It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father and grandfather.
With family by his side, Ralph, age 73, passed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022, after a short battle with cancer.
Ralph leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 52 years Adrienne; son Billy (Darcy); daughter Cindy (John); and grandchildren Cody (Amy), Hunter, Maya, Logan and Halia; as well as his sisters Laurie (John) and Anne (Marvin); numerous nieces, nephews; and, last but not least, his dog Sandy. Ralph was predeceased by his eldest son James “Jimmy” Olson; his parents Art and Thelma Olson; sister Vivian; brothers Ronnie and Gordon.
The fourth of six siblings, Ralph was born September 27, 1948, in Rainy River, Ontario, and raised on the Olson Homestead in Tovell Township (Arbor Vitae) area. He left home at an early age and worked in the logging industry from Prince George, B.C., to Dryden, Ont. On July 11, 1970, Ralph married his life long partner Adrienne. In 1974 they built their family home on Little Grassy River in Bergland where they raised their three children.
As well as his love for his family, Ralph also loved nature, he was an early riser and was known to be out of the house before 5:00 a.m. every day. Regardless of the weather he was always outside enjoying the countryside and the wildlife in his backyard. He also loved reading, watching the news and staying well-informed of current events and politics. He had a great sense of humour and was always happy to share a joke or riddle with his grandkids.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that a donation be made to the Palliative Care Unit at La Verendrye Hospital where Ralph and family were given the best of care and kindness.
A private service will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd. Emo, Ont.
