Ralph Weber

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Weber, 86, on October 16, 2024 after a courageous seven-year battle with vascular dementia. Throughout this difficult journey, he exemplified a quiet strength and resilience that inspired all who knew him. Ralph passed at the Saskatoon Convalescent Home, surrounded by those who loved him and an outstanding staff that adored him. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 59 years, Verona; his devoted children, Trent (Rhonda), Leanne (Domenic); his grandchildren, Alicia, Joseph, Tyler, Daniella, Adam; great grandchildren Maecy and Charlee. As well, Ralph will be greatly missed by his sisters Betty (Stan), Marcie (Keith), Jean (Brian), Brenda, and brothers Robert (Viola), Joe (predeceased) Ono (predeceased), David (Danine); brother-and sisters-in-laws, Grace (predeceased) (Keith), Jo (Jim), and Don (Denise) (predeceased) and many nieces and nephews. 

Ralph was born in Wilkie Saskatchewan on Sept 22, 1938, to Casmir and Helen Weber, the eldest of eight kids, and spent most of his youth playing street shinny, working at the bowling alley, and serving at the church. In 1962, met and fell in love with Verona. They were married three years later in 1965. Ralph was a devoted husband and an unwavering role model for his children. He took great pride in their successes and maintained high expectations, teaching them independence and the rewards of hard work. He was always ready to offer advice. 

Starting his working career alongside his father, Ralph helped unload boxcars of coal and delivered them to families in Wilkie. He also dedicated time to the community, hauling gravel for the local church during its construction. In addition to these early experiences, he spent his winters working in the oil fields near Kerrobert, SK, and his summers with the railroad B&B gang. Grateful for new opportunities, he later began working for Bagnall's Transport, where he discovered that driving was his true niche. This led him to purchase Hanson’s Trucking, which he proudly renamed Weber's Transport. In the early 70s, he started hauling for Brodsky Construction, where he enjoyed many rewarding years surrounded by a strong sense of family. 

With the support of Nate Brodsky, Ralph transitioned to Kiewit Corporation, contributing to the Nipawin Dam Project. His eagerness to learn and achieve propelled him to purchase his first auto carrier truck, and he began hauling cars from Vancouver to Toronto for VOT, later renamed Auto Haulaway. From 1986 until their retirement in 2000, Ralph and Verona enjoyed countless adventures on the road together. With his sharp, analytical mind, Ralph excelled at data entry, meticulously logging everything from gas and mileage to bills and expenses, never allowing his mind to rest.

 While Ralph enjoyed a tremendous career, his family time remained important in his life. Though his work kept him away from daily routines, he made up for it during summer weekends, camping, fishing, and long hikes “rain or shine” enjoying Spitz along the way. Together Ralph and Verona planned and mapped out family vacations, including California, Florida, Toronto, Dakodas, and Mount Rushmore, with many interesting sights along the way to keep the kids entertained. 

Ralph and Verona spent their retirement years traveling to their winter home in Naples, Florida, whether in their car or RV, they cherished the journey. New friends, family visits, and RV rallies became highlights of their snowbird holidays, filling their time with laughter and memorable experiences. 

He will be remembered for his quick wit, kindness, and charm, which brightened the lives of those around him. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always finding joy in their laughter and adventures. His love for family was matched only by his passion for antique vehicles and pride in his semi trucks, each a testament to his hard work and dedication.His ability to face each day with dignity and grace was a testament to his character and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for the remarkable impact he had on our lives.

The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 1:30 pm at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 217 Lenore Dr., Saskatoon, SK. For anyone unable to attend, a livestream has been set up at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/98949

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to the Saskatoon Convalescent Home Foundation, 101 31 St. W, Saskatoon, SK. S7L 0P6