It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph “Chick” Billings. He passed away peacefully at Gateway Haven, Wiarton on February 22, 2025 in his 83rd year.
Predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years Anne (nee Lee) (2022). Loving father of Shelley Sweazey (Freeman) and Michael Billings. Cherished Poppy of Luke Sweazey (Kendal), Ashlee Burke (Devon), Sam Sweazey (Emma) and Jack Sweazey (Kyanna). Great Poppy of Campbell Burke. Also surviving Chick are his sisters Susan Kargus (Roy 2022) and Barbara Billings, sisters-in-law Maureen Ollerhead (Robin) and Carol Macdonald (Earl), brother-in-law Reagan Lee and sister-in-law Nancy Lee (Sonny 2013). Predeceased by great grandson James Plant Sweazey (2023).
Chick spent his entire working career as a machinist at Imperial Tobacco in Guelph. When he retired, he and Anne moved up to their little piece of paradise at Barrow Bay on the Bruce Peninsula. His passion for fishing and his unwavering support for community events such as the annual fishing derby and the fish dinner created wonderful memories for many folks over the years! To escape the winters he disliked, they eventually started to winter in Briny Breezes, Florida. It was here Chick honed his craft as a woodworker when he joined the Chiselers’ Club. Many folks were the fortunate recipients of one of his well crafted bowls! Chick loved his family very much and he spent many hours being a part of whatever his grandchildren were involved in, always proud of their accomplishments.
As per Chick’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051/ www.wallcustance.com.
As expressions of sympathy, donations in Chick’s memory can be made to Parkinson Canada.
A tree will be planted in memory of Ralph E. Billings in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.