Ralph Vincent Jenkins

February 21, 1932 – January 5, 2015

Our jazz man, Ralph Jenkins, played his outro on January 5.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents, Guy and Annie Jenkins; sister Fran Moynagh; brother Howard, and wife Joanne. He is survived by his sons Jim and Jeff Jenkins; daughters Cindy Jenkins (Darren) and Fran Coates (Trevor); grandchildren Dustin Egnell, Joel, Brenlee and Riley Coates; brother-in-law Stan Moynagh; and niece Maureen (Rod).

Ralph was born in Belmont, Manitoba – bedridden for 10 months at a young age, his constant companion at that time was the radio – and so, a musician and music aficionado materialized. Once he picked up his “axe,” the trumpet, he never put it down. He was a bouncy key player as well as a mean trumpeter, and was mostly self-taught. His passion could be felt through performances with the Dixieland Band, The Southern Comfort, New Orleans 4 (among others), and as the official town trumpeter of Dryden (and really anywhere he went). Ralph’s first love was jazz, but he lent his musical fervour to various choirs and bands, assisted high school music programs, and played “The Last Post” and “Reveille” at Remembrance Day services. He enriched the lives of others through music, but also through his kind and fair nature. In his work life, spanning from the Bank of Montreal, Town of Morris, Red River Valley Health District to Patricia Gardens Minimal Care Home (Dryden), he was a respected administrator and friend to many.

Ralph deeply adored his wife, his “Dear Joanie,” for 42 years of marriage, and was a devoted family man to their children and grandchildren. His charm and good humour attracted a wealth of friends whom he greatly cherished.

Ralph also loved to travel, and had many special memories from his trips to Arizona, England, and especially his Mecca: New Orleans, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong’s birthplace.

Over the years, Ralph was fortunate to have many great caregivers. Our sincerest thanks to them all.

A service will be held at Green Acres Funeral Home (Highway #1 East at Navin Road) led by Rev. Mary Lysecki on Monday, Jan.12, 2015 at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10-120 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2.

“Sitting out for a chorus or two, please stay cool and think nice thoughts.” –Ralph

GREEN ACRES

Funeral Home and Cemetery

(204) 222-3241

Condolences may be sent to

www.greenacresfuneralhome.com