MAY, Ralph Albert 

April 5, 1949 – February 24, 2021 

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of one of our founding partners, Ralph Albert May at the age of 71.

Ralph grew up in the farming community of east Richmond.  After high school, he attended the University of British Columbia, obtaining both his Bachelor of Commerce and his law degree. He began articling with the firm in 1974 and was called to the bar on May 20, 1975. His law practice focused very heavily on providing advice to the farming community throughout the province.

In addition to his commitment to our firm, farming remained a big part of Ralph’s life. Over the years, Ralph served as Chairman of the B.C. Cranberry Growers Association, Chairman of the Cranberry Institute of North America, Director of Ocean Spray Cranberries and Founding Director of the B.C. Expropriation Association.

Ralph was also very active in the community of Richmond. He was the Founding Chairman of the Richmond Community Foundation, Former Member of Richmond Gateway Theatre Society, and more recently a Director of the Richmond Hospital Foundation. Ralph was also the Recipient of the Governor General’s Commemorative Medal.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Judy (Cruickshank), son Warren (Melinda) Mellia and Jack, daughter Lindsay (Andrew) Siobhan, son Spencer (Sarah) Liam, Connor, Graham and Kaleb. He is also survived by his brother Bruce and sister Louise, their families and many more relatives, colleagues and friends. His son Spencer, also a partner of the firm, has taken over his father’s legacy in providing legal services to the farming community.

A celebration of life will be announced when public health allows a suitable memorial for Ralph.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to the Richmond Hospital Foundation: https://www.richmondhospitalfoundation.com/donate/, or the BC Alzheimer Society: https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en.

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