Obituary of Ralph Henderson

Henderson, Ralph Douglas - Passed away peacefully at The Village on the Ridge, Ridgetown, Ontario in his 90th year. Beloved brother of Donald Henderson of Dutton. Dearest Uncle of Nancy (Victor) West of St. Marys, Alex Henderson of Kitchener and Diana (Ron) Wilkins of West Lorne. Also survived by several great nieces and nephews, and a great-great niece and nephew. Predeceased by his parents Gordon Henderson (1938) and Clara (Shoemaker) Henderson (1967) and sister-in-law Betty Henderson (2016).

Ralph was a lifelong farmer, living on his farm at Rushton’s Corners since moving there as a child in 1931. He was an avid collector of antique farm machinery with a special interest in steam powered engines and trains. He was an expert welder and put his talent to great use restoring some of these to working condition. He spent many volunteer hours restoring Engine # 9, originally belonging to the Essex Terminal Railway. He was a member of the Western Ontario Steam Thresher’s Association, and enjoyed taking his engines to many steam shows around Ontario.

He also loved many genres of music especially pipe organs and enjoyed listening to organ music very much.

Family and friends will remember him as a sharp wit with a delightful sense of humour.

Many, many thanks to Ian Toll and his family for all their assistance over the last several years of Ralph’s life.

A Graveside Committal Service for Ralph will be held at the Greenwood Cemetery, Ridgetown on Thursday February 1, 2018 at 10:30am. A Celebration of Ralph’s Life will then follow at the Ridgetown Legion from 11-1pm.

Donations in memory of Ralph may be made to the East-Kent Vintage Equipment Club. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main St. East. Ridgetown, 519-674-3141