John Ross Welsh

Ross Welsh, beloved husband of Jane Welsh, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly on March 13, 2026. Ross was a devoted father to David (Jennifer) and Shannon (Rob), and a proud and loving Papa to Alex, Sarah (Johannes), Claire (Toby), Katie (Joel), Bethany, and Ross. He was recently thrilled to become a great-Papa to Bennett.

Ross is also survived by his brother, Bill Welsh, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Irene Welsh, his brothers Jim and Rob Welsh, and his sister Sandra Mead.

Ross grew up in Brantford, Ontario. At the age of 20, he met the love of his life, Jane Tizzard, at Sauble Beach. They married in 1962 and began building a life centered on family. Their first child, David, arrived in May 1963, followed by Shannon in June 1966.

Family was always at the heart of Ross and Jane’s life together. They shared countless gatherings over family dinners, camping trips, summer trips to Sauble Beach, and later at the family cottage in Pike Bay, Ontario. Ross was a devoted father who rarely missed a chance to cheer on his children at their many sports and activities, and he continued that tradition with his grandchildren, supporting and celebrating each of them with pride. While he treasured his roles as husband and father, and uncle, being “Papa” to his grandchildren brought him immense joy.

Ross stared his working life with Bell telephone and had lots of stories of his days working on the line crew there. He then transitioned into a successful career in the insurance industry, beginning with Metropolitan Life in Brantford and later retiring with Great-West Life. His career took the family to Toronto, Calgary, and then he worked in London, Ontario, before he and Jane ultimately returned to Calgary for retirement. They spent many happy years in Priddis Greens, where they formed lifelong friendships, and for the past decade they enjoyed the strong sense of community they found in Discovery Ridge.

Ross had many interests and hobbies that filled his life with music, friendship, and activity. He loved singing in choirs, including barbershop groups, the Red Deer Lake United Church Choir and the High Country Chorale, and had been a proud member of the Masonic Lodge. He also enjoyed golfing, tennis, billiards, cribbage, bridge, crossword puzzles, reading, traveling and following professional sports. Ross also took great pleasure in framing Jane’s artwork, canoe trips and shore lunches with friends, as well as bringing joy to others as a wonderful Santa during the holidays.

Ross was an extraordinary role model to all who knew him. He was a man of strong faith and was an active member of the United Church throughout his life. Ross taught his family the importance of kindness, friendship, forgiveness, humility, and community. He taught us to apologize when we got it wrong. He believed there was always room for one more at the table, he had a deep love for animals (especially dogs), and showed through his actions the value of giving back.

When life’s waters became rough, he reminded those around him to hold onto each other. Ross will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

In honour of Ross, donations may be made to Children Believe, a charity he was proud to support, or to a charity of your choice.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Ross at Red Deer Lake United Church on Saturday, April 11th, at 1:30 pm.