It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph. A true North Van boy, born, schooled, married, and raised his family there. Throughout his life, he was surrounded by his loving family: his wife Joan; daughter Kelly (Brian); son Doug; grandchildren Taylor (Nicki), Brandon (Nicole), Cameron, Austin (Megan), and Laura (Jason); and great-grandchildren Porter, Presley, and Weston.
Ralph and Joan were childhood sweethearts at North Van High. August 4th would have been their 70th wedding anniversary.
Ralph had an amazing career as a photographer at The Vancouver Sun for 40+ years. He won several awards, including a National Press Award. One of his specialties was sports that included Canucks, Lions, Whitecaps, Muhammad Ali, and many more. He pioneered the netcam in 1971, getting the approval from the NHL. He photographed many entertainers from Elvis to Elton, as well as the collapse of the Second Narrows Bridge in the 50s.
He was a huge fan of horseracing at Hastings Park for more than 60 years and was nicknamed Railbird.
Many thanks to the doctors and nurses at Lions Gate Hospital 4 East for their amazing care.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, August 4th, 1:00 - 4:00 pm at Boal Chapel
1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver.
As Ralph would say, "Just one more."
