Ruth E. Ferguson

Ruth Elizabeth Ferguson

1931 – 2026

Ruth Elizabeth Ferguson (nee Mann) of Guelph passed away in her 95th year, with her family by her side, on April 22, 2026.

Born near Wardsville, Ontario, she was the daughter of the late Firman and Rebecca Mann, younger sister of the late Lyle Mann (deceased 2025), and sister-in-law of the late Norma Mann (deceased 2023).

After her early education at a two-room schoolhouse down the road from the farm where she grew up, she obtained her nursing education in Chatham. As a Registered Nurse, she worked briefly doing neonatal care in London and Windsor before moving to Ottawa and raising four children – Keith (Cathy), Elizabeth, Kevin (Kathy) and Kent (Donna).

Following a move to Guelph in the early 1970s, she returned to her nursing career when her children were older, and ultimately worked for many years as a psychiatric nurse at Homewood.

After retirement, which she continued to describe as “great” even 30 years later, she enjoyed seeing her five grandchildren Katie, Rebecca, Emma (Teddy), Sarah (Jake) and Scott. She travelled, enjoyed live theatre and an occasional trip to the casino, read a library’s worth of books, and produced a variety of crafts. Few people did not have a quilted teddy bear, a microwave bowl holder, or more recently a toque, that she made from a seemingly inexhaustible supply of yarn, fabric and thread. She continued to see her nursing school colleagues at their annual reunions that she helped organize for almost 70 years.

She was a frequent visitor to the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre in Guelph, where she shared her love of sewing and quilting with many other friends. She was generous with her time, volunteering for numerous organizations over the years. She remained fiercely independent, living in her own home and insisting on taking public transit to her appointments and outings well into her 90s.

Thanks to Dr. Lesley Mok, Dr. Rachel Kyle, and the caregivers who helped her in her final days. Thanks also to Dr. David Hood, who looked after her so well for many years.

In memory of Ruth, if desired, donations may be made to the Guelph Wellington Seniors Association or the Hospital for Sick Children.

Cremation has taken place. At her request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

A tree will be planted in memory of Ruth E. Ferguson in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.