Obituary of Ralph Steil

Ralph Arthur Alphonse Steil was born on June 25, 1943, in Killam, AB. He was the fifth of twelve children of Ositha and Herb Steil. He passed away on January 19, 2017, at the age of 73 years surrounded by family. Ralph was a cherished husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle and friend. The sparkle in his eyes and his quick wit brought a smile to everyone he met. As a youngster in Strome, Ralph was known as a quiet yet mischievous boy. He worked with his dad, Herb, as a carpenter from the age of 15 until he was nearly 30, when he moved to the oilfield. A car accident in 1997 left him unable to return to work. Ralph was never very fond of crowds, yet he cherished time with family and close friends. He camped, fished and golfed with friends and family every chance he had. The annual family camp trip and the Steil Open were treasured events. If Ralph wasn’t home, he could usually be found at the rec center or golf course for his daily crib games with the boys. After which he would report his winnings to anyone who asked. Occasionally, Ralph had the urge to take a road trip, which could be a regular egg run, a trip with friends to some casino or even as far as a family trip to Arizona. Ralph will be forever remembered by his loving wife Verna, his daughters Deb (Randy), and Michelle (Trevor), and son James (Crystal). His grandchildren Jessica, Kaylee, Jaida, Jacob, Zoey and great-grandchildren Colt and Rori. Ralph will also be fondly remembered by his sisters, cousins, extended family and friends. He is predeceased by his son Murray (Turbo) Steil and granddaughter Lauren Brodie. His parents, brothers Keith and Vernon, his sister Florence and brothers-in-law Ron, Patty, Ed and Jim. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25, 2017, at the Killam Community Hall. Memorial donations in memory of Ralph may be made to the Sedgewick Fire Department or a charity of your choice. Please join the family for a drink on Ralph following the service.