Ron Armstrong was everything a big brother should be. He was caring and protective of me throughout my life, but when it came time that he knew he wouldn’t be around a lot longer, he handed me responsibility he had always had himself. As the baby of the family, being 15 years younger than Ron, this showed his confidence in me and that I would have to take the reins in handling many things now.

Ron showed his care and concern for all family members in many ways. Having no wife or children of his own, he enjoyed visiting the children and grandchildren of his two sisters. Although his sister Doreen pre-deceased him, I know how much she loved her big brother too. She would have had many wonderful memories to share if she were here.

When I was going through family photos, I noticed that Ron was pictured with his nieces (Brenda and Paige) and nephews (Marty and Larry) enjoying games and activities at family functions. This continued on with his great-nephews, Ashley and Christian. They enjoyed his company for Christmas last year. Unfortunately this year he wasn’t well enough to attend although he said he had been looking forward to it.

Although Ron was a serious and conscientious person, he also had a great sense of humour. He was always telling jokes and sending them to us by e-mail. He loved languages and would often come out with funny things. One time years ago when I phoned him, he sounded a bit winded and dismayed and I asked him what was wrong. He replied, “Oh, I was just trying to wrestle a milk bag into submission”. The little things in life sometimes perplexed him but he handled the big things with great diligence and ease.

Ron accepted people as they were no matter how different or unusual he thought their behaviour might be. Rather than being critical, he might just shrug and say, “Well, I wouldn’t do that myself”. He made many friends over the years who wished they could be here today. Robin and Des, for example, expressed their condolences immediately. I know he will be greatly missed.

I have to mention that Ron’s mother Beatrice would be very devastated if she knew about his death. She is 95 and her health and memory are very poor now, so I decided not to tell her. However, I did do something in honour of her for Ron’s funeral. In the past whenever she had to go to a funeral the first thing she would do is get her hair done. I always thought that would be the last thing I would think of, but this time I went and got my hair done for her. I also wanted to emulate Ron’s example of not judging people. In fact, my hairdresser told me that many people do that. You’re never too old et cetera.

In conclusion I would like to say that this is one of the saddest times of my life. As with my sister, I will miss being able to call up Ron just to hear his voice and share news. Whatever will I do without him? Carry with grace and strength as he did throughout his life. Rest peacefully, Ron, and enjoy the company of Our Lord.

Gail Armstrong