Ronald Cameron

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Ronald Austin Cameron, peacefully with family by his side, at the Bruyère Health Greystone Transitional Care Unit on September 18, 2025.

Born February 9, 1945, Ron was raised on Cumberland Street in Ottawa. He was the second of six children and grew up in a lively household where his siblings became his lifelong friends. They remained close throughout his life, and those surviving spent treasured time with him during his illness. Ron will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend whose first instinct was always to take care of those around him.

Ron was married to his beloved wife, Heather (nee Drake), for 57 years. Together they raised their daughter Shelley (Paul Monlezun), and he poured boundless love into his three grandchildren, Lauren, Cameron and Adam. They were his passion and joy, and he doted on them endlessly. He will be deeply missed by his brothers Brian (Colleen), Carl and Barry, and by brothers-in-law Marc Deschamps (Norma) and Doug Drake (Connie). He was predeceased by his parents Austin and Mary, his sister Norma Deschamps, his brother Wayne, and his sister-in-law Marlyn Hay. His memory will live on with extended family, nieces, nephews and friends, who will always remember his laugh and the joy he brought.

He spent his career working for the federal government for what was then called the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. Outside of work, Ron loved sports, especially football, hockey and baseball. He spent many years refereeing touch football at the RA Centre. While at home, with the tv remote in hand, his favourite spot was on the couch where he would watch multiple games at once — which was frequently accompanied by some hooting and hollering!

Ron was known for a mischievous twinkle in his eye, his riddles and his endless supply of jokes. He also had a knack for offering advice for every situation (whether you wanted it or not). He was a spirited euchre player and he loved a good party, particularly when there was music and dancing involved. He would playfully boast “Who’s the Biggest? The Toughest? The STRONGEST?”. Well, in his final months, the family saw how strong he truly was, holding on longer than anyone thought possible.

The family is profoundly grateful for the compassionate and personal care Ron received from the Greystone Transitional Care Unit, where staff supported both Ron and his loved ones with dignity and kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home, 1411 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m., with words of remembrance at 2:30 p.m. This relaxed gathering is an opportunity to connect with friends and family, to share stories and laughter, and to honour Ron.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Bruyère Foundation would be greatly appreciated.