Ralph John Rosdal
May 31, 1938 – Jan. 10, 2025

Ralph John Rosdal, born May 31, 1938, in Rocky Mountain House, Alta., passed away on Jan. 10, 2025, after a hard battle with spinal cancer. He was the beloved son of John A. Rosdal and Lena L. Rosdal (nee Mattinson).

Ralph was predeceased by both his parents, stepfather Bill Greenslade, his sister Agnes Kopitoski, his brother Leonard Rosdal, and his daughter-in-law Hannelie Eder.

On Oct. 21, 1961, Ralph married the love of his life, Doris Rosdal (nee Williams), and later welcomed their two children Debora and John.
Leaving to mourn him are his wife Doris Rosdal, his children Debora (Robert) Martens and John Rosdal. Ralph was a proud grandfather to Casidy Martens, Casteina (Kelly) Hiitola, and Amanda (Garrett) Almond, Shandi Skaalerud, Jay (Melissa) Teeter, Cara (Richard) Teeter, and Christopher Rosdal. He also loved his great-grandchildren: Kanyon, Khloe; Lane, Lucas and Lucious; Aubree, Brooklyn and Landyn. As well, Ralph cherished numerous nieces and nephews who meant a great deal to him.

Ralph’s life was marked by a strong work ethic and a passion for the outdoors. He attended Everdell and Glacier schools during his early years. His career included being a farmer, sawmiller, cat­skinner, log skidder, working on rigs, and owning/operating a dozer, small lath mill and sawmill. Alongside his wife, he also ran the Ral-Dor Concession at Cole’s Auction Mart and Burntstick Lake in the summers. Additionally, Ralph contracted to various pipeline companies and the county. At the age of 78, he retired from his company, Rosdal Construction. He continued his love of farming and “cat-skinning” until his death.

An avid musician, Ralph loved playing the guitar, mandolin, fiddle and banjo. He was part of a family band from 1977 to 1991 and played with other groups weekly until a few years before his passing. He enjoyed hobbies such as camping, hunting, and quad riding. Ralph found joy in watching deer every evening from his house and riding his quad while his trusty dog rode on the back. He was also passionate about raising and caring for red and blue heeler dogs.

He was known by many as an amazing person, a good neighbour and a kind soul. He will be remembered as “one of the good ones” and a hero to his family.

Ralph John Rosdal will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, kindness and hard work will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Condolences may be forwarded to www.rockyfuneralhome.ca.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.