It is with heavy hearts that the family of Ralph Pretty announce his passing at Bluewater Health on December 13, 2023 at the age of 83. Loving husband of 61 years to Shirley Marie (Scaife), dear father to Patricia of Corunna, James (Darlene) of Woodstock and Tammy (James) of Dutton. Cherished Papa to Caitlyn, Ava, Tessa, Kira, Colin, James and Allison. Great Grandpapa to Elijah. He is survived by his older brother John, younger brother and twin Roger and a large extended family. Predeceased by brothers Harold, Robert, David, and sister Jean.
Ralph was born to Ralph Sr. and Gladys Pretty of Sombra Township. He grew up on the family farm near Wilkesport and attended a one room schoolhouse in elementary years. He had to walk up-hill both ways in the snow to get there. Ralph graduated from Wallaceburg District Secondary School and attended college at Ridgetown for a time before moving into the millwright trade. He worked for several years on various construction projects, locally and abroad before becoming his own boss and business owner. He was a proud member of Millwright Local 1592. In earlier years, he spent his leisure time reading, helping with community projects as a member of the Optimist Club of Moore, and cutting grass with his beloved John Deere garden tractor. He could often be found holding court in his garage, sharing stories from his various work travels and just generally shooting the breeze. In later years, Ralph could be found in his office with a cup of coffee, an ever present newspaper and the daily crossword puzzle. Ralph always had a twinkle in his eye, a poem to recite or a joke to tell. He will be dearly missed. Special thank you to all the nursing and support staff at Bluewater Health, Dr. Mark Mousseau and Dr. Allison Crombeen for their care and kindness. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled for a later date. Donations in Ralph’s memory can be made to the Canadian Lung Association or the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia-Lambton (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
