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BORN
1951
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Ralph Bullough Obituary
It is with profound sadness that I announce the death of my husband Ralph Stephen Bullough. He was born August 26, 1951 and attended Port Arthur Collegiate Institute and Lakehead University where he completed three degrees in Geology, Science/Math and Education. He had an infinite zest for knowledge and continued to nurture that desire to learn throughout his life. He always had a couple of books on the go and read widely on a broad range of topics. He followed politics, world news and history and could easily communicate proficiently in any number of areas. He was a natural leader and comfortable speaking with anyone, always willing to share his knowledge and experiences whether with individuals or through his extensive volunteer work. After a brief period in the teaching profession he began employment with Bombardier in 1979 and worked as a Tool and Die maker, retiring after thirty five years of service. He was active in their apprenticeship program and prided himself on giving his best and mentoring new hires as they began their careers.
From an early age Ralph had a strong connection with the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, hunting, cross country skiing and working with his uncles in their logging business. He greatly treasured memories from the epic canoe trip he took with his friend one summer when they paddled from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg. He was always up for an adventure.
Ralph's other passion in life was gardening. He was recently presented with his 30 year pin acknowledging his contributions to the Master Gardener Program. He served on the executive committees of this organization locally, provincially and internationally. He was similarly involved in the Canadian Rose Society and a long-time member of the Thunder Bay Horticultural Society. He enjoyed all types of gardening but had a particular passion for growing roses as evidenced by his wonderful rose garden showcasing dozens of varieties. An unknown author once said, "I didn't want someone who would buy me roses. I wanted someone who would plant them knowing I would be there when they blossomed." This was my Ralph.
Ralph and I (Barb Friday) were married in 1983 and he was my loving partner, my foundation, my everything. He embodied traits which made him so special: patience, calmness, respectfulness and having an optimistic attitude towards life. He was not afraid of hard work and had the ability to find solutions to almost any problem. It was extremely rare for him to give up on a challenge and even rarer for him to lose his temper. He could calm a contentious situation and mediate a resolution. He enjoyed socializing with his many long-time friends and particularly looked forward to his Wednesday morning "breakfast meetings" with fellow Bombardier retirees at Niva's Restaurant where all manner of world issues were debated.
Ralph was predeceased by his parents Reginald and Sally Bullough and is survived by his sister Marlene (Tim Black) and brother David (Trudy Tallon). Also left to mourn are in laws Susan (Chris) Bailey, Bill Friday, John (Cindy) Friday and Patrick Friday (Beverley Babcock).
Cicero the Roman Philosopher best cited Ralph's view on life: "If you have a garden and a library you have everything you need".
Cremation has taken place and there will not be any service. Arrangements are in care of Northwest Funeral Alternative. If so desired, donations to either The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory (c/o Sharon Sidlar, 346 Syndicate Ave. N, Thunder Bay P7C3W3) or the Thunder Bay and District Master Gardeners (332 Crossbow St., Thunder Bay P7G1C3) would be appreciated.
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Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Bullough
Sponsored by Northwest Funeral Alternative.
12 Entries
Jim Bailey
June 10, 2020
Dear Barb,
We were extremely sad to hear that Ralph had passed away. Both Tarja and I wish to pass on our condolences.
Tarja and I have spoken often about what a wonderful person Ralph was. He was such an amazing person to talk to at family gatherings; so knowledgeable about so many things. The many activities in which he was involved helped make Thunder Bay a greener, more beautiful place to live. He believed in what he was doing and it showed.
We know Raph's quiet struggle with illness was difficult and we want you to know our thoughts are with you.
Ralph still feels very close to us, through good, strong memories.
Jim Bailey and Tarja Kiviranta
Lorne Taylor
June 10, 2020
Our sincere sympathy with the passing of Ralph far too soon. Ralph became a good friend and neighbour to us over the last few years. He was always ready to help and listen to others, always working his best for people in our rural area. He will be missed greatly by many of us who always enjoyed our opportunities to share his understanding of issues in our township. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Barb at this time.
Barbra Stock
June 9, 2020
As another signature on the Letters Patent and Master Gardener who helped in the formation of MGOI
I remember Ralph as a kind thoughtful man, who was always at the front in calming the many problems that arose with the start of such a large organization. Ralph was always willing to go the extra mile, always giving MGOI his knowledge, support and time.
I didn't know Ralph socially, but his contribution and support to MGOI will not be forgotten
Ren Duinker and Barbra Stock
June 9, 2020
On behalf of all of us, especially Barbra Stock (who worked along side Ralph when Master Gardeners of Ontario being set up in 1998), we would like to express our profound sadness to hear of Ralph's death. He was a giant in Master Gardeners and his kindness and mentor ship to so many of us will always be remembered.
Prince Edward County Master Gardeners
Ozzie Di Stefano
June 9, 2020
My deepest condolences for your loss.
KarennLewthwaite
June 7, 2020
Hi Barb! My sister, Kathy just phoned to advise of Ralphs death. I am so sorry for your loss - his obituary was a beautiful tribute to
his very full and rich life. Although my memories of Ralph only involved my childhood years plus seeing and chatting with him at my Dads event 14 plus years ago, I can only imagine the loss you are experiencing and I hope that wonderful memories help sustain you in the coming months. Please extend my sympathies to Marlene and David. Sincerely, Karen Lewthwaite (Bullough).
M. Pope
June 7, 2020
Dear Barb. My sincere condolences on the passing of your life partner and best friend. I know that loss well and the pain that follows. I have no remedy, only faith that some day the journey with those we have loved and loss will continue.
Lenore Milani
June 7, 2020
Barb, my deepest condolences to you and family. You are in my thoughts.
Darlene McNeil
June 6, 2020
I am sorry to hear of Ralphs passing. Unfortunately as cousins we did not see one another. We did meet up years ago for a short visit and then I know he and his wife attended my brothers family get together at Pearl. I was unable to get there. My condolences to you Barb and Marlene and David. Darlene McNeil (Bullough). Daughter of Ernie Bullough.
Julie-Ann White
June 6, 2020
Ralph was a treasure, full of knowledge and always willing to share it with everybody who asked. I always enjoyed his presentations and left with a wealth of great information. He had so much passion for gardening and took pride in having the ability to do things himself. He will truly be missed. May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Kalvin Korpela
June 6, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Bullough family. I remember Ralph very well from P.A.C.I and through the occasional visit to the family camp at Northern Lights Lake. Ralph was a friend, an effective communicator, a knowledgeable person, and a citizen who actively cared for people and the community. He will be deeply missed.
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Memorial Events
for Ralph Bullough
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Northwest Funeral Alternative428 Balmoral Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7C 5G8