RALF WICKBERG

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RALF WICKBERG (also known professionally as Ralph Gerry) May 19, 1917 February 26, 2008 He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Swanny (Pearl), dear sister Helen Geisler, dear sister-in-law Frances Wickberg and his loving daughters, Karen (Robert Carey) Wikberg and Cheri (Gordon) Bird. Ralf will be sorely missed by his cherished grandchildren, Jamie Bird, Kristin (Colin) Gardner, Julia (Ryan) Kadow, Jessica Carey, Rosaline (Rui) Matos, and great-granddaughter Ava Bella Matos. He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Dr. Harold (Jeanette) Swanson and Dr. Gary Swanson (Colena Manning) and his many nieces and nephews. Ralf began his professional career as a singer in 1938 working in radio at the CBC. Over the years, he also announced and performed on CKY, CFRB, CJME and the BBC. He sang leads in musical theatre, and was a soloist in stage shows and night clubs. In 1942, he entered the Canadian Army and joined the Canadian Army Show, performing throughout Europe. After the War, he became part of a quartet, The Canadaires, touring the Eastern U.S. from New York to Minneapolis. He and Swanny met at Grand Beach Manitoba in 1945. They were married December 28, 1946 and started a family. With a wife and two daughters, Ralf switched to a career in business, and performing became a sideline. He was very successful for many years in business, managing offices across the country from Montreal to Edmonton and finally settling in West Vancouver in 1963. He and Swanny formed many lifelong friendships during those years. He had natural leadership qualities and was often asked to lead organizations. He was a Charter member and first President of Kiwanis Capilano, and in 1990 - 1991, served as Lt. Governor of the Pacific Northwest District. He had a winning smile and a personality to match. He was a man of great talents and abilities, but he always saved his best for his wife and daughters, and his grandchildren, putting them first, both in his heart and with his time. He was respected and loved and will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice. A celebration of his life will be held at St. David's United Church, 1525 Taylor Way, West Vancouver, on Saturday, March 8 at 2:00 p.m. First Memorial Funeral Services 604-980-3451

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 01, 2008