Ralph Olsen Avery

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Avery, Ralph Olsen passed away on Tuesday, April 7, in Marco Island, Florida, surrounded by his family. He was 89. Born in Grates Cove, Newfoundland to Elsa (Martin) and William Bertram Avery, one of six children. A proficient student, he began college in St. John's, then transferred to the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg to study medicine. After a stint in the Canadian Army, he returned to school, but a part time job with the Canadian National Railway turned into a successful career in railroading, first with the CN and eventually with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe. He retired as an executive with BNSF in 1989 after 36 years. Ralph met his true love, Betty Kilfoyle, in Winnipeg. They married, produced a daughter and, when he was recruited by the Northern Pacific Railway, emigrated to Minnesota. They settled first in Saint Louis Park and added a son, then moved to the East Side of Saint Paul near Lake Phalen to be closer to the company's headquarters. As empty-nesters, Ralph and Betty built a house at Evergreen in Woodbury, where they lived until Ralph's retirement, then to Marco Island, spending summers at their cabin on Big Stony Lake near Park Rapids. Ralph served in leadership roles on the board of his large condominium association for 20 years. Preceded in death by his parents, brothers Ben and Roy, and sisters Phyllis (Strong) and Sarah. Survived by his wife Betty; his older sister Rhetta (Mattinson) and dear niece Bengenia (March); daughter Donna (Tom Kigin), and grandaughters Mackenzie and Elizabeth; son Brian (Katherine Pine), and grandsons William and Connor; and a large circle of treasured nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends. Remembered for his insatiable curiosity, quick mind and astonishing memory, interest in politics local and global, love of debate on most topics, devotion to family, and stories of Grates Cove. There will be a memorial event from 11 am to 2 pm Friday, May 15 at the University Club, 420 Summit Avenue in Saint Paul, with remarks and recollections at 11:30. Condolences: dignitymemorial.com In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to a charity of your choice.

Published on May 10, 2015