It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ross Frederick Armstrong, who passed away at the age of 91, shortly after celebrating his 91st birthday.

Born on March 22, 1935, in Toronto, Ontario, Ross was the beloved son of Aileen and Frederick Armstrong, and dear brother of Kent Armstrong (predeceased), and brother-in-law to Judy Armstrong.

Ross pursued his medical education at the University of Toronto, graduating from medical school in 1959. Although he began his medical training in pediatrics, his curiosity and passion for learning led him to specialize in pediatric pathology—a discipline that would define his long and distinguished career. He worked as a missionary doctor in British Columbia and Alberta before settling in London, Ontario, where he lived for most of his life and served, for 35 years, at Victoria Hospital. 

Even in retirement, Ross remained intellectually engaged, often reading medical journals and keeping up with advances in his field.

Ross is lovingly remembered by his wife, Ellie, with whom he shared nearly 40 years of marriage.  Ellie was holding his hand when he passed.  He is also survived by his children, Eleanor (John) and Robert (Marnie), and his grandchildren, Emily, Lauren, and Mitchell, of whom he was very proud. He was also a devoted stepfather and step-grandfather to Christine (Michael) and Karen, and their children, Lindsay, Matthew, Nicole, Sidney, Katie, Andrew and Christopher.

Beyond his professional life, Ross and his wife, Ellie, shared a lifelong love of travel and adventure. He enjoyed staying active and social—playing hockey in his younger years and remaining an enthusiastic fan throughout his life. He was also an accomplished bridge player, valuing both the challenge and the camaraderie the game brought.

Ross enjoyed good food and the company of others. In his later years, he especially appreciated dining and spending time with fellow residents at Chartwell Willow Retirement Residence, where he formed meaningful connections within a warm and welcoming community.

A quiet and thoughtful man, Ross did not speak often, but when he did, his words reflected deep knowledge, insight, and care. He valued companionship and connection, and was appreciated for his gentle presence and thoughtful perspective. Above all, he cherished his family and took great pride in their many accomplishments. His curiosity, kindness, and quiet dedication will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ross was a longtime member of Holy Family Catholic Church in London, Ontario. In 2024, he relocated to Maple Ridge, British Columbia, to be closer to family. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church at a later date.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the medical team at Ridge Meadows Hospital, with special gratitude to the teams in the Rehabilitation Unit and Intensive Care Unit for their compassionate care. The family also sincerely thanks the staff at Chartwell Willow Retirement Residence for their kindness and support.