NOVEMBER 20, 1934 - August 7, 2017

Peacefully passed away at Carpenter Hospice, Burlington, with his family at his side, on Monday August 7, 2017, at the age of 82, after an extended battle with cancer.

He joins his beloved wife Irmgard who passed away in 2011, and is survived by his son Jason and his wife Lauri, grandchildren Stephen and Bradley, and brothers Gus and Arnold.

Ralph was a loving father, husband, and grandfather. Born on November 20, 1934 to Helene and Adolf Schwandt in Lithuania, he studied botany in his early years. After arriving in Canada in 1956, he began his career at Stelco, and went on to manage a lumber yard, and eventually became a stock broker. He retired in Ancaster in 1996, where he enjoyed the peaceful tranquility of the forest in his backyard. He will be remembered for his unmatched determination, favourite catchphrases "always be prepared!” and “there is always a way!", and always being there to help his friends in times of need. His family would like to extend thanks and appreciation to the nurses and staff at Carpenter Hospice who cared for him in his last weeks to make his life easier.

A Visitation will be at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 1010 Botanical Drive, Burlington (905-527-0405), on Monday August 14th from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Tuesday August 15th at 10:00 a.m. followed by interment at Woodland Cemetery. In Ralph’s memory floral tributes or donations to the Carpenter Hospice would be appreciated by his family. Please sign the Online Book of Condolences at www.baygardens.ca

He will be always on our mind and forever in our hearts.