AWNA life member Ralph Brinsmead dies

Born September 15, 1935 – Loverna, Saskatchewan.
Died October 21, 2019 – Calgary, Alberta

Ralph Edward Brinsmead, 84, died Monday in Calgary. His father, Tom Brinsmead, had been publisher of the Bashaw Star. In 1967, Ralph became the first head of a new print Journalism program founded (with AWNA support) at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology – now known as SAIT Polytechnic. He left SAIT in the early 1970s to found his own public relations practice.

A few years ago, Ralph was made an honourary Life Member of AWNA. He became acquainted with members through his annual presentation of the ‘Tom Brinsmead Memorial award’ for ‘Best Feature Column’. Ralph always included a story (or two) when he presented these awards at the AWNA annual convention. Later on, Ralph started his ‘publishers’ vacation’ program. He would arrange the advertising of hotels/resorts in vacation spots, in exchange for stays at these hotels and resorts. It was a very popular program, carried by many AWNA members.

Ralph loved to tell stories about his life, family and friends. Many anecdotes were shared about life in Loverna, SK with his parents, Thomas and Edna Brinsmead and brothers, Gilbert (Sheila) and Brian. Sadly, the final chapter of Ralph’s story ended with his passing at age 84.

Until recently, Ralph lived at his Calgary home. He was able to remain there through the support and care from Health Workers Amelia and Kim. Over the past decade, they heard many of “Big Daddy’s” stories and earned a place in his heart. A great chapter in Ralph’s life was with his wife, Alene, who passed away eight years ago after fifty-one years of marriage. Another chapter was dedicated to his daughter Barb. He had always desired to create additional tales with Barb and his grandson, Chase, as well as his many nieces and nephews.

Ralph spent his career in public relations, mostly in Calgary. For many years, he also shared his knowledge with students at SAIT. He developed many relationships over this career and loved to recount these adventures. A Special Celebration of Ralph’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Sunday, October 27, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Share your legends of Ralph individually with families and friends at the reception that follows. Condolences may be forwarded through www.McInnisandHolloway.com. A tree will be planted in living memory of Ralph Brinsmead.