Priestman, Ralph Victor
Major Ret’d, The Royal Canadian Regiment

Passed away, suddenly and unexpectedly, at the Ottawa Heart Institute on Wednesday May 25, 2016 at the age of 71 years surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Elizabeth (Matthews) Priestman, whom he adored. They were married for 46 years and were rarely apart.

Loving father of Cathy Priestman (Michael Rafter) and Paul Priestman (Sharon Priestman). He was so proud of both of his children and he loved sharing their successes with his family, friends and even random strangers.

Survived by his sisters Nancy Grodesky and Marie Virag and his brother Raymond Priestman and pre-deceased by his brother Ken Priestman. Ralph loved his family deeply and he enjoyed so many wonderful times with them stretching from Linden Street all the way to Florida.

Ralph was a caring grandfather of Matthew, Emily, Jack, Georgia and Charlie. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved hearing their stories, spending special time with each one of them and they loved spending time with him, too. He offered guidance and advice, strength and laughter and most of all love, to each one of them on every occasion they were together.

Ralph was many things. He was a proud member of the Regiment. He was kind and generous. He was incredibly loyal and honest. At times, he was uncomfortably open and he never worried about embarrassing himself or others. He was joyful and charismatic. He was a hero and mentor to many. He was an amazing host and he was, by far, always a gentleman.

He travelled the world, leaving a positive impact everywhere he went. He took the idea of “never pass a fault” very seriously and worked every day to contribute to the well-being of others.

A military graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 at the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces (located at Beechwood Cemetery), 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, ON. All friends and family are welcome and asked to gather from 1:30 p.m. at the main entrance of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre. Dress for serving military is 1A (medals).

Ralph was happiest when surrounded by people he loved, whether marking an event or just ringing in happy hour at 5:00 p.m. With this in mind, a reception will follow from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the Canadian War Museum, 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, ON. Everyone is welcome to attend.

In memoriam and in lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to Vets Canada (Veterans Emergency Transitions Services – www.vetscanada.org). Ralph believed so strongly in helping others. It was core to his being. This organization helps veterans stand tall and he would be honoured to continue to support his extended family.