Tribute

Ralph Norman Ashton passed away on Dec. 23rd after a long battle (struggle) against cancer.  Predeceased by his parents Thomas and Mabel Ashton, Ralph leaves behind his loving wife of 65 years, Louise and their five children, Tommy, Heather, Mary-Lou, Janice and Robert, as well as grandchildren Sierra and Shyanne.

Ralph was born in Toronto, Ontario on November 5th 1928.  Educated at Northern Electric and was employed by Bell Canada for his whole career as an engineer in the communication field.  Upon retirement, Ralph and Louise moved to Powell River in 1983.

In his retirement, Ralph volunteered with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxilliary Unit 55 in Powell River.  From Crewman, he aspired to Unit Leader, Director and then President of the Pacific Region.  His compassion towards his fellow man, life and the wilderness was second to none.  Geology, hunting, camping and above all fishing.  From Lake Nipigon to Honduras to the Arctic and many waters of BC. Ralph had a passion for catching fish while in the great outdoors.  Ralph, with his many interests, always listened with genuine intrigue as to what others were doing.  Ralph's intelligence, wry wit and love of learning were exemplar.  He loved cooking and associated gadgetry, computor technology and compelling documentaries.  He never stopped learning new things that interested him.

Ralph embraced so many friends and had the gift of making each person feel so valued and special.