The world lost one of it's largest Saskatchewan Roughriders fans (both literally and figuratively) when Ross McLaren Carnduff passed away unexpectedly at Chinook Regional Hospital at 75. His children Leanne Haslam (Kassy and Carthew), Grant "Mac" Carnduff and Curtis and Carnduff (Anna, Landon) were Alex by his side.
Ross was born in Carnduff, Sask. Sept. 21, 1949 where he lived the farm life until he and his Rider pride moved to Alberta for work on the rigs in the late 60s. Over time his career evolved into truck driving and equipment operations.
His family was everything to him and he raised his two boys alone and with his daughter joining them in Waterton where he worked from 1984 to 1994 as an equipment operator for Parks Canada and occasionally "bootlegged". His love for family was further demonstrated when he moved back to Carnduff to care for his mother until her passing.
In 2000 Lethbridge became his final move where he ran the night haul from Lethbridge to Calgary for 12 years until his retirement.
Ross enjoyed watching sports and socializing at Bully's and always carried a toothpick in his pocket like many a Saskatchewan farm boy. His many common complaints about his meals were epic and he would often suggest his "hash-browns and bacon were not cooked enough and there was too much lettuce in my salad."
His dry wit (another Saskatchewan trait) was always evident with one of his classic lines being: "I've driven more miles backward than most people have forward."
As a father he was respectful of his children and always told his grandson Carthew to "Listen to your mother."
Ross was pre-deceased by his father Peter McLaren Carnduff and his mother Elizabeth "Betty" (Farr) Carnduff. After his father's death his uncle Art Farr offered him some male guidance until he too died.
He will be missed greatly by many - including aunt Sharon - and friends near and far.
When the time is right his ashes will be released into a strong west wind in Waterton so they might find their way back to Saskatchewan where his journey began.
The family wishes to share their deep gratitude to the staff of Lethbridge's Chinook Regional Hospital who were extremely helpful in Ross final journey.
To honour Ross's request there will be no funeral. Go Riders!!!!
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.
To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca
