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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
EDWARDS, Ralph Howard (Ed) - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather and husband Ralph Edwards, 77 of Halifax on May 9, 2023. He died peacefully surrounded by his loving family.
Ralph was born in Kingsville Ontario in 1946 and left home at the young age of 16 to start his career in the Navy which spanned 20 plus years. After retiring from the Navy he worked for the DND Fire Department and the Canadian Coast Guard.
Ralph wore many titles throughout his life: Husband, Dad, Grandfather, Brother, Friend and Coach. He began coaching ball at Highland Park in the mid 1970’s and coached many of the same players for 15 years. It was his passion and he dedicated countless hours, evenings and weekends at the ball field with his players, wanting them to be the best they could be. He was always most proud of his players accomplishments, and it was truly meaningful when he was able to present awards to his players 40 years later at the Hall of Fame induction.
In addition to ball, Ralph had a strong passion for playing hockey. He would be on the ice at every opportunity. He played for many teams while he was in the Navy as well as local teams throughout the city.
But of all Ralph’s passions, his greatest was that for his family. He loved them deeply and his happiest moments were when they were all together. Ralph never missed a single event for his kids or grandkids whether it was a national softball tournament or his grandkids skating lessons, he was there for it all.
As did being a father, being a grandfather came naturally to Ralph. His grandkids loved to be around him because they knew there’d be lots of laughter and shenanigans. His grandkids brought him so much joy and happiness.
Ralph had a sense of humor like no other. He loved to make people laugh and tell old family stories. He was very social and enjoyed going out for a cold beer and listening to old country music. He was a proud Legion member.
Ralph is survived by his wife Beverly Edwards; son Glen; daughter Melissa Dort (Jeff); granddaughters McKenna and Addalyn; grandson Henry; brother Clifford Edwards (Kingsville), and many nieces and nephews.
Aside from his parents the late Glen and Margaret Edwards, Ralph was predeceased by his ex-wife and lifelong friend Bernice Edwards; sister Edith; brothers Gerry and Harold.
Ralph’s friends and family are invited to share happy memories and celebrate his life on Wednesday May 17th, 2023 from 2-4pm and again from 7-9pm at the Atlantic Funeral Home, 6552 Bayers Road, Halifax. There will be a Legion tribute taking place at 3pm. Burial to take place at a later date.
Donations in Ralph’s memory may be made to Highland Park Minor Softball.
Special thanks to the Outpatient and Inpatient Palliative Care teams at the VG Hospital.
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