Obituary of Ross Durham

DURHAM, Ross -- With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Ross David Durham in the early morning of June 10, 2009, in his 89th year, with family at his side. Born to Mary Green and James Durham on the family farm in Beverley Township on May 4, 1921, Ross went on to raise his family on the same homestead, moving to St. George, then Vanessa, then Simcoe in his later years. Adoring and devoted father of Heather Durham, Lorraine Greey (Stephen LeDrew), and Meredith Durham (Bill). Loving grandfather of Ali and Meredith and step-grandfather of Lindsay, David, Michael and Victoria LeDrew. Beloved brother of Dorothy (Paul Witteveen), the late Duff (Muriel), Norma (Cecil Green), Roy (Doris), Burwell (June), Dan (Marianne), Mary (Jim Hunter), Gerald (Marianne), and the late Esther. Uncle, great-uncle, and great-great-uncle to a large and ever-growing family. Ross took great pleasure from his family, and from helping neighbours, friends, and even strangers. He could fix anything. Skating and dancing gave him a new lease on life after a near fatal illness in his fifties. He provided the music for skating and dance groups in St. George and Brantford, and belonged to a number of clubs in the area. In his final years he took delight in sponsoring music programs at Norview Lodge in Simcoe, where he spent his last three years, participating actively in every musical event that came along. Ross's family extends great appreciation to all who made him feel so at home at Norview Lodge and provided such loving care: the nurses, PSWs, and activity and support staff. Much gratitude also to Helen Jordan, who over the past year enriched Ross's life with many special outings and caring visits. In keeping with Ross's wishes, cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held at Beckett-Glaves Family Funeral Centre, 88 Brant Avenue, Brantford, ON N3T 3H3 on Saturday, June 20th. Visiting with family from 12 noon. A Service will be held in the chapel at 1pm, followed by a Reception. In lieu of flowers, stories of your times with Ross would be appreciated. (mail to Durham Family c/o Beckett-Glaves). A tree will be planted in memory of Ross in the Beckett-GlavesMemorial Forest.