Ruth Frances Pike

Ruth Frances Pike (nee Weir) died on April 11 at her home, with family by her side. She was born in Scarborough in 1922 and celebrated her 100th birthday on November 18 last year, surrounded by her children, multiple grandchildren, relatives and friends. She is pre-deceased by her beloved husband Norm, who passed away in 2001.

Ruth grew up during the Great Depression of the 1930’s, which she always referred to as the “dirty-thirties”. It had a profound influence on her life, and she always urged her children to finish what was on their plates! Ruth and Norm married in 1942, and had five children in two batches: first James and Marian, then nine years passed before Douglas, Valerie and Daniel arrived in quick succession. She never explained why...

Hers was a busy and active life, centering around her family. She loved being at the family cottage, where she enjoyed being in nature and just watching her children (and later grandchildren) grow. Norm’s job at Air Canada allowed them to pursue their passion for travel. Travelling with kids can be challenging, but Ruth managed it with patience and composure. They also had an active social life, revolving mainly around their many friends who shared food, drink and good company at the cottage. Many nights were spent around a campfire or playing cards around the dinner table. She was also well known for her famous cream-puffs which were a staple at Boxing Day festivities.

Ruth’s life spanned a long and tumultuous time in history, with changes that are incomprehensible to most of us. She was always flexible and adaptable, embracing new challenges and perspectives. In later years, having outlived her husband and most of her siblings and friends, her world revolved more and more around her ever-increasing family, of which she was the undisputed matriarch.

Ruth is survived by her five children: James (Evi), Marian Simpson (Warren (d)), Douglas, Valerie Stormer (Chuck) and Daniel (Trish Lewis); nine grandchildren: Veronica, Gordon (Fenella), Brent (Stacy), Elaine (Ian), Andrew, Brian (Alanda), Craig, Keith (Nika) and Eric, as well as seven great-grandchildren and her sister Nancy McCowan. She is pre-deceased by brothers Neil, Jack, Blake and Chess Weir, and sister Peggy Lawrie.

A memorial visitation for Ruth will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Andrews Community Funeral Centre - Bramalea Chapel, 8190 Dixie Road, Brampton, ON L6T5N9, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM.

The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day,

But the love and memory of you,

Shall never pass away.

Donations in Ruth's memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society, Autism Canada, or the Canadian Wildlife Federation,

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.andrewscommunityfuneralcentre.com for the Pike family.