Ross Walker Leigh

Ross Walker Leigh of Kelso Villa passed peacefully, at the Grey Bruce Regional Health Centre, Owen Sound on Monday, August 16, 2021 in his 100th year.  Ross was the beloved husband of Patricia Leigh (Kelly).  Loving step-father of Dean and Cynthia Finlay, Chris and Eva Finlay, and Kathleen and Mylene Finlay.  Adored grandfather of Caitlin (Strunc) and Aden, Christian, Connor, and Liam, and Neve.  He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Margaret Leigh (Walker) and sisters Grace and Joyce (Vito Messina).

Born in Toronto August 29 1921, Ross had an interest in nearly everything life had to offer and was committed to leading a life of service and was a person of deep faith.

During the Second World War Ross attended the University of Toronto.  He joined the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve beginning in June 1944, where he developed a love for all things nautical.  He attained the rank of sub-lieutenant.  He left the Navy in October 1945, and returned to U of T to complete his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1946, followed by a Bachelor of Education in 1947.

Ross became a high school mathematics and physical education teacher at the Mimico High School from 1947 to 1958, and Lorne Park Secondary School from 1958 to 1962.  He was recruited to OSCVI to teach in 1962.  He became a vice-principal in 1966, and principal in 1977.  In addition to his exemplary teaching, he coached the football and basketball teams at all of these schools.  He was also president of the Ontario Mathematics Commission, and Chairman of the OSSTF Board of Regents in 1971.  He retired from teaching in 1980 and began a second career as a real estate agent for GTO Real Estate.

In addition to his commitment to education, Ross actively pursued his favorite outdoor hobbies of golfing, skiing and boating.  He was a member of the Owen Sound Golf and Country Club and the Owen Sound Yacht Club.

Ross and Patricia were married in 1983 and spent several years in Sauble Beach before returning to Owen Sound.  They had many adventures together and were passionate about seeing the world from the seat of a bicycle, and participated in many cycling tours throughout the US and Europe.

Ross had a love and gift for music which he was very happy to share, playing piano and singing bass in various barbershop quartets and church choirs.

His community volunteerism was extensive including organizations such as; the Kiwanis Club, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Habitat for Humanity, and Meals on Wheels.  He enthusiastically utilized his nautical skills and academic abilities to volunteer on an ocean research ship for Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute on the seas south of Chile.

Ross’s family wishes to express their gratitude for the care and compassion by Dr. Brooke Edwards and the nursing staff of Unit 4-1 of the GBRHC.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date with interment at Greenwood Cemetery.

In memory of Ross, donations to Habitat for Humanity or St. Georges Anglican Church Owen Sound for the Friends of Mudtown would be appreciated by the family.

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