Obituary of Ralph Merritt Vaughan

Ralph Merritt Vaughan passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on July 26th, 2023, at the Westbury Long Term Care Residence in Etobicoke, Ontario. He was 81 years old. Ralph is survived by his brother, Stanley Vaughan; his children, Terry Vaughan (Janet), Lisa Vaughan (Kevin), Rebecca Carriere (Reese); and his grandchildren, Victoria, Cecily, Jack, Finnegan, Minnow, and Plum. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Merritt Vaughan; his sister, Beverly Beres; Marlene Stewart, Shelley Vaughan, and Ryan Carriere.

Ralph spent his formative years in the Smithville (Ontario) area, where he attended South Lincoln High School. He later attended the Provincial Institute of Trades to pursue a career in refrigeration and air conditioning. During his career, he serviced ships passing through the Welland Canal and supported local farmers with their cold storage facilities.

 Ralph loved cars. Some memorable vehicles he owned were a first-generation 1964 1/2 Mustang, a 1967 Mustang Fastback, and a 1961 F85 Oldsmobile Convertible. Ralph also restored a 1959 Ford Thunderbird. He and his friend Clair raced a 1967 Camaro Convertible at Cayuga Dragway Park (which ran the quarter mile in about 12 1/2 seconds). Ralph also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends - and was famous for his homemade butter tarts and apple pies.

 Arrangements have been entrusted to Merritt Funeral Home. An event to celebrate Ralph’s life will be announced at a later date. Donations to Toronto Dementia Research Alliance would be appreciated by the family and if desired can be made through the funeral home, (905)957-7031