Obituary of Ruth Ann Brock (née MacEachern)

September 8, 1937 ~ March 7, 2019 Ruth Ann was born in the most northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Meat Cove. A feisty, proud Cape Bretoner all her life, she and her siblings came from humble beginnings. Helping others and working hard was instilled at an early age…traits that Ruth demonstrated her entire life. She learned to swim in the cold Atlantic waters of Cape Breton Island, which evolved into a lifetime joy of being around water. Swimming, pool parties, and ultimately still swimming into her 80s. Sun and water brought her much happiness. Ruth left the homestead at age 19, and headed to the big city of Toronto. There, she met a dashing young baseball player named Clark Brock. They fell in love, married, and welcomed three children: Owen, Leslie and Karen. They lived in London, Toronto, and then back to Oakridge Acres in London. Ruth was a woman of many roles: wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, volunteer, baseball coach, CWL member and past president at Holy Family Parish, and consummate bridge player. She had an ever hopeful spirit, and an open, generous heart. She was the ultimate den mother to many Oakridge children. Her door was always open, and there was always room at the table for another. Ruth was a devoted Catholic, whose belief in God guided her through many hardships and health challenges. She always had an ear to listen and a hug when needed. She was our rock. ♥ Over the years, Ruth developed friends coast to coast. Her greatest achievements were her three children and her four grandchildren. She adored them all, and was all about family. She created many wonderful celebrations and memories that will always be fondly remembered. We were blessed. Ruth was predeceased by her beloved husband, Clark, and many of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her sisters, Pauline and Christine. Cherished mother of Owen (Sue LeBlanc), Leslie (Brian Kehn), and Karen (Darla Arrand-Brock). Treasured grandmother of Rebecca, Emily, Jacob and Zachary. Missed by her sister-in-law, Dana Dunbar, and by her many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to Dr. Louise Moist, Julie Ann Lawrence (NP), the dialysis team, Dr. Lazo-Langner, LHSC staff, Dr. John Gonder SJHC, and St. Joseph’s Family Medical Centre for many years of compassionate care. A visitation will be held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Monday from 6:00 ~ 9:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at HOLY FAMILY PARISH, 777 Valetta Street, London, on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Reception and fellowship to follow. Interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ruth are asked to consider the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, the Boys and Girls Club of London or Holy Family Parish. Ruth was a strong supporter of all. Most of all, Ruth would want us all to share time with family and friends, by reminiscing about a life well-lived and creating new memories enriched with her memory.