Ralph George Tannis

Now resting in the arms of the Lord, passed away in Ottawa on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at the age of 79.

Beloved son of the late George and Patricia Zarbatany Tannis.

Dear brother of Ernest, Winston and Cynthia; predeceased by Mitchell (Nadine) and Jeanette.

He will be sorely missed by his many friends, relatives, nieces, nephews and Godchildren..

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, May 25, 2024 from 9:00 to 10:00 am at St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 2975 Riverside Dr., followed by funeral service.

Interment Capital Memorial Funeral Home and Cemetery, 3700 Prince of Wales.

Thanks to the caring staff at St. Patrick’s home and the various hospitals and facilities that cared for him.

For those wishing, in memoriam donations to the Snowsuit Fund, It would warm RGT’s heart to know that you are helping keep a child warm this winter or to St. Elias Cathedral would be appreciated.

Funeral arrangement entrusted to McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home and Chapel, 1411 Hunt Club Rd.

A special mention to his mother’s “Zarbatany” family which held a special place in his life and his “Jido” the Very Reverend Econonmos Michael Zarbatany, who inspired his faith. Also a shout out to all RGIANS.

Before embracing his lifetime commitment to Fat Alberts/Ralphs, he enjoyed but abandoned blossoming career opportunities with RBC and IBM. Fat Alberts was cofounded by him and Nelson Davis and grew to 22 restaurants a dozen of which were bar (Ralph’s) restaurants. At one point they were on the list of 100 restaurants to watch in an industry publication.

One of the great loves of Ralph’s life was politics – conservative politics. From the late ‘60s he signed on to the Progressive Conservative agendas and never wavered. Like everything he did, Ralph wore his politics on his sleeve, proudly and loudly.

For decades he was the first to appear at Tory campaign offices with donations of subs and pizzas from Fat Albert’s … and complained loudly if he wasn’t called for more to give. Ralph’s dedication to ensuring conservative candidates’ caloric intake had him even flying great quantities of subs to support Frank Miller’s team at a leadership convention in Toronto.

Ralph epitomized the definition of ‘Red Tory’, a true fiscal conservative but calling for support of those needing it. In this latter, his political actions reflected his community involvement, always generous, self-effacing and when committed never looked back.

Ralph was completely dedicated to bettering his community and believed being involved politically was his starting point. His generosity, great humour and extraordinarily caring nature was his hallmark, and will be missed greatly.

Ralph’s was a devoted and avid supporter of local professional and amateur teams and Les Expos.

Ralph was a strong believer in community service. Serving on boards, of the CCEA and NCC as well being on the Competition Bureau.

He was co-founder of the snow suit fund with Joan Gullen and a staunch advocate for REACH ( provider of pro bono legal and educational services which merged with Able2).

He was known for his intellect and infectious sense of humour often at his own expense and his adoration of his dogs Betan, Zarby and Shanti.