Dr. James Frederick Ross passed away peacefully at home in Harmony on August 31, surrounded by loved ones. Jim was born in Sussex N.B., the son of Frederick Ross and Etta Butland Ross RN. He was the last surviving member of his family.
Jim began his university education at UNB but was interrupted by World War 2 when he shifted gears to train as a paratrooper, receiving the rank of Company Sergeant Major. Just as his troop, the 1st Canadian Parachute Brigade was to be deployed, the war ended and he returned to university to fulfill the dream inspired by his mother to become a doctor.
Jim graduated from Dalhousie University Medical School in 1951. Following postgraduate training in Halifax and Toronto, he continued his studies as a travelling fellow in England and Europe. He became the first qualified plastic surgeon in the Maritime Provinces, beginning his practice in 1959. Jim was instrumental in the creation of the first two burn units in the Maritime Provinces. He specialized in the treatment of accident victims, cleft lip and palate reconstructions and burn treatments. He established the foundations of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Dalhousie in 1972.
Jim was the author of numerous medical articles and served as President of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons in 1982. He was committed to encouraging and supporting students in their medical studies and created a nursing scholarship at UNB in his mother’s name.
His surgical skills were internationally renowned. Jim was hosted by the Czech government, to thank him for his dedication and medical attention entrusted to plane crash patients of the Czech crash that occurred in Gander in 1967.
In 1976, Jim and three of his colleagues were invited by the Chinese Plastic Surgeon’s Association, a communist country at the time, to share medical knowledge and procedures. This information was invaluable at the time and augmented our medical techniques here tremendously.
Jim met Elizabeth Douglas, MD.F(C)PAED, in 1947 in medical school, married in 1950 and began a lifelong love story. Following his retirement Jim and Betty moved to their Harmony cottage which many would say was his favorite place on earth. He and Betty operated a small farm and entertained friends from far and wide with food from their expansive garden.
Jim’s hobbies included studying wood turning and he assembled a beautiful collection of wood art. He was a voracious reader; his particular interest was in military history. He was a proud supporter of the arts and local community projects.
For 18 years, Jim and Betty holidayed in New Zealand and established lifelong friendships there.
Jim had a genuine interest and love for the people in his community whether it be the hospital, university or the community in which he lived. He always took the opportunity to chat and share a story. His kindness and generosity were the hallmarks of his life. Anyone who ever met Jim would agree he was a great man. His compassion and dedication for patients, family and friends made him special.
He is survived by, his loving wife Elizabeth; son, Andrew (Janice); daughter, Susan and treasured grandsons Daniel and David; sister in law Muriel; nieces Audrey Lee, Kate, Joanne, Peg, Sheila and Heather and nephews Blair, and Rob.
He was predeceased by sisters Audrey Cummings RN, Thelma Marr, and Dorothy Friars RN..
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool. A memorial service will be held Monday, September 5, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. from North Queens Fire Hall, Caledonia. Reverend Carol Smith officiating. Reception to follow. Burial will be at a later date.
The Ross Family is grateful for the tender care Jim received from his caregivers which allowed him to remain in his home until his death. Special thanks to the first responders of the North Queens Volunteer Fire Department for their care and assistance.
Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to North Queens Volunteer Fire Department or North Queen’s Heritage House Museum. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.chandlersfuneral.com. In addition to Dr. Ross’ accomplishments is a documentary film produced by the CBC called “The Other Child” which chronicles a day in the life of burned children at the IWK and can be found on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLxhYHt8qHU
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Joe Potter
A loss to the community as well as his family. RIP DR.
Charlene Cain
Sue and Family;
So very sorry for the loss of your Dad and Husband. His suffering is now over.
Wishing I were able to make the trek to Queens Co. for Monday’s service. I am so pleased I got to meet your dad Sue. He seemed a very kind and gentle man. Thinking of you. Sending hugs over the miles.
Deborah Ruggles
Dearest Betty and family, So sad to hear of Jim’s passing. Mabel spoke so highly of him when I boarded with her in 1984. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this painful time. Deborah Ruggles
Barb Dowding(Lohnes)
i am so very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was an interesting and lovely person. Heartfelt condolences.
Frank @ Janet Smith
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad . Sending our deepest sympathy and condolences to all the Families.
James Evans
To Andrew and family I am so sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with u in this difficult time of sorrow.
Andrew I was one of your forestry students at nscc lunenburg campus 1988-1989.
Del, Mary & Rodney Weare
So sorry to learn of Jim’s passing. He was a man well liked by every one who knew him. We send our full condolence at this time. With love, Del, Mary & Rodney
Stuart & Margaret Huestis
Betty & family
Our deepest condolences to you in your loss of Jim. He had a long distinguished life. We worked many hours in our respective depts at the old VG
Stuart Huestis & Margaret
Kentville , NS
Chris MacNaughton
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was always such a kind gentleman who loved to talk and support others in their own journeys in their lives. One of a kind fellow who will be dearly missed. Thinking of your family during this difficult time.
Jim Baker
So sorry for your loss Sue, I know you loved your Dad very much.
Arthur&Patsy
to the Ross Family, so sorry for your loss,have known Jim for many years,was a wonderful friend and neighbour. He will be greatly missed by all,but you have your memories R.I.P Jim
Anne Shay Kempton
My sincere condolences in the loss of your loved one. I remember Jim well as a teenager growing up in Caledonia. My father, Earle Shay stabled two ponies of his and Betty’s’ for some time. My younger brother and sister rode and spoiled the ponies, Peggy and Cricket. Jim was a kind man with a gentle spirit. He will be missed by all who knew him and had the opportunity to meet and get to know. May he rest in eternal peace. God Bless you all as you mourn your loss.
Vivian DeMerchant
Susan, My sympathies to you and your family.
Judy Flemming and Peter Rogers
Dear Betty,Sue,Andrew and family we were so sad to hear the news of Jim’s passing.As with every one else that knew Jim we really liked him too.I met him through working at the hardware store when he would come to the summer house.liked him immediately and always looked forward to the friendly chats we would have.Peter also enjoyed their conversations about woodworking and gardening etc.and we both loved being invited to the house to look at his woodwork or check out the garden and always come away with something to cook for supper.A life well lived is our feeling on Dr.Ross.He will be missed and also remembered by all who were lucky to know him.Our sympathy and love to the family.Peter and Judy.
Suzanne Frail
Dear Betty and family.
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful man and I was very happy to have him as my plastic surgeon, as a little girl, after a motor vehicle accident. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Hugs, Suzanne
Nancy Hollywood
Dear Susan, although I did not know your dad; I am so sorry for your loss.
Bonnie Labrador
To Dr. Ross’ Family
Very sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Bonnie Labrador
Greg Crouse
So sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. He was well liked and our mom Polly really enjoyed enjoyed his company.
Cheers
Greg
Terry & Sheila
Jim was a great guy. He always had time for a quick chat or just to pass the time of day. His absence will follow us for a long time. In our thoughts & prayers. Remember him with great memories as will we all.
Robyn Bertling
It was an honour to be even a small part of Jim’s life. Not only was he one of the most generous souls, he shared a multitude of knowledge and buckets full of grace and compassion for everyone. I will miss his kind voice, contagious laughter, and overall passion for life. He left a stamp on the hearts of everyone he met and will be remembered for the feeling he left in our hearts from the joy of his company. Goodbye to a wonderful man. Thank you for everything Jim.
Peter Blunden
Suzy, Andy, Betty and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest and sincere condolences go out to you all. Thinking of Jim and all of you this weekend.
Alan Cobb
Hello Betty and family. My condolences on Jim’s passing. He surely lived a life of kindness and caring. We are all the better for having known Jim and the world is a better place because of his contributions.
Dr Douglas A Eisner
Dear Betty, Andrew and Susan:
We were saddened to learn of the death of Jim You are in our hearts and prayers at this time.. Jim and I shared in the development of the cleft palate programme in Nova Scotia. He was a pioneer in the field of plastic surgery and we are indebted to him for his contribution to the health care in Nova Scotia
Jackie and Doug Eisner
Audrey Lee, Adam and Laura Bennett
Sincere condolences to Aunt Betty, Andy and Sue. Uncle Jim will be missed but the memories and good thoughts will live on. I was so happy to have spent some time visiting in August.
Fred and Janette Veinot
Sincere sympathy to Betty and family. Many years have passed, but I still remember the trips from Halifax to Caledonia you provided when I was at VGH training. He was a special man, and touched many lives.
Fred and Janette (Lohnes) Veinot
Cherie Collins
Sue, your Dad was a gifted and good person. I grieve for your loss and my thoughts go out to you, your mother and brother. My parents wish to extend their condolences as well.
Ruth & Peter Williamson
Dear Andrew
We were very sorry to read about the death of your father. From his obituary, it is evident that his life was well lived, he devoted himself to others and his loss will be felt by so many.
Please accept our sympathy, Andrew, Janice, Daniel and David. Aren’t we blessed to have good memories. We can enjoy them anytime we wish.
Rhonda Himmelman
Dear Sue, Andy, Danny and David, So very sorry to hear of your loss. Your dad, grandfather accomplished so many great things in his life. His knowledge, wisdom and heart are evident in you all, especially Danny and David ! Thoughts and prayers
Rhonda
Scott Hawkes
Dr. Ross was one of the greatest residents of North Queens,truly a community minded person who had time for everyone. He was true to the North Queens Fire Association to which all members are truly touched by all he and his family has done for our organization. I will miss seeing Jim at the firefighters breakfasts and and community events. I remember many years of going to Harmony Lake to swim at his spot on the lake with my cousins. Rest easy Dr Ross, you have done a terrific job with all you have accomplished in your many years on this earth. It has been an honor to have known you.
Shannon Cobb
Dear Betty and family, my deepest condolences and thoughts are with you. I was saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. I have many fond memories of Jim – up at the farm and at the cottage, touring the gardens, watching hummingbirds from the porch, swimming at the lake, talking about my studies. Jim was always so warm and kind to me since I was a kid. He will be greatly missed.
Joanie Reardon
To have known and worked with Dr. Jim Ross as he performed miracles at The Children’s Hospital, was truly my good fortune.
He was a brilliant leader in Plastic Surgery, humbly accepted accolades from around the world.
Loved and respected by all who knew him.
Janet Wile and Grant Reeves
Dear Andrew, Janice, Daniel, and David: We were so sorry to read of Dr. Ross’ passing. He was a remarkable man. He will be missed.
Marilyn 'McGinty' Cobb
Betty & family,
I am very sorry to hear that Jim has passed away. So glad I was able to have a visit with you both this past July. I have many good memories of times at your home & at Janet & Clarence’s. My thoughts are with you all.
With great affection,
Marilyn (& Erin too)
Mary MacAdam BN/RN
My deepest condolences on the passing of Dr.Ross, I worked with him in the OR at the VG from 1979
until his retirement. He always spoke highly and lovingly of Betty, and his family. My blessings to all.
Jo-Anne Morton
Aunt Betty and family
So very sorry to hear about Uncle Jim. My heart goes out to you,Susan ,Andrew,Janice and family.
Our thoughts are with you in this very sad time. He will be missed
Hugs
Jo-Anne, Wayne and family
From the Verge Twins (Joanne Verge & Janice Galipeau)
To Mrs. James Ross, family & loved ones,
We are so sorry for your loss.
Dr. Ross will always be remembered by us and thought of often as he saved our lives. Dr. Ross performed many hours of plastic and reconstructive surgery on the both of us. We were seriously burnt at the age of 5 at a Halloween party in 1960. We spend a long time at the Children’s Hospital and, years following, at the VG under his professional care.
“We will NEVER, NEVER forget what Dr. Ross did for us!”
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
The Verge Twins
Joanne Verge and Janice Galipeau (Verge)
Halifax, NS
jangalipeau@gmail.com
Doug Merry
Betty & family – Jim has succeeded in earning ‘his wings’ a second time.
To laugh often and love much;
to win the respect of intelligent persons
and the affection of children;
to earn the approbation of honest critics
and to endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty;
to find the best in others;
to give of one’s self;
to leave the world a little better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch
or a redeemed social condition;
to have played and laughed with enthusiasm
and sung with exultation;
to know that even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived,
this is to have succeeded.
-“Success” by Ralph Waldo Emerson
I shall miss my Legion comrade!
Terri Kottwitz (Moore)
Dr. Betty Ross and family
So sad to hear the news about Dr. Jim Ross. I have such fond memories from my childhood that included Dr. Jim Ross and the whole Ross family. My thoughts will be with you all tomorrow.
Vernon & Joyce Hawkes
Betty and Family.
We were saddened to learn of Dr. Ross’ passing. He will certainly be missed.
He was a great doctor and a fine and gentleman..
It was heart warming to learn all the great things he did for patients and the community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all.
Brenda Dort
I have such fond memories of Dr. Ross as he was my hero as a child ,because of the surgery he did for me age 11 and 13, l was able to use my arm and have full movement of my neck .l was scalded as a baby but he was the Dr. who (made me well ) .sincere condolences and may God bless you richly.
Larry M
Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to all who are grieving the loss of James at this time. Please find comfort in what it says at John 5:28 & 29, that for now, those we’ve lost are “sleeping” peacefully, and will be back soon, at a time when death will be a thing of the past as Revelation 21:4 promises, and our loved ones will be healthy and happy again. Till that time, it’s hoped that these few sincere words help you through the days ahead. Take care.
Christine Ford
Andrew, Janice, Daniel and David, so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing, He was a very kind man who always had time to stop and chat whenever and wherever you saw him. He loved to ask us about our next travel plans and always liked to hear about our latest adventures. We will miss seeing him around at community events. He was a remarquable man who accomplished a lot in his lifetime. He will be sadly missed.
Royce, Christine and Jason Ford
Harlow Hollis
I first met Jim Ross…………always Dr Ross to me, in 1973 when I was accepted into the Plastic Surgery program at Dalhousie. I had just finished 4 years as a family doctor and wished to shift my medical efforts into plastic surgery. From the beginning Dr Ross was approachable, shared numerous stories throughout the residency program and was always encouraging of all the residents in the program. We spent many a long day and night taking care of people and Dr Ross seemed up for it, often in spite of already working long stressful hours in surgery.
A lot of time has passed since I last saw Dr Ross yet I remember him well. My condolences to his loved ones.
Harlow Hollis
Sterling Belliveau
To the family of Dr. James Ross, please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. You’ve lost someone who was a special part of your family. May you find comfort in each other and in all the compassion that comes to you at this time.
With deepest sympathy,
Sterling Belliveau, MLA
Merv Shaw
I am sorry to hear about the passing of Jim. He was very generous in supplying the maple wood for the 100 cane that I made for the Humanities award , two are given out by the Medical School each year.He was a kind and generous man.
Winston Parkhill
I do regret being unable to attend the celebration of Jims life in Caledonia on Monday. He was my mentor and guide for many years in the field of Plastic Surgery. My acceptance into the Toronto Plastic Surgery Programme was guided by Dr. Ross. He supported me throughout this learning period and my return to Dalhousie in 1972. He contributed his talents to many and should always be remembered as the forerunner of Plastic Surgery in the Maritimes. Mary and I have many fond memories and send our deepest condolences.
Winston
Richard Canning
Betty and family
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jim, a devoted husband and father. A man respected by everyone. He will be greatly missed in the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time.
Muriel Richard and Joan canning
Henny Feddema
Dear Sue & family.
Sorry to hear about Dr Ross passing away,My condolence.
Sue I just met your parents for the first time a couple of months ago, but I will always remember the pleasant visit we had, it was a joy meeting them.
May our Lord comfort & strengthen you, give my love to your mom
Sincerely Henny Feddema.
Evelina Smith
I was a patient of Dr. Ross back in 1957; born with a cleft lip and palette. I had a number of surgeries, the last one at the age of 15. I recognized Dr, Ross in the photo right away even though it has been many years since I last saw him.
He was a wonderful man and a truly gifted doctor. He made a huge difference in my life and I am very grateful for everything he did.
What a lovely obituary and video. There was so much love and respect in the words and photos.
On behalf of myself and my family (sister Angela, mother Evelyn and father Cecil) I offer my deepest sympathies to the family. He will be truly missed.
Patricia Gazley Phelan
Many years ago Dr. Ross removed a recurring cyst on my thumb which gave me a lot of pain. It was fortunate for me that my father, Dr. Lorne Gazley, told me to go to him for help. At that time Dad lived in Winnipeg as he was Regional Surgeon for Western Canada with the Canadian Air Force. He sent me to his classmate, Jim, because he knew that he could help me. Strangely, my Halifax family doctor did not send me to Dr. Ross and told me nothing could be done. It was lucky for me that Dad and Jim knew each other in Toronto where my father grew up and went to med school after the war. It is always nice for a doctor to be appreciated by patients but only the best are respected by their peers. My Dad died on Thanksgiving in 2014 at the age of 94. He was a man who loved being a doctor.
Sincerely, Patricia
Joe Whitty
Jim Ross was one in a million. He performed many surgeries on me. He was amazing and will be missed by all who knew him. I consider knowing him as a real honor.
Dr john sullivan
I have just learned of his passing.We go way back.i was an intern on plastic surgery under his guidance?He was a doctors doctor.always available to his patients.he cared deeply about them?.An old school physician .He was a mentor to me and many others.Indeed a life well lived.condolences to his family.
Nancy-Jean Bell
Dear Betty , Andrew ,Sue and family
We have only just learned of Jim passing. This is a very late message of acknowledgment..
There was never a time in my life that dad (Eric) spoke of Jim without a twinkle in his eyes and we all looked forward to our many summer visits with your family. After my dad passed at 63 , the one person who shared a a similar spirit was his friend Jim….what great times they must have shared.
I love that we reconnected in New Zealand and had many years of summer visits when the Ross’s would arrive. What a wonderful man