STEPHENSON, Ronald (Ron) JosephFebruary 6, 1949 – New Waterford, Nova ScotiaJanuary 10, 2017 – Calgary, AlbertaRonald Joseph Stephenson, of Calgary, Alberta, passed away after a long and courageous battle with kidney disease on Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at the age of 67 years. Ron was born on February 6, 1949 in New Waterford, NS, the eighth of thirteen children of Fidelis and Florence (nee McKenzie) Stephenson. In 1968, Ron followed his older brothers to Calgary, where he completed his certification as a machinist and worked for many years with Canadian Pacific Railway. He later achieved his millwright certification and worked for several decades at Westroc Industries. Ron had an exceptional work ethic, and a strong, determined personality that shielded his warm and generous heart. He cherished his time with his children, and served as a volunteer coach to his daughters' minor league baseball team for many years. He particularly enjoyed the camaraderie with his teammates during his years in gentlemen's hockey. Ron always looked forward to his trips to Kelowna, where he would visit with his daughters and their families. He also made many trips home to Cape Breton over recent years, visiting with family and friends, gathering around bonfires and on the beach near his New Waterford homestead to share lobster and good times. Ron is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Tracey Nimetz (Jody), Julie Stork (David); and their mother, Patti Stephenson all of Kelowna, BC; son, Mackenzie of Calgary, and his mother, Donna Whitesel of Creston, BC; grandchildren, Emma and Eli Nimetz; 8 brothers, Father Bill, Paul (Terry), and Edward, all of Calgary, and Arthur of Pincher Creek, AB; Michael (Marilla), Fidel (Ann), David (Anna), Pius (Gail); 3 sisters, Carmel Coffin (Jack), Brenda Stephenson (George); Bernadette Foley (Walter), all of Nova Scotia; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ron was predeceased by his parents, Fidelis and Florence; and his brother, Thomas, as a young child. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North) on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, 6007 – 1A Street S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0G5 Telephone: (403) 255-6108, www.kidney.ca. In living memory of Ron Stephenson, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.