The family of Ralph William Karthein of Port Perry, Ontario is saddened to announce his passing at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry on July 27th, 2026.
His wife, Barbara, nee. Worth and his two grown children; Joe (Alix) and James (Tammy), and grandchild (Jasper), as well as his friends and colleagues, will sincerely miss Ralph with his many skills and sharp mind.
Ralph was born in Kitchener on August 8, 1941, to Elizabetha and Wilhelm Karthein. He attended St. Jerome’s Highschool, following which he began working towards his designation as a Chartered Accountant. In 1962, Ralph joined Philips Electronics Industries Ltd. before moving on to Hawker Siddeley Canada Ltd. where he met his wife, Barbara.
Ralph attended the University of Western Ontario, achieving his MBA in 1970. In that same year, he joined IBM Canada Ltd.; later becoming Vice-President and Controller. At IBM, he carried out many successful transnational work assignments and speaking engagements. At that time, he also was on the advisory board for the Auditor General of Canada, head of the Toronto Financial Executives Institute and Chair of the North America Financial Executives’ Research Institute.
Ralph was well known for helping others with advice about financial and career management; with many expressing continued gratitude for his guidance. Ralph was also known for his construction and mechanical skills and his love of classic cars and Harley motorcycles. He will be missed.
At Ralph’s request, no service will be held.
Ralph and the family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Oak Ridges Hospice, in Port Perry for their wonderful care.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry, would be appreciated by the family and may be made by visiting www.lowandlow.ca
