He was one of our grand old men, a second world war vet, one of Canada's top marksmen and a staunch, unwavering man of faith.
Ralph Cathline had the aptly chosen middle name of "Bright" and bright he was, almost to the day he died at 98 years young.
He would regale us with tales of his days in the Canadian army where he served as an armourer. Not only was he the best in his profession but he was also his country's leading marksman. He competed in the Royal Bisley range championship in England and also in many contests in the States. Here he set a record for the number of bulls eyes scored at the Fort Benning contest and carried the prestigious 800 yard trophy back to Canada.
More importantly he had an eagle eye for the invisible world of the Spirit and held an unclouded vision of Christ in his heart.
I always loved to be in Ralph's company, a true warrior of the faith who left you feeling better after a cup of tea and sent you home with some of his own zest for life.
Well, Ralph, you have been called home yourself and, if there be tea in Heaven, I shall look forward to sharing another cup soon.
Jubilate.
Ian
