Obituary of Ralph Kettner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Henry Kettner, a long-time resident of Arras, British Columbia. Ralph passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at the age of 80 years. Exactly where he wanted to be. 

Ralph Henry Kettner was born on January 20, 1943, in Eastend, Saskatchewan. His family moved to the North Rolla area in 1946-47, where he spent his growing up years. Ralph enjoyed his youth in the Galata Creek and Flat Rock area working in sawmills and on farms until he had an opportunity to join BC Hydro, where he stayed until retirement.

He met his wife Kay (O’Brien) and they soon married and had Billy and Penny. In 1976, Ralph and Kay bought property in Arras. They had no idea how much work would go into building their dream property.  There was not even a driveway, just 40 acres of swamp and poplar. Ralph worked tirelessly turning this into a lovely log home with beautiful out buildings. All mostly built with his own two hands, through rain, snow, and pneumonia.

After Ralph retired, he took up wood working - crafting everything from lawn ornaments to cabinets in Amanda’s first home. He made it all. Amanda had only to share an idea with him, and he would make it! He was very talented and meticulous.

Ralph also liked to have his fun time, which included lots of traveling. This played a large part in his and Kay’s life together.  His “Old Blue” chevy truck and 5^th wheel covered a lot of ground and made many trips going from Fairbanks, Alaska to Mexico. Bus tours were also a lot of fun, across eastern Canada to southern Texas. Cruises also become very popular for the two, Panama Canal being the longest trip and the last one they would take.

When Ralph wasn’t traveling or wood working you would find him out on his beloved skid steer. It became a staple in his in everyday activities.  If there was snow, he would plow it. If there was dirt, he would dig it. Pretty much anything that was not nailed down he would push/pull/dig it! Sometimes even if it was nailed down! This was all part of his quiet life he enjoyed so much on his little piece of “paradise”.

Ralph is survived by his wife Kay; his daughter Penny and her family; granddaughter Amanda (Boone) and her sons Ryder and Brogan.

Ralph was predeceased by his son Billy; mother and father; four brothers and one sister.

For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Ralph to the charity of your choice.

Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home and Crematorium