October 20, 1957 - October 14, 2021
In Loving Memory ~
Ralph was born on October 20, 1957 in Pähl, Germany. He lived in Oberthal until he was seven years old when he moved to Canada in September of 1965 with his mom and little sister Elke. He grew up in Nelson, British Columbia and lived in Vancouver before moving to Alberta where he met his wife Carmen.
Ralph and Carmen were married on November 10, 1978. Together they had eight children which they raised on an acreage west of Stony Plain. Ralph worked on the rigs before starting at the City of Edmonton in 1989 where he worked until he retired in 2014.
Ralph loved spending time outdoors in his yard and went on many fishing and snowmobiling trips over the years. When his kids were younger he was an active hockey dad, spending much of his time at the rink watching his sons on the ice. He was also a huge Oilers fan and loved going to games, attending some Stanley cup games.
Ralph had a passion for music and often went to concerts with his wife and kids. Ralph was an avid reader after retiring with his books of choice being the autobiographies of his favourite rock stars. Ralph loved to have fun and was always up for a good time. His family and friends have many fond memories of times spent with him.
Ralph passed away at home unexpectedly in the afternoon of October 14, 2021. He was outside in his yard raking leaves when he was taken without warning. His death was sudden but it is believed that he left us quickly and did not suffer. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He will always be greatly loved and will never be forgotten.
Ralph is survived by his wife of 42 years Carmen, their eight children: Danny, Jennifer (Nick), David, Cassandra, Gordon (Shandi), Trinity, Eric and Thomas. Eight grandchildren: Michaela, Kaley, Ariellah, Lylli, Nate, Derek, Bryson and Adalynne. His dad Allen, sister Elke (Paul), mother-in-law Ingrid and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his mom Henny and father-in-law Raymond.
A Celebration of Life was held on October 25, 2021 in Spruce Grove, Alberta.