August 26, 1939 – August 29, 2026
It is with deep sadness that the family of Ralph Garnet Smeal announces his passing on August 29, 2026, at Westview Care Community in Linden, Alberta. Ralph was born on August 26, 1939, in Drumheller, Alberta, the third of seven children born to Albert and Irene Smeal of Michichi, Alberta. Ralph attended school in Delia and completed Grade 12 at Lindsay Thurber High School in Red Deer. After high school, Ralph enjoyed stock car racing alongside his older brother, Dick. In May 1960, Ralph began his career with Canadian Utilities, working as a lineman on a crew in Stettler. When the company later became Alberta Power and eventually ATCO, Ralph moved to Oyen, where he worked as a serviceman. It was after moving to Hanna that Ralph met the love of his life, Sherry. They were married on June 12, 1967, and began their family. Their two sons were born in Hanna, and later, they moved to Consort, where their daughter was born. In 1974, Ralph was transferred to Three Hills, where he continued his career with ATCO until his retirement. As anyone who knew Ralph will remember, he was never quite ready for the retired life! He went on to work at the Three Hills Golf Course for more than 10 years, where he made many wonderful friendships, including those with the beloved “Pilsner Group.” Ralph and Sherry continued to make their home in the Three Hills community until Ralph moved into extended care in 2020. One of the first people Ralph met in Three Hills was Clarence Stewart, who became a lifelong friend. Through this friendship, Ralph developed a deep love for horses and the outdoors. Ralph and Clarence spent many years with their families at Ya Ha Tinda and in other areas out west, camping, hunting, and riding horses. They were often joined by their close friends, the Long family. Family and friendship were always important to Ralph and Sherry, and they spent many memorable years camping in British Columbia with their very good friends, the Vasseurs, the Smiths, and the Stewarts. These years created many wonderful memories that will be treasured by all who shared them. Ralph was also very active in sports throughout his life. He enjoyed baseball, curling, and golfing, and generously gave his time coaching boys’ hockey and baseball. He was a dedicated member of the Kinsmen and Elks Clubs, Friends of the Eastern Slopes, and was actively involved with the Three Hills Rodeo Committee. Ralph will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He valued family, friendship, community, and the simple pleasures of life. His love of horses, the outdoors, sports, and good friends brought him many years of happiness. Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sherry; son Garnet (Vicki); daughter Melanie (Jason); sisters Joyce, Helen, and Lorna (John); grandchildren Lisa, Ethan, Garett, and Devon; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Irene; brothers Don and Dick; sister Agnes; and his youngest son, Clint. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Westview Care Community in Linden, Alberta, for the exceptional care and compassion they provided to Ralph, particularly during his final days. Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Knox United Church, Three Hills, AB. In lieu of flowers or charitable donations, the family kindly asks that those wishing to honour Ralph consider making a donation to Westview Care Community in Linden, Alberta, where he received such wonderful care. Donations can be made through westviewcare.ca. Kneehill Funeral Services, Three Hills, entrusted with arrangements, 403-443-5111.