Ralph James Campbell

Ralph was born in the town of New Waterford on February 7th, 1947, where he resided until the age of 13. At that time his whole family relocated to Newton Corner in Massachusetts. He joined the army at the early age of 21 and was stationed in Vietnam. For the next year, he worked building bridges and protecting his men. He quickly became Sergeant and was given an Honorable Discharge.  

Ralph returned to Canada and took a job driving the Herald Trucks back and forth to Halifax. He then met and married the love of his life Lee in 1973. His first job lasted for 8 years until the business closed. Here he proved himself to be a reliable and dedicated worker with a strong work ethic as he never missed a day of work in 8 years.  

Ralph was hired in 1979 by the Cape Breton Development Corporation (DEVCO). As a miner he held and was responsible for many different positions. He stayed with Devco till it closed.  

Ralph had many interests such as Bowling, Darts and Card Playing. His passions were Horseshoes, Travel and Dancing. He was involved with horseshoes for over 30 years and became the president of the New Waterford Horseshoe Club and the Maritime Horseshoe Association. He took great pride in holding Men's, Women's and Mixed Tournaments on Sundays at the KOC. He successfully hosted the Maritime Championship in the Pier and the Over 50 Canada Games Tournament at the KOC. These tournaments brought players from as far as British Columbia.  

Ralph’s desire to travel took him all over the world. His preference being Korea where he enjoyed spending time with his son Richard and his wife Sujung and his granddaughter Asia Lee. Ralph’s love for music and dancing led him to become a Dance Instructor for 33 years with his wife Lee. They taught Rock & Roll, Jive Lessons, Two Step Waltz and even Couples Country Dancing. The Jive lessons became very popular as at times there were 94 in class at one time. 

Ralph’s true love was his children, grandchildren, and nephews and nieces. He could not wait to be close and give them his warm hugs.  Ralph was a kind, gentle, loving and funny guy. He loved playing the guitar at parties even though his hands never touched the strings. His cheerful attitude and bright smile will be missed by all.  

Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived that distinguishes one man from another. Ralph lived an unbelievable life. He touched the lives of many people through his adventures and most importantly through his relationships with his family and friends. 

Ralph is survived by his wife and best friend of 50 years Lee. A proud father of two sons Robert (Leann), Cole Harbour, Richard (Su-Jung) Korea, Sisters; Barbara Brock New Hampshire, Sisters-in-law: Marie Campbell Waltham and Joanne (Terry) New Victoria. His most valuable treasures are his granddaughters Madison (Bradley) Cole Harbour, Dawson (Raeghan), Lake Echo and Asia Lee, Korea. Along with his many nieces and nephews and his two very special boys Drew and Deakin MacPhee New Waterford.

He was Predeceased by: his parents Gervase & Mary, brothers; Bobby, Collie, Adie, and Ralph (who died at the age of 3) brothers-in-law: Dick Brock, Bruce Bort and Buddy MacKenzie, sisters; Lois, Irene, Morie and sisters-in-law; Cathy Abbass & Germaine Arsenault. 

A memorial service will be held at St. Leonard’s Church on Saturday, Sept 16, 10am followed by a luncheon and Celebration of Ralph's life at the KOC.