WESTCOTT, Ross Joseph Westcott

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ross Joseph Westcott on September 26, 2025, at Trillium Manor in Orillia, Ontario. Born in Orillia on May 16, 1949, Ross was the eldest of three children of Ross V. Westcott Sr. and Margaret T. Westcott (Acton). He was the beloved brother of Ronald “Ronnie” Westcott (Liz) and Teresa Lloyd (Brian).

Ross grew up in Gamebridge, Ontario, on the family farm, where a lifelong love of the land and animals took root. After attending Brock High School, he studied at Laurier University, completed Teachers’ College in Peterborough, and later pursued further studies at York University. He went on to become an elementary school teacher—patient, steady, and encouraging—who especially loved coaching and leading class trips to Algonquin Park.

Ross was a devoted husband to his late wife, Wendy. They loved to travel, first across Canada and later to sunny destinations and Europe, but they always loved returning home even more. Around the holidays, the farm came alive as Ross and Wendy hosted family gatherings that made everyone feel welcome.

He was a proud and loving father to Ryan (Kate) and Darryl (Meaghan). He was also the most adoring Grandpa to Charlotte, Benjamin (“Benny”), and Scotlyn (“Scoti”), and a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews who knew him fondly as “Uncle Ross – The Farm People”.

Farming remained his second heartbeat. With great effort and care, WenRoss Farms was meticulously renovated by Ross and Wendy, with the help of their extended family. They raised sheep, pigs, chickens, and beef cattle, constantly working to improve the farm. Ross kept detailed records that filled notebooks, scrapbooks, and spreadsheets, and he spent countless hours with his dad in the fields and barns—often with characteristic humour, as much of their herd was nicknamed “Crazy Face.”

Ross faced serious health challenges, living with Crohn’s disease from an early age and later with cancer and Parkinson’s. He met each challenge with grit and grace, refusing to let illness define him or dim his outlook on life. His unfailing positivity, quiet courage, and great sense of humour remained hallmarks of his character.

A true Canadian sports fan, Ross had a lifelong passion for the Maple Leafs, the Blue Jays, and the game of golf. In retirement, he could often be found on the course or in the yard, perfecting his swing. An avid athlete, he played ball and hockey for many years, holding down defence in the Beaverton men’s league. When autumn arrived, the farm transformed into a hunt camp, and more than once he slipped out at first light in search of an elusive deer before heading off to school. His love of sports also extended to his sons’ hockey teams, where he spent countless hours at the rink as trainer or manager. Ever the teacher, the rides home were never complete without his thoughtful recaps—what went well, and what might be even better next time.

A private visitation will be held for close friends and family, followed by burial at the Old Stone Church. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Beacon Presbyterian Church Hall on Wednesday, October 1, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. All who knew Ross are welcome to gather, share stories, and remember a good man.

If desired, memorial donations to Parkinson Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be shared at manganfuneralhome.com.