RALPH WILD

It is with heavy hearts that the family advise of the passing of our dear father. Ralph Wild died on September 1, 2023, just 26 days short of his 105th birthday.

Ralph Wild was born in Rotherham, England on September 27, 1918.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents (Lily & Walter), and two sisters (Nora & Ena) and his loving wife of 57 years, Myrla. He is survived by his three children, Barry Wild (Ingrid Schram), Karen Kumka (Irwin Kumka) & Craig Wild (Cathi Wild), grand children, Nathan Wild (Crystal Courtland), Dr. Gillian Kumka (Peter van den Elshout), Bryce Kumka (Lee-Anne Kumka), Calin Wild (Christina Wild), Chaye Wild (Tanner Prasek) along with thirteen great grandchildren.

Instead of waiting for conscription into the British Army, Ralph volunteered to serve in the Royal Air Force. He participated in the Battle of Britain, assigned to ground crew, servicing Hawker Hurricane fighters as they returned from battle. To this day, the Battle of Britain is considered to be the most significant air battle ever fought. In addition to servicing fighter aircraft, Ralph worked as an instrument repairer.

In December of 1940, Ralph was shipped overseas to Canada as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. He was stationed at the air base near Carberry, Manitoba. After studying navigation, and graduating first in his class, he mustered for Air Crew. The top two students in each class received commissions as Flying Officers.

During the occasional weekend leave, Ralph would travel into Winnipeg. Many Winnipeg families were very gracious in hosting airmen. On one visit, he met the love of his life, Myrla Ruth Easton. They married on June 12,1943. After completing his navigation course, he was deployed back to England where he would navigate a Halifax bomber, flying missions over occupied Europe. In February of 1945 his wife, Myrla, would join him in England along with their new born son, Barry. 

Following the end of the war, Ralph would complete his university training. Later a decision was made to immigrate to Canada to be with Myrla’s family in Winnipeg.

In Winnipeg, he would start his insurance career where he would work in claims management for two general insurance companies. He would end his career in the position of Claims Manager. He participated in an insurance organization known as Blue Goose where he rose to the role of Most Loyal Gander of the Winnipeg Pond.

Myrla and Ralph spent their retirement years, in summer, at the family cottage at Gull Lake and their winter months in Texas. While in Texas, he became a Shriner and participated in many events helping children with disabilities.

Following the passing of Myrla in 2000, Ralph went on to spend his winters in England, living with his sister, Nora Hague. He was fortunate to have his nephews and spouses, Graham Hague (Judy Hague), David Hague & Howard Hague (Jill Hague) to participate in family gatherings and outings in Sheffield. 

In 2015, Ralph moved into assisted living at River Ridge Retirement Residence where he actively participated in many social events. Ralph was a very good dancer and was popular with the ladies as their dance partner.

Reluctantly, at the age of 97, Ralph gave up driving after never having had a speeding ticket or any other driving violation during his entire lifetime of driving.

In December of 2022, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal at a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislature. He was the oldest Manitoban to receive the medal and he was given a standing ovation by the audience in attendance.

Ralph was an active sporting enthusiast with English Football (Sheffield United), Canadian Football (Winnipeg Blue Bombers) and tennis being his favorites.

A celebration of Ralph Wild’s life is planned for Tuesday August 6, 2024 at Kildonan Community Church located at 2373 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba. The service will start at 2:00pm followed by some light refreshments. All are welcome. For those who cannot attend in person, it will be possible to view a live streaming of the service at KCCWinnipeg.ca

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ralph Wild’s favorite charity, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet in his name.

Ralph will be missed by his family and friends. His friendly smile and positive attitude will always be remembered. 

Now rest in peace!

Ralph’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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