PERRY, W. Ross, of Fergus, passed on February 28th while surrounded by loved ones. Ross is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen (nee Rogers) of Fergus; daughter Leanne and her husband Rogelio Rosas of Los Angeles; son Tyler, his wife June (nee Gottschalk), and beloved grandchildren Kate and Michael of Fergus. Ross is also survived by his brother Stuart; his sister Leslie; sister-in-law Barb Rogers, niece Alicia Sanchez-Krulicki, and her husband Chad; and sister-in-law Debbie Rogers, nieces Shannon and Sarah, and nephew Robbie. Ross was beloved by a large extended family, especially his dear friends and cousins Marg and Doug Hill, and a multi-generational network including Leanne’s childhood friends Lindsay Miller, Heather Degen, and Jenny Wylie – each of whom loved him like a father. Ross is predeceased by his dad Wilfred; his mother Alice; his father- and mother-in-law Jack and Lois Rogers; and his brother-in-law, Earl Rogers. Ross was born in London, ON and spent much of his childhood in Arthur, ON where his parents owned a store. It was at his family’s shop, which had a candy counter, where Ross developed “The Recipe” (a mixture of salted peanuts and jube jubes). Fortunately, he married a jube jube connoisseur, Karen, and together, they shared The Recipe with countless friends and family over the years. Ross and Karen did everything together: Owned and operated a business for 26 years (Estate Vending and Coffee Depot); served in various capacities in the local Lions and Lioness clubs; and gave their kids an incredible, joyful life. Nothing made Ross happier than a gathering of family or friends, especially a weekend of camping or a cutthroat card party, and he could often be found sipping a Scotch, watching the goings-on, and grinning happily. Ross was passionate about driving and he took great pleasure in cruising around in his ‘58 Pontiac (although we suspect this was partially motivated by his desire to discover Southern Ontario’s best bakeries and ice cream shops). After exploring every nook and cranny of the region, Ross cheerfully dispensed driving directions – to any point, from any point, and to anyone who would listen (and sometimes to those who would not – especially his children!). Ross will be remembered for his kindness, his sweet nature, and his generosity. His family is profoundly grateful for the care he received from the remarkable people at Wellington Terrace and for the countless folks who showed support through calls, visits, notes, prayers, and sharing stories of their favourite times with Ross. Despite the ravages of Alzheimer’s, Ross maintained his loving spirit and sense of optimism and, even in the latest stages, knew he was surrounded by love and support. A celebration of life open house took place Sunday, March 4th, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, at the Elora Legion, 110 Metcalfe St, Elora. In lieu of flowers, Ross’ family would appreciate donations to Wellington Terrace long-term care home or Alzheimer Society Canada. Arrangements entrusted with the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home. www.grahamgiddyfh.com
