Obituary of Ross William Wilton

On November 7, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, Ross William Wilton peacefully took his last breath and is now with His Saviour. He was born to the late Harold and Lila (Gripton) Wilton on November 15, 1938, and grew up in Mt. Brydges, Ontario. He married Marie Dykeman on August 17, 1963, following a call by the Lord to move to New Brunswick.

Ross obtained a BA in Science at McMaster University in 1960, a BEd at the University of New Brunswick in 1972, a Principal’s Certificate at the University of Alberta in 1974, and a MEd from UNB in 1975. He passed his life-long love of learning on to his many students at United Baptist Bible Training School now Crandall University (4 years) and Oromocto High School (34 years teaching Science and 32 years as Vice Principal) as well as to campers at Green Hill Lake Camp, his Bible study groups, as well as his children and grandchildren. He taught many of his grandchildren how to play the violin, which he began studying at 50 years old, took them on nature walks, gave many science and math tutoring sessions, as well as much more. One of his goals was to help his students choose courses to become better citizens. He taught through words and actions while he shared his love of science, nature, and music.

Music was a passion of Ross’. From the booming sounds of the organ to the harmonies produced by the many choirs and groups in which he sang (including the McMaster University Choir, Bible School Choir, the Sanctuary Choir, and his lead role in the Mikado in high school), he appreciated them all. His beautiful bass voice blessed many hearts, and he was a faithful cheerleader to each of his children and grandchildren in their musical adventures.

Ross was a faithful member of Brunswick Street Baptist Church and served in many ways since he and Marie moved to Fredericton in 1964. His involvement included serving as the Chairman as well as several terms as a member of the Board of Deacons, teaching Sunday school, member of the Get Together Club, and most recently as the church historian. Helping to write and edit the latest history book of BSBC for it’s 200^th anniversary, brought him great joy. He was also a charter member of the Fredericton North Gideons Camp and a longtime member of the NB Genealogical Society.

Family time was extremely important to Ross. He took his family on many trips to Mt. Brydges to ensure we remained connected to our Ontario family roots. Several family genealogies were written by Ross to preserve his family history. Starting in the summer of 1980, the family cottage was a favorite place to gather and many, many fond memories were made there with family and friends.

Ross spent many of his last hours singing praise to Jesus, praying, thanking God for a good life and a caring wife and family. His faith sustained him throughout his life and as he faced his final days.

He is survived by his loving wife Marie, children and their families: Beth Fox (Randy), Meghan Fox, Keltie Magnus (Steven)-Everly, Alina, Sophie, Hillary Fox; Leah Steeves (David), Rebecca McKinley (Will)-Lyla, William, Grace, Anna Steeves, Bethany Steeves; Dan Wilton (Eleanor), Jon Wilton (Alyse), Jessica Bicknell (Sam)-Milo, Jana Watson (Jansen)-Artem, brother Lyle, sisters-in-law Zeta Sherwood (Walter), Ruth Waugh, Muriel Kitchen, Deborah Bourque (Eric), and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by family: Allen Wilton (infant brother), Mary Wilton, Glen Waugh, Vernon Kitchen, and Andrew Waugh.

Thank you to all those who provided excellent care in the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital Emergency Room, Palliative Care Unit, and Hospice House. It was much appreciated.

Visitation will be held at McAdam's Funeral Home on Saturday, November 11 from 2 - 4 pm. Celebration of Life will be at Brunswick Street Baptist Church on Sunday, November 12 at 2 pm. Interment will be held at the Maugerville Baptist Cemetery. For those unable to attend the service, a livestream will be available at the following link: A Celebration of Life for Ross William Wilton - YouTube

Donations in memory of Ross may be made to Hospice House, BSBC, Green Hill Lake Camp, Shareword (Gideons) or Crandall University.