Ralph Alan Yates
November 15, 2011
November 15th, 2011 at University Hospital, peacefully with Betty at his side. Ralph had a great life. He was very proud of their four children, Linda, Dave, Pam and Jim and their families. He and Betty were blessed with 62 happy, healthy years together. They enjoyed their daily walks, fun bridge games, travelling with special friends and family gatherings at their cottage. Life was good. Memorial Service will be held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Friday, November 25th, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. with reception to follow service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice will be appreciated.
Leave a tribute for Ralph Alan Yates
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Dear Betty: You and Ralph came into my life when I married Susan, almost 40 years ago – can it be that long? I always think of you together, having fun! Ralph was introduced to me as "Good, kind Mr Yates" but he was so much more: he was Wonderful Mr Yates. And that was just as a person – never mind his successful business career. What a joy and a privilege to have known you both. Much love – Don
"Good Kind Mr. Yates" has been a part of my life since I was four years old. His smile, his laughter, his warmth will remain with me always.
To Pam So saddenned by the news...prompted a long walk in the forest this morning in Ralph's memory. It is of course barren at this time of year - the inevitable signs everywhere that the bounty of the growing season is winding down. Cliché ? Cycle repeat: leaves have fallen, trees are bare, milkweed pods have burst - their downy seeds wind scattered, same for the cattails. Small creatures still hard at work scurrying, gathering, stowing... Several fallen trees that didn't make it through the hot summer storms. The predominant tone is sepia although the longer you spend here the more multi-hued it all becomes. Subtle color gradations do appear. And it is only at this time of year when all is bare that you can see the berries. To happen on them is such a vibrant gift. Variety of types and colors - reds, whites, burgundys, pinks... Never all together just a few strays here and there. They are decorative and inedible and BEAUTIFUL (not unlike shoes)!!! The sun breaks through the clouds and there is an inviting light beam ahead. I like to think this was how it was for him when came the time of passage from here to there. Solitary, yet at one with all that was, hand in hand with those who mattered! Thinking of him, all of you and yours... xoxo Louise and Pierre-Paul
Holding a martini high; here’s to you Ralph! Hip, hip hooray! hip, hip hooray! Hip, hip hooray! for a great life very well lived; if we all could be so blessed. I will always remember your sense of humour, respectful spirit, and wise guidance. Wait a minute, it’s not 5 o’clock yet….oh well.
Dear Betty: I was sadened to learn about Ralph. Just wanted you to know that I would attend the Memorial Service but have a commitment at that time that I cannot change. I always admired Ralph for his dedication to the Board of Directors. His contribution to HLA was outstanding!
I have known Ralph, and Betty, since I was two years old - and for that, I feel truly fortunate and blessed. I have many wonderful memories of time spent with the Yates. Ralph had the gift of making everyone around him - children and adults alike - feel important. He was always enthusiastic, interested, happy and genuine. When I picture him, it's with a huge grin on his face, and his arms reaching out for a big hug. He will be greatly missed.
~ Kathleen (Dalgetty) Clark