A Salmon Arm man who passed suddenly while on a trip to New Zealand is being fondly remembered as a successful businessman, a world traveller and a role model and mentor to many young people.

Ralph Reid passed away of a sudden and massive heart attack on March 21, leaving behind his wife of 38 years, Debbie, a devoted family and a large group of friends.

A collection of Reid鈥檚 family鈥檚 impressions and memories of him, compiled by his daughter-in-law Candice, speak of a devoted husband, father, grandfather and pet owner who could be relied upon for anything.

Among the closest of Reid鈥檚 friends is Dave Barnard who said he has 45 years worth of memories to draw upon when thinking about his departed friend.

Barnard played and coached baseball with Reid. He said Reid took time to mentor the young players on the teams he coached, inspiring the toughness needed to bring out the best in them with a favourite phrase of his: 鈥淭here鈥檚 no crying in baseball.鈥�

The mentorship of young people didn鈥檛 stop on the baseball diamond. Both Barnard and Reid鈥檚 family spoke highly of the way he opened his home to his sons鈥� friends offering a place to stay when they needed it.

Reid was a skilled athlete particularly at golf which Barnard jokingly described as his first love.

鈥淚f he played something it was going to be played as hard as he could play it,鈥� Barnard said.

Barnard described his friend鈥檚 diligent work ethic.

鈥淚 could phone Ralph at 5:30 in the morning and I鈥檇 never fear him not being up,鈥� Barnard said

Reid鈥檚 family also recalled him as a constantly early-riser who did a lot of his best thinking while drinking coffee and driving around town very early in the morning.

The work ethic translated into a successful business, General Assembly Excavating, which he ran with his business partner Garth Jackson.

Reid is remembered by all for his sharp wit and his personable nature which allowed him to quickly befriend the locals on his extensive travels in foreign countries.

鈥淗is respect for others made him a well-respected member of our small community,鈥� a statement from Reid鈥檚 family reads.

鈥淭he family has been overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity and support the community has shown since Ralph鈥檚 passing and is so grateful.鈥�

A celebration of life will be held at the Walters鈥� farm in Notch Hill on April 27 with an open house from 4 to 7 p.m.

Speaking to the number of lives Reid touched, Barnard said between 500 and 800 people are expected.

jim.elliot@saobserver.net
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