It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of our mom on March 11, 2024, at Wilkes Terrace, with her family by her side.
She was born on February 25, 1924, in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland. There, while ice skating, she met a handsome R.C.N Chief Petty Officer from Schreiber, Ontario, Canada. She married Keith Ross in Paisley in May 1945. While Keith continued his war duties, Mary started her journey to Canada as a young war bride. With her usual strength and resilience, she embraced Canada as her new home, raising 8 children (including 2 sets of boy/girl twins).
It was a busy time, but Mary maintained a strong connection to her Catholic faith and loyalty to her Scottish roots. Mary was a beautiful mother who was always there for her children, supporting them in all their endeavours. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were very special to her. Her face would glow with pride when she was with them.
So many people have fond memories of Mary. She touched many lives with her kindness, humour, and quick wit (including eye rolls). Although she led a quiet life, she was grateful to have met many good people.
A legacy of precious times will be held dearly by her children: John (Muriel), Sault Ste. Marie, ON; Ken, Edmonton, AB; Sandralee (Joe Lucchetta), Guelph, ON; Steven (Terri), Calgary, AB; Dale (Dwyla Baltutis), Sudbury, ON; Shirley (Charlie Grzyb), Perth, Australia; Larry, Schreiber, ON; Linda (Tom Ballentine), Terrace Bay, ON. Her grandchildren: Cary Ross (Aaron), Jennifer Stone (Chris), Christopher Ballentine, Karli Bennett (Ephrem), Stephanie Ross, Connor Ross, and Shannon Ross. Her great-grandchildren: Brianna Ross, Brennan Ross, Madison Stone, and Parker Stone.
She is predeceased by her husband, Keith, her family in Scotland, her parents, Margaret and Frank, and her sister, Sadie Greer.
Thank you so much to the wonderful staff at Wilkes Terrace. Mary thought the world of you all.
A memorial mass will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Wilkes Terrace, Long Term Care, Terrace Bay, in lieu of flowers, should friends desire.
“The golden Hours, on angel wings,
Flew o’er me and my Dearie;
For dear to me, as light and life,
Was my sweet Highland Mary.”
-- Robert Burns
We love you, Mom, and we will miss our wee Mary.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
