Memorial to Aunt/Grandma Ruth

 
It is difficult for me to set to words the state of my heart.

 
Early way back in 1974, we met Mrs.Ruth McKerracher as members of the United Nations Association Niagara Falls Chapter. Mrs. Ruth Mckerracher has been in our lives at every step since we migrated to Canada.The year 1974 is very important to us. Apart from migrating to Canada from Kenya in that year, we learnt that we were expecting a baby. Wow, our first child was to be born within 9 months of arrival in a new country. That’s when Mrs. Ruth McKerracher became Aunt/Grandma Ruth. She was there at all times, giving support to my wife, Jackie, and also immensely looking forward to the arrival of Nina, our daughter. She became a part of Shah family and we became part of hers.

 
She was there when my son, Sunir, was borne in 1979. She was always around to give support and also join in the joy and excitement for his arrival. She gave all the love and attention as a Grandma would give.

 
Both kids were always pampered. Aunt/Grandma Ruth became our Canadian Grandma. This gave a tremendous comfort to my mother on the other side of the world in Kenya.

 
Over the years she diligently sent Birthday, Easter and Christmas cards whether she was away on a tour somewhere or when we moved away from Niagara Falls. We continued to visit her and make special trips to Niagara Falls to spend time with her. Kids grew up but they always cherished visiting her whether in Niagara Falls or in Ottawa.

 
It is a story of cross-cultural affinity. Where we came from (our Indian background) and her world with Scottish/Canadian background and how instantaneous a bond was weaved. We took to each other like fish to water. Our love and respect for each other was rather quite quick. There was mutuality and never a thought on our minds that we are different and do not belong together She was an epitome of the Canadian Way.

 
Our spirit is emboldened and sparkled and we are forever enchanted by her love and affection.

 
Good Lord has taken her to His fold and I am convinced that her soul will be blessed forever. Aunt Ruth/Grandma, you will always remain in our heart to eternity. We cherish the time with you.

 
Rest in peace, Aunt/Grandma Ruth, we love you, your Shah family.

 
 
Pravin Shah