In 1940 Ralph purchased a half section of virgin prairie land and, in partnership with his brother, Allan, launched into a purebred Hereford operation which they later converted into a cow-calf enterprise. He also raised hogs for a number of years.

Ralph took an early interest in the formulation of farm policy at the local, regional, provincial and national levels.

He joined the Kindersley local of the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and in 1964 was elected to the provincial Saskatchewan Stock Growers board. This organization he served for 24 years, including a term as president. He represented the Stock Growers on the Saskatchewan Livestock Board and was elected for a term as president of that organization, representing purebred and commercial livestock producers across the province. He also served many years on the Saskatchewan Cattle Breeders Association. He was active in the formation of the Canadian Western Agribition. In 1989 he received an honor scroll from the Saskatchewan Livestock Association for his contributions to this provinceís livestock industry.

Ralph represented the Stock Growers on the Saskatchewan Federation of Agriculture executive and was one of Saskatchewanís delegates to the Canadian Federation of Agriculture board. He served three years as director of United Grain Growers and later represented that organization on the SFA. When the Palliser Wheat Growers was formed he became an active participant.

He led the Flaxcombe and Alsask 4-H Beef Clubs and served on the boards of the Craiglands School and the Kindersley School Unit. Ralph also took a leadership role in local co-operatives and the credit union. A community leader, he helped plan three homecoming celebrations. He died February 24, 1995.