Ronald (Ron) Victor Rackley of Kincardine, died peacefully, March 7, 2023, at Brucelea Haven, Walkerton, in his 91st year. Survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Yvonne; his daughter, Lynne (Stan) Johns of Kincardine; and his son, Dean (Tamis) Rackley of Kincardine. Dearly remembered by his grandchildren, Perry (Jacqueline) Johns of Kincardine, Kyla (Scott) Mahn of Toronto, and Kelsey Rackley of London. Ron was happy and proud to be a great-grandad to Tyler Johns of Kincardine, Carol (Kyle) Stares of Bradford, Kalvin Stares of Sarnia, and Sienna Mahn of Toronto. Born in London, England, to Frank Rackley and Mary Ryan-Rackley, Ron was the youngest of seven children. He had a rough start in life, being evacuated to Wales at the age of six, during the Second World War, due to the relentless bombing of London. While he was in Wales, his mother died; Ron was only seven years old. Despite a difficult childhood, Ron never lost his sense of humour, his infectious smile, and his love of life and adventure. He met Yvonne 73 years ago at a local youth club; they both knew it was love at first sight. From that point on, they were always together. Ron worked at Ontario Hydro for many years but took early retirement to follow his dream. He and Yvonne took off on their sailboat and let the wind guide their way to distant shores. When his seafaring days were over, he volunteered at the Day Away Program in Kincardine for many years. He loved to entertain, sing, write music, and play his guitar. A devoted husband and family man, Ron was so proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and he wasn't shy to tell everyone how great they were. He never let life get him down no matter what it threw at him. He always had a smile, a good sense of humour, and something funny to talk about; we will miss his laughter. Special thanks to the Brucelea Haven nursing staff and Dr. Gill for taking such great care of Ron. A memorial service to honour Ron's life, will be held at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home, Kincardine, Monday, March 13, 2023, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Kenneth Craig officiating. Reception to follow at the funeral home. If so desired, memorial donations in Ron’s memory to the Hospital for Sick Children Foundation or the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, would be appreciated by his family. Portrait and memorial on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com. |