Durie, William 'Ross'
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of William Ross Durie on Wednesday, November 1st, 2023 at the age of 92, after a brief illness.
Ross will be missed by son Andrew (Jennifer) and grandchildren Keegan (Katie) and Elise. Predeceased by wife Hilary and daughter Wendy and brothers Neil and Hugh. Ross is survived by sister Jean (Michael) of San Carlos, California.
Ross immigrated to Canada from Scotland in the early 1950’s settling in the Toronto area and eventually moving to a farm in the Beaver Valley. Ross worked hard dividing his time between working as a stationary engineer and running the farm. He became known in the local farming community as the fellow who could fix just about anything. He was extremely generous with his time and willing to help night or day. Ross and Hilary sold the farm and retired to Meaford 10 years ago. Ross was happy to indulge Hilary’s active social life but preferred staying at home. He liked to keep up on current events and enjoyed conversing about the issues of the day. He was never shy about expressing his opinion. His cat Lily was his best friend since Hilary passed and he cared for her diligently as he always had a special place in his heart for animals. Recently Ross was living at the Meaford Long Term Care Home. He was adjusting well and starting to enjoy the social aspects of communal living.
The family would like to thank the network of heath care professionals in Meaford who supported Ross in the past year including Dr. Ellingsen, Dr. Klages, the staff at the Meaford Long Term Care Centre, Home and Community Support Services of Grey Bruce, PSW Myrna Goetz and the staff at the Meaford Hospital. In addition, we would like to thank special friends Anita Hunter and Randy Woodhouse for their ongoing compassion and care for Ross.
At Ross’s request, cremation has taken place with no formal funeral services being held.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Meaford Hospital Foundation would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted. www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
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Monday, November 6, 2023
Our sincere condolences to the family, especially my cousin Andrew now that he simultaneously becomes an orphan and the family patriarch.
As a child I knew Ross at family gatherings at Christmas when he would bring the family over to England – he was the one who ‘talked funny’ and was always teasing us children. As an adult we would have long discussions putting the world to right, but he would also tell me of his upbringing and what it was like emigrating. He was always stubborn and set in his ways but I suspect that grew out of his upbringing and is probably why he lived as long as he did even after his much missed wife had gone ahead of him – they were a team. He was a character and will be much missed in the family and I suspect in the community.
Heather & David, London, England
Monday, November 6, 2023
Rest in peace, Ross! Condolences to Andy, Jennifer, Keegan & Katie, and Elise. You are all in our thoughts.
Pat and Kelly, Jamie & Andrea, and Sandra
Monday, November 6, 2023
Andy, Jennifer, Keegan & Katie and Elise
I am so sorry to hear about Ross. My deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Anita Cornfield
Monday, November 6, 2023
Dear Andrew and family:
We are very sad to hear about the passing of your father.
Ross was a kind, thoughtful man with a good sense of humor and a lovely smile.
We have many fond memories of both of your parents.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Affectionately,
Janette and Don Scott
Monday, November 6, 2023
Thought and prayers to Andy and family threw this difficult time
Keep Ross’s memory alive
I had the privilege to get to know Ross
I will cherish the talks ,stories and the laughter with
Ross rip my friend ❤️
God bless all
Monday, November 6, 2023
Our Condolences to Andrew, Jennifer and family. We have many lovely memories of both Hilary and Ross.
Ross would always stop in for a visit when he went by our house, quite often lending Doug a hand or offering advise.
We are so sorry for your loss and our thoughts are with you at this time.
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
John and I are very sorry for the loss of your father . As a young girl I have many memories of your dad . He would often come over and help me with the chores when mom and dad were away . He was very kind to me
John and Dale burgess
Friday, November 10, 2023
Andrew and family.
So sorry to hear of Ross’s passing. He was a great neighbour when we lived across from him on the farm and when they built just below us!
Our condolences to all the family!
Barry and Linda