Ruth Ross (née Dalrymple)

In Loving Memory of Ruth Ross

Ruth Ross passed away peacefully at Hospice Simcoe on Sunday, March 16^th, with her devoted husband Bill, her daughter Fiona, and son-in-law Richard by her side.

Born in Dunfermline, Scotland, Ruth was the second child of William and Mary Dalrymple (née Kerr).  She was predeceased by her siblings William (Dal), Alan, and Margaret but is lovingly remembered by her remaining brother, Colin.

Raised in the small mining town of Kelty, Ruth excelled academically and was the first in her family to pursue higher education.  She graduated from Moray House College of Education as a primary teacher and returned to teach at Kelty Primary School, as well as other primary schools, shaping young minds with her intelligence and kindness.

Ruth met the love of her life, William (Bill) Ross, in Leith, at the home of a mutual friend, and they married in the Kelty Village Church on May 9^th, 1964.  Their love stood the test of time, and in May 2024, they joyfully celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary, surrounded by family.  Colin (Lynn) travelled from Scotland to join them, along with their daughter Fiona (Richard), former daughter-in-law Michelle, and their five cherished grandchildren: Kieran, Cameron, Abigail, Kyla, and Lexie.

A devoted wife, Ruth supported Bill’s career as a ship captain while creating a warm and loving home for their children, Fiona and Calum (deceased).  She was not only a nurturing mother but also a part time "zookeeper", tending to the many beloved family pets—including dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, and budgies—who brought joy, mischief (and sometimes destruction) into their home.

After immigrating to Canada, Ruth could not transfer her Scottish teaching credentials, so she pivoted to a career in banking.  She started as a part-time teller and, through dedication and perseverance, advanced to Personal Financial Planner before retiring in 2001.  In retirement, she and Bill settled in Craighurst, Ontario, where they built a strong and supportive community of friends.

Ruth was an avid reader and a talented knitter, always working on a new project with skill and patience.  She enjoyed the quiet challenge of Sudoku and crosswords, and while she was an introvert at heart, she was a thoughtful and kind neighbour, who had a sharp wit and sense of humour, and formed lasting friendships.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

As per Ruth’s wishes she will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held later in the spring, when the trillium bloom.

In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to make a donation in her name to the Sarcoma Cancer Foundation of Canada (http://sarcomacancer.ca/donate) or to a charity of their choice.

Peaceful Transition Simcoe