WILLIAM DAVIDSON RALPH

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WILLIAM DAVIDSON RALPH 1916 - 2003 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father and grandfather on Saturday, November 1, 2003 at the Health Sciences Centre. Dad was predeceased by his wife Patricia (nee Whiting) in 1988. He will be lovingly remembered by his sons, Patrick (Patti) and Bill (Judy) grandchildren, Mark, Paul, Kelly and Sarah; brother-in-law Michael (Sheila) Whiting of Saskatoon; cousins, Marg and Merle and good friends, Betty and Claire. Bill was born February 19, 1916 in Winnipeg, the son of William J. and Ann Ralph. He spent his early years enjoying the beaches of Sandy Hook, Victoria Beach and Camp Stephens - Lake of the Woods. He graduated from Gordon Bell High School and received his B.A. degree from the University of Manitoba in 1937 and shortly thereafter entered the Life Insurance business. Ardently interested in sports, he served as the first Membership Chairman of the Puffin Ski Club in 1939 and later married Patricia Whiting a founder of the Club. Dad joined the armed forces in 1941 and served overseas for four years returning from Italy in 1946. During the next 30 years he was immersed in the Insurance Management business having been Provincial Manager in both Manitoba and Ontario for Cooperative Life Insurance Co. and manager for Crown Life Insurance Co. until 1976. He then formed his own General Insurance Agency now called Union Insurance Brokers Ltd. Although continuously active in business, the real focus and joy of Dads life was his love of wife and family. He was always happiest sharing time with family and friends, whether travelling or enjoying the many summers at Falcon Lake and Lake of the Woods. We will miss you Dad, and we salute you! The family is very grateful for the best efforts of the emergency staff of the Health Sciences Centre. Cremation has taken place and at the request of the deceased, no formal ceremony will take place. A private family celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made in Bills memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 200-6 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: EDWARD J. COUTU LTD. 680 Archibald Street 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 05, 2003