Rolf Erhard Hillesheim

Ralph was born in Germany and came to Canada at the age of 8. He moved on to what has become in our minds, a legendary street - Withrow Ave. Among the cast of characters that lived on that street, was the love of his life, his wife Susan. Throughout his teenage years he developed a love of music and sports. When we think about our dad’s high school years, three things come to mind: trombone, basketball, and an avid social life. In their 20s, Ralph and Susan had some adventures before they settled down. Their stories of trips to Spain and Mexico in the 70s always sound so vastly different from the travel we know today! Ralph was always someone you could count on to fix something. From electrical to plumbing to constructing, he was our man! He renovated our cottage and the two houses we lived in, with the help of close friends and family, and without the help of YouTube - incredible! Something else Ralph will be remembered for: he liked to party. From the albums full of photos from the 70s and 80s to the cottage parties we remember growing up, our dad liked to have a good time! The Beach Boys, Motown, Disco, Pavarotti (yes Pavarotti), and later on Jimmy Buffet, have been constants in the soundtrack of his life. Ralph was known for his jovial temperament. Often seen sitting on the front porch, Belmont in hand (younger days), he would chat with anyone and everyone. Ralph had a deep love for his family, but he had another love too, DisneyWorld. From the rides and the food to the impeccable grounds and cleanliness, Disney World was a happy place for him. In the twilight of his life, Ralph traded Carlsberg for red wine, and became a golfer and a theatre goer - a regular at Flemingdon Golf Club, Mirvish productions, the TSO, and Jack Astors. He loved his grandchildren dearly, and could often be seen at soccer games, sports tournaments, and ballet recitals. Ralph was also blessed with the most incredible neighbours. The street he has lived on for the past thirty years is more than just a street—it is a true community. The kindness, laughter, and friendship shared there created a circle of support that has been invaluable. A special thank you to Dr. Bin, Dr. Vlaovic, Dr. Siddiqui, and the staff at Michael Garron Hospital. A warm and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Tirkos from the South East Toronto Family Health Team. Ralph was very grateful for your support and care. To Reza from New Era Pharmacy, thank you for your advice and friendship. The help and support from the staff at the Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care and Ontario at Home team was greatly appreciated. In the end, Ralph was treated with great respect and dignity from the staff at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home. Ralph spent his final days surrounded by the love, support, and laughter of his three favourite girls and his pets. He wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. He will be remembered for his fun-loving nature, epic stories, and hilarious use of expressions. What would he say about making his exit at age 77? Better than a kick in the ass with a frozen shoe!