It is with deep sadness the family of Delbert Sydney Ross announce his unexpected passing at home on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the age of 81.
Delbert was the only child born to Eva (Armstrong) and Sid Ross on April 14, 1944. Delbert was the namesake of his uncle Delbert Ross Sr., owner of Ross’s Camp. When he was younger the family spent time at the camp visiting and fishing.
In August 1953, Delbert contracted Polio at 9 years old and would spend six months at the Winnipeg Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in an iron lung. It was 1 1/2 years that he would continue his recovery without the use of his right arm and limited lung capacity.
Once he was back to school he now had to learn to write and adapt to using only his left arm. He would graduate from Fort Frances High School and then went off to Toronto to take an accounting course. He then returned and started working at the Fort Frances Mill in 1965. He worked as the mail courier for 36 injury free years, retiring in 2001.
Delbert’s disability did not stop him from trying everything. He tried curling for a couple of years but his passion was for golf. He was an avid golfer right up to this past summer. He accomplished a few team scramble wins and his proudest moments would be his two hole in ones, one in 2000 on #7 at Kitchen Creek and the last one was in 2024, hole #11 at Heron Landing! His golf and coffee friends, especially Tom & Ron, were a great support and true friends he could always count on.
As a result of his exceptional care in Winnipeg at the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital he joined the Granite Lodge #446 September 27, 1966. He dedicated himself to 59 years of service and fellowship to the Masons and Shriners while holding the position of Lodge Chaplain for many years. He loved the July 1st parade zooming around in the canoe!
His commitment to service was evident throughout his life, also proudly serving also as a member of the Legion for many years.
Through these organizations he touched the lives of many and upheld values of generosity, integrity and brotherhood.
Delbert was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Edward and Sarah Armstrong and paternal grandparents Alexander and Gladys Ross; his father Sydney Ross 2017 and his mother Eva (Armstrong) 2022; as well as numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.
The Ross family were a close family that lived a quiet simple life together. His parents were so proud of Delbert and how he succeeded in life and overcame many health issues. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength that will continue to guide all who knew him. He will be lovingly remembered by his many relatives from both sides of his family, the Ross family, through his father Sid and the Armstrong family, through his mother Eva.
Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he shared, the compassion he offered, and the memories he created will remain forever in our hearts.
There will be no funeral service. Cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest with his parents in Riverview Cemetery.
A family and friend Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2026.
If anyone so wishes to make a donation please choose the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
