Ralph L. Nelson
Born: 09 Aprin 1938
Died: 06 September 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Nelson on September 6, 2025, at the age of 87.
Born in Drumheller, Alberta, Ralph was the son of Gustav Nelson and Elsa (Strand), both deceased. He was predeceased by his two sisters and three brothers, and is fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and his sister-in-law Joyce Nelson.
Ralph was first married to Margaret McPherson (deceased), with whom he shared two children: Sandra and Andrew (Michele). In 2002, he remarried Gayle Pautz, gaining a stepdaughter, Jessica (Jacques Cormier), and two cherished grandchildren, James and Jayden Cormier.
A proud veteran, Ralph joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1956 through the VENTURE Program. He trained as a pilot with the U.S. Navy in Pensacola, earning his wings in August 1960. His distinguished service included flying the CS2F-1 Tracker aboard HMCS Shearwater and HMCS Bonaventure. Later, he transitioned to the role of Supply Officer, serving at Shearwater and aboard HMCS Margaree. Ralph concluded his career at National Defence Headquarters, contributing to major capital projects until his retirement in 1998.
After his retirement, Ralph spent many winters in Florida with Gayle and enjoyed traveling around the world. A passionate sports enthusiast, he was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and also cheered for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Edmonton Eskimos.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Perley Health’s veterans’ section for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Perley Health would be deeply appreciated.
A memorial service for Ralph will be held on September 22nd at Beechwood National Memorial Centre (Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services), located at 280 Beechwood Avenue in Ottawa. Visitation will take place from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. A reception will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., with interment to follow at 4:00 p.m.
“My boat struck something deep.
Nothing happened.
Sound, silence, waves.
Nothing happened?
Or perhaps, everything happened
And I’m sitting in the middle of my new life”.
- Juan Ramon Jimenez
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