KARNER, Ross
May 8, 1944 - April 20, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ross Michael Karner. Ross passed away with his family by his side at the Welland Hospital, two weeks before his 80th birthday, after a brief illness.
Loving husband of 54 years to Eileen and beloved father to Pam Cullen (Jim), Greg (Erin) and Tara Markovich (John). Proud grandpa to Emily, James, Matthew, Emma and Jake. Beloved brother to Paul, Alan (Josephine), Ann Libertini, David (Sue) and Rita Campigotto (Jerry). Ross will be missed by his many nieces and nephews as well as his brothers-in-law Bernie Macdonald (Aline), Jim Macdonald (Marci) and Fr. Stuart Mac Donald. He was predeceased by his mother Helen and father, Lansing.
Ross grew up in Fonthill, attending SS#2 Pelham (Hansler's School) and Pelham High School. He began a plumbing apprenticeship in 1968 with Dain City Plumbing and worked with several local plumbing contractors before beginning his own small plumbing and heating business - FTF Plumbing and Heating (First Things First) in 1989.
During his retirement years Ross enjoyed many opportunities to travel, visiting places in Australia, the UK, Europe, and the US, often taking in Petula Clark concerts along the way. He particularly loved winter trips to the "happy island," of Aruba. He cherished every single one of these adventures with his best friend and travel partner, Eileen.
A revered and loved father and grandpa, Ross' true joy was spending time with his children and grandchildren. Whether near or far, Grandpa loved to know about each of them, cherishing any and every moment he spent with them.
Ross was known for his sense of humor- always able to get a laugh for his clever one liners. A man of sincerity and wisdom, he taught his children and grandchildren many valuable lessons, about the importance of integrity and hard work. Most of all, Ross will be remembered for his kindness; a consummate gentleman, he believed in treating everyone with dignity and respect.
"He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again"
The family would like to thank the staff of the Welland Hospital (Niagara Health System) ICU and 3 South for their excellent care of Ross.
Arrangements are entrusted to the H.L Cudney Funeral Home, 241 West Main Street Welland. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, April 23 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Vigil Prayers at 7:45 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at the Parish Community of St. Kevin, 307 Niagara Street, Welland at 11am on Wednesday, April 24. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Hamilton General Hospital Foundation or to St. Kevin's Parish St Vincent De Paul.