Honoring Ross Robertson O'Donnell: A Life of Compassion, Love, and Belief: Continue Reading

 The family of Ross Robertson O'Donnell announces his untimely and tragic death on August 25, 2005, at the age of 45, with great regret.

His sons Carter and Matthew, their extended families, innumerable friends, and the larger community who adored him all feel an incalculable emptiness in their lives as a result of his passing.

From the first moment you met Ross, you could feel his presence. It was difficult not to fall in love with him because of his warmth and effortless charisma. He was renowned for his steadfast commitment to his wife and family beyond all else.

He took great satisfaction in being a husband and father, was strongly devoted to his family, and protected those he loved. Ross ultimately showed the softer side of his nature, even toward the family dogs, which he vowed he "did not like." He was frequently seen sitting peacefully with them or sneaking them goodies.

Ross's generosity was not limited to his immediate relatives. Naturally, he devoted his time, energy, and compassion to friends, neighbors, and even complete strangers.

People were drawn to him because of his warmth and openness, and those who spent time with him knew they could rely on him for assistance in both happy and challenging times. Ross was incredibly good at making people feel important, respected, and cared about.

He was a pleasure to be around because of his sense of humor and grounded demeanor. Ross exuded sincerity whether he was telling stories, helping out on a project, or just spending time with people. He left behind memories that will always be cherished because he lived life to the fullest, loved profoundly, and contributed liberally.

The O'Donnell family is inviting everyone who knew and loved Ross to Glacier Valley Farms on August 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. to celebrate his life. In keeping with Ross's taste for comfort and simplicity, the family invites attendees to wear **casual attire—no suits—** to the service, which will be followed by refreshments.

Donations can be donated through the Ross O'Donnell Memorial Fund to Coast Mountain Academy, Carter and Matthew's school, in place of flowers or presents.

Ross is passionate about the school's Woodworking Program, which will benefit from donations. Contributions can be sent electronically to finance@coastmountainacademy.ca, with the subject line "Ross O'Donnell Memorial" included.

An email account has been set up so that friends and family can exchange recollections, pictures, and videos in order to preserve Ross's memory for Carter, Matthew, and Heather.

Contributors are encouraged to contact the same address to obtain a Google Drive link for sharing if files are too big to send by email.

We will remember Ross Robertson O'Donnell as a kind, devoted, humorous, and giving man. Many people were impacted by his life, and his absence will be sorely missed. However, his legacy will endure because of the innumerable people he touched, the community he helped create, and the family he loved unconditionally.