The family of Ross Rodgers announces the passing of this remarkable man on January 9, 2024. In his 98th year, Ross leaves behind a rich legacy of family, community involvement, and inspiration for leading a full and purposeful life.
Ross lived his entire life in Barrie, having been born the same day as Queen Elizabeth on April 21, 1926. Following in his father’s footsteps, Ross became President and one of the family owners of Ball Planing Mill, later Ball Building Centre. His unwavering commitment to hard work and integrity earned him a distinguished reputation in the building field and beyond. Ross, alongside his much-adored late wife Joy, was an active force for good in our community. Although not one to dwell on his accomplishments, we believe his community service to include: a founding member of the Barrie Jaycees and Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Rotary and Probus Clubs, President of the Barrie Central Collegiate Band Association, President of the Ontario Lumbermen’s Association, President and lifetime honourary member of the Remington Hunt Club. Ross and Joy dedicated 40 years as volunteers at RVH, extending their helping hands to St. Thomas and Collier Street Church where the Rodgers’ family has a long history. They were team members for medical missions to Central America that always held special value to them.
We will continue to marvel that all of this was possible while providing a wonderful life for five active children, namely David (Jane), Dan (Cathy), Becca (Judy), Mark (Carol), and Jay (Cindy). He was a deeply respected Poppa to Jamie, Jenny, Amy, Lucas, Sarah, Carley, and Josh Rodgers, Kyle and Todd Thornley, Dan and Derek Edwards, Joel and Carey Wass, Jeremy and Greg Oldford, and their highly-valued partners. Ross had 20 awestruck great-grandchildren; nothing lit up his bright blue eyes like these precious young people. Ross is also remembered by two remaining siblings, Susan and Sheila, along with many caring nieces and nephews.
Ross was never one to sit idly; he was a constant learner, always seeking to expand his knowledge. A source of family humour was Dad’s frequent sharing of self-help articles with each of us in turn – not always fully appreciated, depending on the topic, but certainly affectionately received. A true lover of nature, Ross particularly enjoyed the lake in front of their cherished log home engaging in canoeing, waterskiing, and sailing in his albacore at the Shanty Bay races. His diverse interests also included skiing, square dancing, wine-making, lawn bowling, golf, and travel along with a rich social life of bridge club, gourmet food club, and many a gathering in their always-welcoming homes.
Ross was a man of positivity and resilience. Even without his beloved Joy, he made the most of life, said yes to everything, and continued to have a glass of wine and a loud listen to classical music before dinner. Dad’s rare balance of discipline and indulgence also carried on to the end – regular fitness along with an enthusiastic welcome to sweets. He imparted the values of honesty, perseverance, a ‘get it done now’ attitude, and the pleasure that comes from rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty, especially if helping others. He exemplified the importance of prioritizing our partners as the foundation for maintaining a strong and inclusive family circle, a circle that will continue to hold an honoured place for him at our center. We recognize just how blessed we are with our remaining family – the respect and cooperation and caring we share is a final gift from our folks.
The family extends our thanks to Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital staff for their skilled and compassionate end-of-life care, with special mention to NP Julie Airth and 2nd floor Harvie Wing. Also, a sincere thanks to Birchmere and Whispering Pines Retirement Homes where Ross spent his last years and was always treated with dignity and respect.
A family celebration of Ross’ life will take place at a later date. In lieu of traditional condolences, the family invites contributions to Orillia Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, Collier Street United Church or a charity of your choice to honour Ross’s legacy of generousity. To extend a message to the family, please email [email protected].
Since resting peacefully was never a goal or a strength of Dad’s, rather than the conventional ‘rest in peace’, the family envisions him and Mom lovingly re-united, organizing heaven’s version of a community help group and planning their next adventure. So, instead, the farewell message is, ”May you rest AFTER you’ve happily completed your full day of activity”. And after you’ve clinked your martini glasses.
May you think of our Dad as you have a listen to a choral selection that he loved.