Ross E. PRITCHARD

ROSS E. PRITCHARD With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ross Edward Pritchard on September 24, 2023, embraced by his three loving daughters. He was predeceased by his wife, Audrey; and their son, Jeff. Born in Toronto, Ross graduated from the University of Toronto Metallurgical Engineering Program. He met the love of his life, Audrey, on a blind date at the opening performance of the Stratford Festival in 1953. They married and spent 50 adventure-filled years together, raising their four children, Jill (Nigel Scott), Jeff (Jane), Jory (Doug Kerr) and Kelli (Alan Charky). 'Buppa' was a wonderful and loving grandfather to Teddy, Whitney, Jamie, Kyle, Brady, Michael, Emily, Dan, Ryan and Thomas; and great-'Buppa' to eight great-grandchildren. Ross had the good fortune to be born in a generation in Canada where there was abundant opportunity. He loved this country and worked hard, founding and becoming CEO of Vac Aero International in Oakville. He was honoured and grateful to work with a very talented, thoughtful team of people at Vac Aero, whom he considered family. Ross' wonderful ninety-four years on this earth were enriched by good friends, world travel, and many happy moments spent with Audrey's family in Chatham. We extend our gratitude to David Haynes for his kindness toward Dad in his declining years, and to the compassionate caregivers who supported him in the past year, especially Ola. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Food Banks Mississauga (www.foodbanksmississauga.ca) or to the Charity of Your Choice. A celebration of life is being planned for late October. Arrangements entrusted to the Alexander & Houle Funeral Home, 245 Wellington St. West, Chatham, (519) 352-2710. Online condolences may be shared at: www.alexanderandhoulefuneralhome.ca