Ralph, resident, Canterbury Court

Years ago, as volunteers, Ralph and his wife Molly saw many seniors living in retched conditions. “We hoped we would never end up like that,” says Ralph. “Canterbury Court is very different, it’s clean and tidy and the personnel are friendly and helpful, they make life pleasant.”

When they moved into the Court Molly was struggling with mental issues. “She was a great cook and housekeeper, but it was just too much for her at home. At Canterbury Court she didn’t need to worry about such things,” says Ralph.

 “We made lots of friends here at the Court before Molly passed away in 2004,” Ralph continues. “I ended up remarrying. Aileen came from the same area of southern Alberta where I grew up. We knew quite a few of the same people.”

Aileen was a talented artist and donated many of her oil paintings to the activities department of Canterbury Court. They sold the paintings and used the proceeds to enhance activities for the residents. “The activities people do a very good job,” says Ralph. “We were pleased to support them any way we could.”

Aileen and Ralph often invited neighbours over to play cards. “We had lots of fun and all became very good friends,” says Ralph. Aileen passed away in December 2008, but the others continue to enjoy each other’s company over a good game of Shanghai.

After a life of ranching and farming in southern Alberta, instructing pilots during WWII and teaching high school in Edmonton for the last 15 years of his working life, Ralph is happy to remain at Canterbury Court. “There are lots of interesting people here, and while there is no way to get to know them all, I feel a part of the community, which is a good feeling.”