Ralph Rogers
ROGERS, Ralph – 81, Valley, passed away suddenly at his home on Thursday, June 22, 2017.
He was raised with an appreciation for nature and the land, and had a passion for all living things, especially his love for dogs. He was happiest when he was surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors either at his camp in Riversdale or the family cottage in River John.
An avid hunter and fisherman, Ralph travelled and loved to explore the world around him, spending time up North with his son in British Columbia on various canoeing expeditions and in the Maritimes on fishing trips with his father. His love of gardening was passed down to him by his father and it was not uncommon for Ralph to maintain several gardens at once. Whatever was harvested was shared with friends and family and would end up in a delicious meal or preserves to be enjoyed later in the winter.
Ralph had a passion for watching and playing sports and remained active well into his later years skiing, playing hockey, curling, fourwheeling and snowmobiling.
Ralph had a special relationship growing up with his grandparents (Sydney and Margaret Rogers) that he continued with his own grandchildren. An active grandparent, he enjoyed sharing his love of nature with Sam and Ella and loved to watch them excel in hockey, racing, soccer and other sports.
He enjoyed reading and sharing anything new he had learned with others. Once Ralph caught on to this thing called the Internet, a whole new world opened up to him as well as a lot of delicious new recipes.
Ralph enjoyed working as a counsellor at Nova Youth Training Centre until his retirement. He was a member of Brunswick Street United Church, associate member of Royal Canadian Legion, Branch # 26, Truro, former member of Truro Fellowship Lodge #112, member of Truro Curling Club and a former member of East Mountain Golf Club and Ski Atlantic Seniors Club.
Ralph was predeceased by his parents, Ethel (Atkinson) and Aubrey Rogers; his daughter, Andrea Joy. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Shirley (Rector); son, Craig (Stephanie), Onslow, and their children, Samuel and Ella; sister, Joyce Enxing (Bill), Minnesota ; half sister, Carol Atkinson (Leon), Dutch Settlement; half brother, Chris Rogers, Masstown; step-mother, Janet Rogers and their family, Clare Davidson (Gerald), Onslow; Peter Rogers (Michele), Valley; Penny Blackwood (Bert), Lyons Brook; many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall -Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Ralph’s family will receive friends from 6:30-8 p.m., Tuesday, June 27, 2017. Funeral service will held 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 28, 2017, at Brunswick Street United Church, 250 Brunswick Street, Truro, Reverend John Parsons officiating. Reception will follow in the dining hall. Interment in Watson Cemetery, East Prince Street, Truro. Family flowers only. If so desired, donations in Ralph’s memory to Brunswick Street United Church or Watson Cemetery are welcomed.
Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Ralph’s obituary online and selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com.