Ralph Rampersad passed away peacefully at Health Sciences Centre on June 7, 2020 at the age of 82. He managed Parkinson’s Disease just as he lived his life; with grace, dignity and independence. He continued to cook delicious food for friends and family until his passing.

 

Ralph was born in Dow Village, Trinidad and was the eldest son of Ramyad and Rajwant Rampersad. He immigrated to Winnipeg in 1960 and worked for CP Rail, then as an orderly before studying to be an Electrical Engineering Technologist. He had a long and fulfilling career at Manitoba Hydro where he enjoyed working as an electrical transmission line planner, making lifelong friends along the way. Ralph retired from Hydro after finding two new loves: Eleanor who became his life partner for 23 years and the Argentine Tango. His two loves intertwined in a beautiful and spiritual way.

 

Ralph was known to all as a gentle and generous soul who lived a full life. He will be remembered for his many skills and ingenious but practical ways of doing things born out of acute observation and a deep understanding of the world around him. Through detailed self-study and practice Ralph had the skills of a carpenter, electrician, mechanic, beekeeper, magician, dancer, accountant, cook and gardener but what he loved most were the simple things in life: family, friends and food. Offering his many talents and wisdom, he was always there whenever anyone needed any kind of support or guidance.

 

Ralph was predeceased by his parents, brothers Roy and Krishna, and his sister Sumintra. He will be deeply missed by his partner Eleanor; daughter Indira, grandchild Nathaniel; daughter Tanya (Zvonimir), and son Christopher (Susan); his sisters Indira, Leela, Scilla, Sue, Tara, brothers Rajen and Randolph; as well as Eleanor’s children Sue, Jon (Amanda) and grandchildren Liviah and Zakk. He will also be missed by the many loving friends, nephews and nieces and the extended Gauthier family - Mary Jane, Cathy, Leonard, and Donald.  Ralph’s ashes will be scattered on the Gauthier family farm in Fisher Branch as per his wishes.

 

The celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at a later date when COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed. The family requests that instead of flowers, donations be made to Parkinson Canada in Ralph’s memory.