Obituary of William Charles (Billy) Ross, River Ryan

It is with great sadness that we, the family of William Charles "Billy" Ross, born on August 21, 1960, in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, passed away suddenly on January 8, 2025, at home. He was 64 years old.

Born in New Waterford, he was the son of the late Harvey and Jackie (MacDonald) Ross. From a young age, Billy displayed a remarkable aptitude for mechanics; building his first car before he was even old enough to drive. His passion for motorcycles and his reputation as a jack-of-all-trades defined much of his life. After completing high school, Billy attended vocational school in Sydney, where he studied automotive mechanics. This education laid the foundation for a diverse and accomplished career.

Billy began his professional journey with the Cape Breton Development Corporation as an Electrician before transitioning to Millwright. He worked there for 18 years and became a Red Seal millwright. He later transitioned to operating CNC lathes in a machine shop in Sydport before taking on a role with the Cape Breton Residential Society, caring for residents in assisted living. Ever adaptable, Billy pursued a new path as a pipefitter in Alberta's oil sands, earning his Red Seal certification in the trade. Eventually, he returned to his roots as a millwright, spending nearly two decades working in northern Alberta.

Billy's life was marked by hard work, ingenuity, and an unwavering dedication to his family and craft. Bill spent much of his free time enjoying life’s simple pleasures, often driving his Mustang convertible with a large tea in hand—made just the way he liked it, with one milk and three and a half sugars—while listening to his favorite music.

Above all, Bill cherished his children, Rebecca and Aaron, who were his greatest pride and joy. He devoted himself to creating unforgettable memories with them as they grew up. Whether it was crafting a sled from conveyor belting to tow behind the ski-doo, building an ingenious four-tier Pepsi bottle rocket launcher, or sharing countless chats, laughs, and life lessons, Bill’s love for his children was boundless.

A lifelong animal lover, Bill cared for a wide variety of pets over the years, including cats, dogs, birds, ferrets, fish, turtles, horses and more. He found joy in nature’s rhythms—the sound of frogs in the summer evenings, the beauty of sunsets, and the warmth of a bonfire under the stars. He also loved gazing at planes overhead and imagining their far-off destinations.

Bill’s vibrant spirit and love for life touched everyone who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who shared in his adventures and laughter. May his legacy of love and joy bring comfort to all who remember him. He took great joy in seeing his two grandchildren, Charlee and Will, growing and learning. He was always so proud of those he loved. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the memories shared by those who knew him.

He will be forever missed by his loving children, Rebecca Ross (Dave Gillis) and Aaron Ross (Lindsay Currie); his cherished grandchildren, Charlee Ross and William Gillis; his sister, Marilyn (Dan) Kalbhenn; uncle and friend, Lorne (Willena) MacDonald; longtime friend, Eldon (Michelle) Merry, as well as his partner, Joanne, all residing in New Waterford, as well as many other family members and friends.

He is predeceased by his parents, Harvey and Jackie Ross as well as many uncles, aunts and cousins.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from noon until the time of the service at 2 p.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Rev. Duncan Roach officiating. A reception will follow in the funeral home. Donations in his memory may be made to the Mental Health Foundation or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia. Condolences for the family can be sent to: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. 

May his memory bring comfort to all who loved him.