Ross Aiken

Ross William Aiken, born on March 27, 1946, slipped from this world on October 18, 2025, held tightly in the embrace of two sons who loved him without reservation, and owed him an invaluable debt of gratitude.

What do you say about a man who is everything? He leaves behind a better world in every part of it that he touched. Ross was a faithful father and proud grandfather, whose life was characterized by an unwavering commitment to his family and an innate ability to bring inclusivity, respect, empathy and equality to all those around him.

He is survived by his cherished sons, Josh (Leia) and Jude (Crystal), who carry forward his ethic and values. Ross also leaves behind six adored grandchildren: Shaye (Yawylak), Hero, Juno, Harper, Ronin, and Copland (Aiken), each of whom held a very special place in his heart. His family was his pride and joy, and he took immense satisfaction in watching them grow, supporting their ambitions, and celebrating their achievements.

From his early days, Ross’s connection to music was strong. He was a member of The National Youth Orchestra as a tuba player. He attended music camp at every opportunity. Later in life he was able to work his passion by transitioning from elementary school teacher to music teacher and choir director until his retirement. His proudest moments were when former students returned to thank him for his guidance and the calm presence he had provided them. He won numerous awards and distinctions for his choirs. They performed for provincial and federal dignitaries at venues including the famed Massey Hall. Ross was also an excellent bass soloist in his own right.

He was a first rate single father, he coached sports that he didn’t understand when nobody else would, he was involved in politics at every level, he was a condominium board chair, he was a respected member of Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, he won a 15 year provincial service award for being a loyal and longtime volunteer with the Toronto Japanese Garden Club, he was a long time season pass holder, and devoted fan of the Blue Jays, he has created a family tree containing over 70,000 names. His passions were as diverse as they were intense.

The true story, though, of Ross’s life was a love story. After a very trying first marriage, he met the woman he was meant to be with all along. Their talents and abilities complimented one another. Their imperfections offset themselves. And they never looked forward to a moment apart. They had loved each other for many years, and made it official with their dream wedding in Bermuda in 1996. A trip they spoke of often and fondly into their final years. They spent every day enjoying each other, meeting new people, traveling the open road, exploring lands abroad and visiting with, and helping out friends and family.

Liberated now from the loss of freedom and independence he suffered over the last ten plus years, and from the increasing pain from his ailments, Ross is now reunited with his beloved Zibby, and their favourite “child”, precious longtime family cat, Tabitha Twitchet Grove Aiken. Ross loved Zibby so much that he followed her into the dark only 111 days after her passing. He died of a broken heart, and we like to think of him as being where he wants to be. We like to picture them back on the open road together. “They wanted the highway. They’re happier there today”.

He is also preceded in death by his siblings, Roger Aiken and Joan Aiken, as well as Robert Aiken, whose memories remain treasured by all those who loved them. He very much loved, and was loved by Robert’s extended family.

A unique presence in the lives of those around him, Ross was known for his dedication to, and organization of everything he set his mind to, his fierce commitment and loyalty, and his willingness to face life as it was, with dignity, and to never shirk on a commitment, a responsibility, or a promise. He was a model of a man who inspired his two sons, his family, and countless students, co-workers, friends and acquaintances to value being more respectful toward one another, the nobility of hard work, and the difference it makes just showing up. Like he did every day of his life.

For those of you who enriched their lives, and those who had your lives enriched by Ross and Zibby, our family is eternally grateful. You supported them, encouraged them, lifted them up, and filled out the vivid tapestry of the life they created. You were the stars of their stories, and in their world. They have now ascended into the firmament. Tonight please take a moment to look up at those stars and remember that their spirit lives on through all of us. Thank you.

We suffer distress in direct relation to the magnitude of the loss we endure. This one has shaken us to our core. We console ourselves with the knowledge that the pain would not be so intense had we not been so lucky as to have that one of a kind father.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal,

Love leaves a memory no one can steal”

Cremation has taken place. At Ross’s request, no service will be held. If you desire to make a tribute or send flowers for Ross, please consider making a donation to The Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario (1-888-851-7376 or psso.com). It would be greatly appreciated.