A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend departed this life the same way as she lived her life, on her own terms. She passed suddenly but peacefully on September 8th, 2023 at the age of 78.
Born to William & Olga Thompson on April 16, 1945, she was also the eldest of seven siblings, Doris Murray, David Thompson, Ronnie Thompson (deceased), Gordon Thompson, George Thompson, & Jessie Field (deceased). Mom was predeceased by her husband Russell Wheildon in 2008 and is survived by her two children Merilee Wheildon (Les Griffith), and Heather Prescott (Jason); and her two grandchildren, Grace and Morgan Prescott.
Throughout her life, she encountered many triumphs and tribulations but always managed to come out on top. She loved spending time in her gardens and had quite the affinity for animals. Our house growing up always had at least one fur sibling and at many times could have been described as a small zoo including dogs, cats, birds and even a rabbit. Most winter Sunday nights she could be found cheering on her favourite hockey team the North Bay Trappers/Centennials/Battalion. She began her career in banking but eventually chose to run a daycare from her home where she became the mom figure to many children over the years. Mom was also the local Avon Lady for over 40 years, and upon retiring from child minding worked as a product sampler at Walmart and other local retailers.
When Mom made up her mind about something, there was nothing standing in her way for achieving it. Her strong will and feisty personality defined her and continued right until the end. Although she faced many medical hurdles in the last year, her spitfire personality remained until her body no longer had the spark to continue the fire.
As per her wishes there will be no funeral service. Mom will finally be reunited with Dad, and together they will be laid to rest at Markdale Cemetery on Thursday, September 14th 2023. Family & friends are invited to attend the graveside service at 12:30 p.m. Afterwards, all are invited to join us at Steve’s Restaurant in Markdale where we will provide food and refreshments and an opportunity to share memories of Ruth and her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mom’s honour can be made to the Canadian Diabetic Association or to the North Bay Humane Society. Funeral arrangements entrusted to MARTYN FUNERAL HOME (705) 472-8810.