Ian Thurston

Ralph Ian Stanley Thurston

June 29th, 1941 – August 30th, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ralph Ian Stanley Thurston on August 30th, 2024, at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. Ian was born in St. Catherines, Ontario, on June 29th, 1941, to Ralph Stanley Thurston and Margaret Christina “Bonnie” Thurston.

Ian is survived by his sister, Lynn Lesslie (Bob); partner Karen Foster; former wife, Marion Stevens; their children, Timothy (Kelly) and Holly (John); 5 grandchildren, Steven (Kelsey), Zachary, Samantha, Jessica and William; and great-grandson Charlie.

Ian was a jack of all trades, having worked as an automotive mechanic for the Ontario Provincial Police, a National Sales Manager at Bear Automotive, and finishing his career as an Automotive Shop teacher at Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute in Scarborough, Ontario. He was known as a hard worker within each workplace and his passion for automotive mechanics lives on in his son and grandsons.

After retiring, Ian and Karen moved to Buckham’s Bay in 2006, where Ian kept busy as an active member of the community. He was a regular member at the local legion, volunteered within the community and was a friendly neighbor to all those around. His family shares many fond memories of time spent in the Bay, boating, skiing, swimming and more.

Ian is described by his family as a caring and compassionate member of the family; he was always eager to help and never ready to sit still. No one will be able to eat a raspberry pie or chocolate chip cookie without thinking of him with a smile.

With Love, The Family

Public visitation will be held on Saturday, September 7th, from 2-4 p.m. at Tubman Funeral Homes Garden Chapel, 3440 Richmond Rd, Nepean (between Bayshore & Baseline Rd.). The family sends many thanks to the medical team at the Ottawa Civic Hospital in their diligent and empathetic care for Ian in his final weeks.