Obituary of Ronald Arthur Morrow

Born and raised in the Glebe, the eldest son of Dr. Arthur Burrows Morrow (1955) and Florence Catherine Shaver (1987), older brother to John (Marlene) and Bill (2020) (Arleen).

Ron met his soulmate Mary “Jean” Cameron (1987) at teachers’ college in Ottawa, married in 1960, and settled in Perth to raise their family: Megan Ann (David Rathwell) and Melanie Beth (Tim Wilson).

A lifelong educator, Ron believed in helping students find their way in life, both inside and outside of the classroom. He pioneered the Co-operative Education Program for Lanark County.  

His most passionate career was as Grandpa to his five grandchildren, of whom he was so very proud: Stacey Hogan (Ryan), Kelly Norwood (Lucas), Scott Rathwell, Mackenzie Wilson and Sydney Wilson. Most recently he became Great-Grandpa to Brooks Norwood. 

The cottage on the Ottawa River, which he helped his dad build as a ten-year-old, was his happy place. Ron later became a talented carpenter himself, building two houses on Glenview Crescent, as well as crafting beautiful furniture in his garage workshop. 

He square-danced weekly with Jean in the early years. Later in life, he continued square dancing, where he met his partner of more than 20 years, Barbara Bateman (2018), with whom he enjoyed a wonderful retirement.  

Ron had many hobbies, a deep devotion to family, and always lent a helping hand—or simply offered company for a sweet treat. He was a generous, bright light who will be sincerely missed by all who had the honour of knowing and loving him. 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Lanark Lodge for their exceptional care and kindness.

Friends are invited to visit with the family at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St. W. Perth, on Monday, December 22, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, a Masonic Ceremony will commence the visitation at 4:00pm. Ron's Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 1:00pm. A reception will take place in the Blair & Son Family Reception Centre, with interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery. In honour of Ron, memorial contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society - Wheels of Hope Lanark County or the Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation - Perth Site would be greatly appreciated.