June 30, 1949 – December 11, 2025
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Kenneth Hartlen on Dec 11, 2025 with
his family by his side.
Ralph was born on June 30, 1949 in Halifax N.S. to the late Kenneth and Marie Hartlen. After obtaining his engineering degree from Dalhousie University and Technical University of Nova Scotia (TUNS); he moved to Saint John and started his job with the Federal Government. Ralph loved his job with the Canadian Coast Guard. He oversaw all construction projects for wharves and lighthouses on the Bay of Fundy and PEI often flying by helicopter to remote locations; befriending the locals and lighthouse keepers along the way. On one such trip he surprised his in-laws by landing the helicopter on their property at New River. He just needed a coffee. Ralph enjoyed golfing, salmon fishing, sailing, curling, spent many hours on his stained glass creations and was an avid collector of hockey cards. He also had a love of gardening, though he would never admit it.
Ralph will be dearly missed by wife of 44 years Suzanne (Shea), Children; Meghan (Geoff) Hamilton, Ryan (Sarah) Hartlen, his Grandchildren; Max and Shea Hamilton, his sisters; Sandra, Patricia, and Kathryn, and nephews and nieces.
The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the nurses and staff of Parkland Saint John, Cohen Hall 2nd floor for their care and compassion.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB, (506-634-7424). A drop-in for a celebration of his life will be held at the RKYC on Thursday December 18th between 3pm and 7pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to the Alzheimers Society of Canada.
