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RALPH CANTAFIO
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Cantafio on March 9, 2026, at the age of 97. A man of immense vision and tireless energy, Ralph’s impact on his family and his community will be felt for generations.
Family and Legacy
Ralph was the beloved husband of Elvira, his partner and the love of his life, for 74 years. He was the cherished father of Mary, Caroline, and Raff (Laurie); a devoted grandfather to Nicholas and Julia; and loving uncle to many nieces and nephews who carry with them beautiful memories of his life.
He was predeceased by his father, Domenico; his mother, Maria; and his brothers, Guido, Tony, and Giovanino; and is survived by his brother Gregorio; and sister Maria Torchia, in Montreal. Ralph was born in Amato, Italy, but Winnipeg was his lifelong home - a city he loved deeply.
The Father of Modern Soccer
Ralph’s name is synonymous with the growth of soccer in Canada. Arriving in Winnipeg with a vision, he dedicated decades to building the sport from the ground up. As the founder and president of the Winnipeg Fury, he brought professional soccer to the forefront, leading the team to a historic Canadian Soccer League Championship in 1992 - truly remarkable accomplishments.
His leadership extended to the Manitoba Soccer Association and the Canadian Soccer Association, where he served with distinction. His lifelong commitment was honoured with the inductions into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame and the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame. In recognition of his enduring influence, the Ralph Cantafio Soccer Complex stands as a testament to his dream of providing a home for the game he loved.
A Life Well Lived and Italian Heritage
Beyond the pitch, Ralph was deeply proud of his Italian roots. He was a pillar of the Italian Canadian community, serving actively on numerous committees and organizations dedicated to fostering and preserving Italian heritage and culture in Manitoba. Through this dedication, he ensured that future generations stayed connected to their roots. He lived his life with a rare combination of grit and grace, always prioritizing the well-being of his family and the advancement of his community.
In addition to his contributions to soccer, Ralph, owner of Ralph’s Custom Tailors, was known for his work, a beloved place in Winnipeg where people not only had their clothing beautifully crafted but also enjoyed a chat with Ralph himself.
The family expresses deep gratitude to the staff at The Simkin Centre and The Waverley for their care over the year. A special thank you to the compassionate team at St. Boniface Hospital and to family friend Dr. Gerald Olin for his steadfast care and support.
A formal memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on March 24, 2026, at the Centro Caboto Centre, 1055 Wilkes Ave, Winnipeg, MB. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in honour of Ralph’s spirit of giving.
The service will be viewable via Livestream through the Thomson ‘In the Park” website.
Publish Date: Mar 21, 2026
RALPH CANTAFIO
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Cantafio on March 9, 2026, at the age of 97.
He is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Elvira; his children, Mary, Caroline, and Raff (Laurie); and his grandchildren, Nicholas and Julia.
A dedicated educator and the "Father of Modern Soccer" in Manitoba, Ralph’s passion for the game and his community left an indelible mark on Winnipeg.
The family expresses their sincere gratitude to the staff at The Waverley, the Simkin Centre (Weinberg 2), and St. Boniface Hospital for their compassionate care.
A full, detailed obituary and information regarding a Celebration of Life will follow at a later date once arrangements are finalized.
Publish Date: Mar 12, 2026
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 12, 2026, Mar 21, 2026
Condolences & Memories (33 entries)
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Ralph was a legend tailor in the Winnipeg community. For military members needing Mess Dress, which our extra fancy uniform worn in place of Black Tie for events, Ralph’s Custom Tailors was the place that you sent newly posted in military members who needed Mess Dress custom made for them. Ralph’s was the only place to be trusted to make the Mess Kit properly and adhering to the military standards for the members military branch. While I am saddened to hear of his death, he lived a wonderful life and was respected for both his s as a tailor, but also as a community member. I grew up near his shop, and it was a fixture in the community. My deepest sympathies to his family, friends and community. - Posted by: Colleen Kelly-Wardle (Retired military member) on: Mar 29, 2026
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My condolences go out to the Ralph Cantafio family. I was 12 years old when my cousin Dusan introduced me to Ralph. He always had a kind word for me as a kid, always made me feel good. I enjoyed my visits to see him at Italinter games and his Taylor shop growing up. Ralph was a good soul and a man of vision and purpose. George Drazic - Posted by: George Drazic (Friend) on: Mar 24, 2026
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I remember going into Ralph's as a very young boy. Sometimes with my Mother, my Grandmother, my Father or any of my other relatives. Taking our clothes to Ralph was as natural as the Saturday stop at Bill the butcher, picking up groceries at Hardy & Buchanan or getting the weekly bread order from the Belgian Bakery before stopping at Steve's for a haircut. He and his shop formed an important part of our community and we are better for it. As a Grandfather today I am saddened these places are no longer around for me to take my grandchildren to to on my Saturday errands. Rest in peace Ralph and thank you from the entire "Graham" family for your years of service to our community. - Posted by: James Graham (Customer) on: Mar 24, 2026
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Ralph was an amazing man, father, husband, friend, and mentor. His advice and guidance in my early years in Winnipeg were invaluable. Our talks when I would drop by his shop, were most often the highlight of that week. Our visits on Christmas Eve daytime will be memories I cherish forever. Getting the opportunity to watch him create the Winnipeg Fury and bring them into the Canadian Soccer landscape was very special. He was a visionary. He will be sadly missed but the memories for friends and family will keep him in our hearts forever. I along with my wife Shawn and son Michael send our thoughts and prayers to the family. - Posted by: Bill Gould (Friend) on: Mar 24, 2026
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Our deepest condolences to the family. A life well lived, rest in peace Ralph. - Posted by: Salvatore and Pat Carvelli (Friend) on: Mar 23, 2026
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A deep loss, to be sure, but what a life! Condolences to all the family and we give sincere thanks, with great memories, for having had this great character in our lives. Rest in peace Ralph Cantafio. - Posted by: David and Ruth Asper (Customers) on: Mar 23, 2026
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With heartfelt thoughts, our condolences to the family . Sincerely Frank & Gisèle Vinci & family - Posted by: Frank and Gisèle Vinci (Family relations) on: Mar 23, 2026
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May the resurrection of Jesus Christ bring hope to my faith community knowing that one day we will all be transformed in the twinkle of an eye. - Posted by: Please pray for (St. Lazarus of Bethany) on: Mar 22, 2026
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Our deepest sympathies to Ralph’s family and many friends. We met Ralph and Raff as customers of the shop and immediately became impressed with his craftsmanship, professionalism and gentle nature, Friendship was immediate and we always enjoyed seeing him for a chat. We met him last at the Reh-fit Centre spending the better part of an hour catching up on family, friends and soccer. We will miss all that. - Posted by: David and Terry Murray (Friends) on: Mar 22, 2026
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I have known Ralph and his family since high school. They are a piece of my life fabric. Ralph always greeted me like I was his own child and his zest for life inspired everyone around him. I feel so fortunate to have know Ralph. I send my entire heart to his family and grandchildren who will miss him dearly. May his spirit rest in heaven and look down on us to help us shine in our own commitment to Winnipeg and this province as he held a torch. He will be around his wife and children and grandchildren wrapping them in his love all day everyday until they all meet again. I love you guys!! I love you Ralph I will miss seeing you and being wrapped in your huge hugs and kisses. I will fondly think of you when I walk down Corydon! You did have a wonderful son and grandson who both resemble you and the man that you were. Thank goodness for family!!! - Posted by: Onalee Ames (Family friend) on: Mar 22, 2026
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My Heartfelt Condolences To My Faith Community and to the Cantafio Family on the Loss of a True Hero - Posted by: Attends Holy Rosary Parish (on the sacred lands of my Indigenous Elders) on: Mar 21, 2026
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A"Stitch in time". It was through Ralph I learned to sew on a button, stitch a button whole and express myself in Italian when the game did not go my way. A great person and friend. - Posted by: Robert Mizak (friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Thinking of the girls when they were in Girl Guides. That was back in the late 60's. I also remember the parents. Take Care all. - Posted by: Judith Walton (Friend of the girls in the guiding movement.) on: Mar 21, 2026
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My sincere condolences to the family. - Posted by: Elisabeth Stornel (None) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Our deepest and sincere condolences to the Cantafio family! George and Rosa Rakic, Friend - Posted by: George Rakic (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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My deepest condolences to Raff and family. I always enjoyed talking to Mr. Cantafio at the tailor shop when I would drop in to visit with Raff or at the soccer complex. He contributed so much to the community, his legacy will continue on for many years to come. May the memories be a blessing to your family. - Posted by: Carole (friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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A life beautifully lived. Sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Erickson Family (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Our sincere condolences to the Cantafio family on the passing of our dear friend Ralph. May he rest in peace. - Posted by: Maria Cianflone & family (Friend) on: Mar 20, 2026
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Dear Raff Laurie and family Truly a man for others! My thoughts and prayers Paul d’Eschambault - Posted by: Paul d’Eschambault (Grad date) on: Mar 17, 2026
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My deepest sympathies to the Cantafio family. Ralph was a special man and he will truly be missed. Sincerely Blaire Foster - Posted by: Blaire Foster (Soccer Player with Italinter Soccer Club (1981 - 1984)) on: Mar 17, 2026
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My deepest condolences to you dear Cousin Elvie, to Mary, Caroline and Ralph Jr. I will always have fond memories of our families ‘ bond and closeness and of Ralph s presence in our lives He was always so kind to me and interested in my life. Even in his aging last years when I would call with questions, he took the time to chat and express how happy he was by my interest in our family history. Ralph will be dearly missed by many. - Posted by: Marilyn Mottola (Cousin) on: Mar 15, 2026
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We are so sorry to hear of Ralph’s passing. Our deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Saverio & Giovanna Buoncore (Friends) on: Mar 15, 2026
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As The Provincial Minister of Sport, I was happy to work with Ralph to benefit the sport community. He is a legend in Manituba. - Posted by: Jim Ernst (worked together in sport) on: Mar 15, 2026
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My deepest condolences to Raff, Laurie and family - Posted by: Kim Irving (Family friend) on: Mar 14, 2026
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We are so sad to hear about Ralph’s passing. He was such an important part of our lives. I always talked about my first encounter with him. He was playing cards in his Tailor shop on Corydon. I wanted to play soccer in the senior league but teams were not interested in a young skinny Irishman from the UK. He asked what position I played, then he invited me to a team practice. The rest is history and I am very grateful for the friendship and love we received from Ralph and rest of the family over the years. He became our best man at our wedding and was always in our thoughts to this day and will be forever. To Elvira, Mary, Caroline and Ralph Jr., your husband and father was someone to be very proud of and we all know that this could not have been achieved without the love and support of his family. He may be gone but he definitely will not be forgotten by any of us. Thank you all for allowing Ralph to be a big part of our lives. May he rest in peace. Love Walt and Terry McKee I - Posted by: Walt & Terry McKee (Dear Friends) on: Mar 13, 2026
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I would like to extend my deepest Condolences to the the family! Ralph was an icon in the community. God Bless Everyone! Tony Guzzi (di Carlo ) - Posted by: Anthony Guzzi (Friend) on: Mar 12, 2026
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I am so sad to hear this…my condolences to his family. Rest in peace dear Ralph! Heather Rogers - Posted by: Heather Rogers (Family Friend) on: Mar 12, 2026
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I am very sorry to hear that Mr Ralph pass away I used to be Ralph's Assistant President in Manitoba Soccer Association long time ago and we get Meetings at his Store at Corydon Ave. Sending my Deepest Condolences to the Family. - Posted by: Joe Zizic (Friend) on: Mar 12, 2026
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My condolences to Raff and his family on their loss. Your dad was a reason that many people got interested in soccer here in Winnipeg and Manitoba, through his shared love of the game he inspired many more to get involved at all different levels, whether it be playing the game, coaching, organizing. He brought the Winnipeg Fury into reality, and I know it helped me fall in love with the game. Never underestimate Ralph’s impact on the game. He was a huge influence and he will be missed. - Posted by: Todd Povey (Soccer community) on: Mar 12, 2026
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Sending my deepest condolences to the family! - Posted by: Cathy Rizzuto (Anania) (Friend) on: Mar 12, 2026
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Our very deepest condolences to the family!🙏 - Posted by: Tony and Lina Guzzi (Friends) on: Mar 12, 2026
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My deepest condolences to the family. My prayers and thoughts are with everyone. - Posted by: Sandra Wollmann (Friend) on: Mar 12, 2026
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Our deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Teresa (Niece) on: Mar 12, 2026