Ralph Albert Lewis

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Lewis our loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. Ralph died suddenly at his home in Sydney on Monday, April 18, 2011, at the age of 61.

Born in Sydney the son of the late Warren and Theresa (Power) Lewis, he was the eldest of 8 children. In his teenage years he worked side by side with his father for Chappell’s Construction. Then, at the age of 19, he joined the Air Force, where he served for 21 years before retiring due to injury at the age of 40. Determined to not submit to his injuries, Ralph kept busy puttering in his garage and yard or helping friends and family with their latest projects. Ralph could turn his hand to any task, and in the eyes of his grandchildren "Poppy could fix anything". His greatest source of joy was his family. Whether it was a shoulder to cry on or a helping hand he was always there for those who needed his help. Ralph was faithful member of St. Joseph's parish and will be missed by many.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Deborah (Martell), and their two children Stacey (Chris) Boutilier, Sydney, and Todd, Grand Prairie, Alberta as well his grandchildren Rhys and Caleb Boutilier, and step grandchildren Adam and Caitlin Boutilier. He is also survived by his stepmother Rose (Gillis) Lewis and his 5 sisters, Anne Philpot (Les Dancsecs), Margaret (Danny) Roach, Mary (Steve) Ash, Warna (David) MacNeil, and Grace Patterson (Dave MacDonald) and 2 brothers Joe (Carol) Lewis and Eddie Lewis (Shelly Lockhart) and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by brother in law Fred (Carol) Martell, and sisters in law Judy Martell, Marie (John) Drohan, Eunice (Clarence) Stang, Marie Nugent and Sally (late Leo) Martell.

Visitation will be held at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel on Monday, April 25, 2-4 & 7-9 pm.. Funeral mass to be celebrated at St Joseph's Church,Tuesday April 26, at 11 am, reception to follow.