KETEL, Ralph
Posted: January 12th, 2017
KETEL, Ralph John
1954 – 2017
Ralph John Ketel, 62, of Peachland BC, formerly of Pine River Manitoba, and Picture Butte Alberta passed away on January 9, 2017 at Hospice House in Kelowna BC. Ralph lived a full, rich life. He was sorry to leave his wife, Gwynn, and family so early, but thankful to be at rest in the Lord.
Ralph was born April 4, 1954 in Smithers, BC, and shortly after his birth, his parents, John and Annie Ketel, took him along when the family returned to southern Alberta. Ralph had an energetic, inquisitive, friendly personality, enjoying visits from anyone who happened to stop by. Early in his life he developed a passion for horses; raising, and training many throughout his life. He always had a strong draw towards the cattleman life style – he drank his coffee black and wore his jeans blue. Ralph left high school prior to graduating so he could farm with his father. He was a life-long learner and became a very proficient dairy farmer and then cattle rancher. His cattle knowledge was well respected and was often called on by neighbors to help with difficult situations.
He kept a simple, profound relationship with his Almighty God, trusting in the glorious mystery of Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour which stirred his soul and gave him strength and peace.
His community involvement was appreciated wherever he lived. Ralph had a special heart for local youth. He was regularly involved as a leader in the local boys club, community youth group, high school rodeo, and as a Bible Camp supporter. Ralph loved the outdoors, the mountains, the prairies, the Manitoba bush, the wildlife and he shared it with family and friends through many hikes, skiing, miles of fencing chores, cattle working, trail rides, and by bringing home wildflowers for Gwynn.
Ralph and Gwynn were blessed with 38 1/2 years of marriage. Together they accepted the wonderful, sometimes challenging joy of raising a large family of six sons and one daughter.
Predeceased by: infant son Jonathan, father John Ketel, brother-in-law Jim Hoogeveen, father-in-law Harry Hoogeveen, daughter-in-law Ashley Bell-Thurlow.
He will be lovingly remembered by: wife Gwynn; children and grandchildren Sid & Melissa, Max; Dave & Shannon, Micah, Noah; Rob & Jennica; Jack & Shelby; Crystal; Kyle Thurlow, Brendon; Scott Thurlow, Shayla, Madyson, Kenzley. His dear Mother Annie Ketel. Mother-in-law Lydia Hoogeveen. Siblings Marty & Jacky, Andrew & June, Margaret. Siblings-in-law Lois, Karen & Dan, Daryl & Bonnie, Joy & Ben, Jayne & Tony, along with a large extended family and friends around the world.
The funeral service will be held at 2pm on January 15, at the Everden Rust Funeral Home in Kelowna, BC, and he will be laid to rest at Peachland Cemetery.
Memorial donations in Ralph’s name can be made to Maple Springs Bible Camp in Peachland, BC or the Bible camp of your choice.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting everdenrust.com
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family for their loss
Andrew and family: we are so sorry for your loss. It was wonderful though to read that your brother had a deep faith in God. May all of you find comfort that only God can give.
We came to know Ralph and Gwen and the Ketel Family when our eldest daughter , Shannon, married David, Ralph and Gwens son. Ralph was always hospitable , and friendly towards us , and we enjoyed our grand parenthood of two lovely grandchildren given to us by David and Shannon, Micah Gail and Noah John… Grandpa and grandma Ketel were the country grandparents , and we, Grandpa and Gramma Doleman were the town grandparents as. Micah and Noah would explain to us.
Ralph’s love for farm/ranch life took root in our grandchildren enriching their lives . Noah , at the present age of 101/2 could probably run a ranch if given th chance .
We know they will miss Granoa Ketel, and that tall the memories they ah e will only grow more sweeter as time moves us all forward.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gwen , and Ralph’s mom Mrs Ketel Sr.. as well as to the Ketel family , and loved ones.
Thinking and praying of you and your family at this time. The Bischke family
Sorry to hear. of your great loss Gwynn. My condolences to you and your family ?
WE extend our condolences to you Gwen and to your family in the loss of Ralph.
We pray for strength for you and that God will continue to sustain you in the days, weeks and years ahead.