Peacefully in his sleep, Ralph Andrew Monteith passed away at Victoria Hospital in London on Sunday, August 17, 2025, in his 75th year. Ralph was the loving husband of Annemary (Timmermans) of 47 years. Proud and dedicated father of Ryan (Darcy) and Jenna (David). Doting grandfather to Maddox, Heidi, Audrey, Hazel, Lucas, Jack, Hayden and Sophia. Pre-deceased by his parents, Roy and Constance Monteith of Uniondale and his sister, Sharon Kemp of London. Beloved brother of Grant (Deirdre) of Bluewater and Dennis (Linda) of Hamilton.

 Ralph was born in Stratford, Ontario and grew up on his family farm in Lakeside, Ontario. He spent his childhood playing in the woods with his siblings, caring for the animals and helping with farm chores such as bailing hay. He began his first “job” at the age of 12, making apple cider and selling it for $0.10/gallon. As a teenager, he spent much time in St. Marys with friends. Ralph’s lifelong career in sales began in Dundas, Ontario at the age of 16 when he began working at a shoe store. In 1971, Anne and Ralph met at In Step Shoes in London while Anne was shopping with her family. A week later, Ralph picked her up for their first date. Ralph and Anne enjoyed time with family and friends going to see live music and dances, and attending social gatherings. They married in 1978. Throughout their marriage, they enjoyed travelling, sometimes just the two of them, and also with their children. Ralph spent many years in shoe sales, eventually opening his own store, Monte’s Shoes. Ralph transitioned into a career in car sales which lasted many years until he returned to his roots and opened his final shoe business in Ingersoll. Ralph had many visitors who stopped to say hi to his canine co-worker, Kobi. 

Ralph was an industrious man with an incredible work ethic that lasted right to the end. He spent the last decade of his life with his grandchildren, watching his family grow. Ralph enjoyed biking and spending time at his favourite beach in Southampton. At the end of the day, he could often be found building a bonfire in his beautiful yard. He especially loved to do this on Thursday nights, when he could watch antique cars drive by on the way to the car show. Ralph greatly appreciated nature and spent much time in solitude hiking through the woods. He took every opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and he never missed the chance to share with them how much he loved them. The grandchildren will miss laughing with grandpa and mostly, his embrace. 

Ralph will be remembered for his witty sense of humour and his distinct ability to recount stories with detail bringing people and their history to life. Ralph’s extensive antique collection was a symbol of his passion for history. He was passionate about politics and always welcomed a debate. Ralph will be immensely missed by his family and long time friends. 

The family is thankful to the staff of Victoria Hospital for their compassion and support in his final weeks battling cancer.

A celebration of life for Ralph’s family and friends will be held on September 13th, 2:00-4:00, at 31112 Fingal Line, Fingal, On. 

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ralph are asked to consider the Canadian Cancer Society.(55 St. Clair Ave., Suite 300 Toronto ON M4V 2Y7) McFarlane and Roberts Funeral Home 2240 Wharncliffe Rd S London entrusted with the arrangements. 519 652 2020