Ross Kercher of Hensall passed away peacefully at South Huron Hospital on Sunday, September 6, 2015 in his 90th year. Born in 1926 in the family home, Ross farmed the family farm in Tuckersmith Township until his retirement to Hensall. He was a man of few words, but deep thoughts who enjoyed intense intellectual conversations. He was a long-time member of Hensall United Church, where he attended faithfully, a Mason and a Shriner, as well as a member of the Sky Harbour Modelers Club, Goderich. He loved to dance, play cards, and enjoyed vegetable gardening.
In earlier years he owned and flew his own Aeronca Champion airplane from the airstrip on his farm, while belonging to Flying Farmers of Exeter. For many decades he had a passion for taking apart and fixing things, especially electronic equipment and could be counted upon to repair or craft almost anything. Ross, a lifelong learner, could never satisfy his thirst for knowledge and attended weekly Western’s Seniors’ learning sessions in London. For many years, Ross and his sister, Doris, have attended all the performances at the Blyth Theatre and Huron Country Playhouse.
Ross will be greatly missed by his twin sister, Doris Jeffery, Staffa, and his older sister, Margaret Jordan and her husband, Jim of London. He was Uncle Ross to Judy Jeffery-Chambers, and her husband, Gord of St. Marys, to Ruth May, and her husband, Steve of London, and to Bill Jeffery, and his partner, Cathy Tennant of Toronto. He was a Great-Uncle to Jacob May, Banff, Alberta, Alex, Jordan, and Joseph May, London, Janessa Chambers, Toronto, Zack Chambers, Ottawa, Stephen Jeffery, Fort McMurray, Alberta, and Sam Jeffery, Toronto. Ross was a second father to Dr. Jan Pennycook, and her husband, Don Dunsmore, of London, and second grandfather to Blake Pennycook, and his wife, Celia Jutras, of Thunder Bay, Kate Pennycook White, and her husband, Craig White, of Mount Brydges, Drew Pennycook and his partner Gillian Sonnenberg of London.
Ross was predeceased by his parents, Herb and Myrtle Kercher (Wright) and brother-in-law, Spencer Jeffery.
Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service and burial will be held in the near future.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or Hensall United Church.
KERCHER: Ross of Hensall
Haskett Funeral Homes
Condolence From: Wendi Schwindt
So very sorry, Doris, to read of Ross’ passing. I enjoyed my monthly chats with him about your theatre trips. God bless…
Condolence From: Bryan & Karen Chambers
Doris, Margaret and families,
Bryan and I would like to express our condolences at the passing of Ross. In the days ahead, he will surely be missed by all of you. May God continue to be your source of strength at this time.
Condolence From: Claire and Winona Hoffman
Doris and family,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother Ross.Our heart and prayers go out to you at this sad time.
Claire & Winona.
Condolence From: George & Joyce Vivian
Margaret, Doris & Family: Sorry to read about the passing of your brother, Ross. You will miss him but treasure all your memories.
Condolence From: Larry and Joyce Black
Doris and family – Very sorry to read of the passing of your twin brother Ross. He will be very much missed by you and your sister and extended families. I have fond memories of your brother and entire family and have known you for about 50 years and always enjoyed our Thursday visits. Take care of each other and wanted you to know we are thinking of you at this sad time. Joyce and Larry Black
Condolence From: Gwen (Britton) O’Rourke
Sorry to hear of Ross’s passing Doris, you will surely miss him. But what an interesting and smart life he has had. Be very proud of him
Condolence From: Carol & Craig Davidson
Doris & family:
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest & most sincerest sympathy is extended to you & your family. Please know that you are in our thoughts & prayers. Your treasured memories will always keep Ross close at heart.
Sincerely,
Carol & Craig