A last greeting to Rod Ferguson: lawyer and cultural sponsor of our community

A last greeting to Rod Ferguson: lawyer and cultural sponsor of our community

Rod Ferguson, an estimated lawyer and committed member of the community, died. He died on Friday in the Huronia hospice in Penetanguishen and turned 81. Ferguson leaves a significant gap in the Midland community, in which he played a formative role for several decades.

his work was recognized in a highly positive manner by both the rotary community and by various organizations. The Rotary Club Midland described him as the "pillar of our community" and emphasized its 50-year membership in her organization. "Rod has made significant contributions both as a prominent lawyer and for art and culture in our community," said the club in a public message. Its loss is perceived painfully and the expressions of condolences continue to flow.

a life for the community

Rod Ferguson was born in Toronto, but grew up in Fergus, where his parents led an ironwear business. This environment strongly shaped him. His early experiences-including the distribution of the Toronto Star newspapers and his time as Queen Scout-helped him to develop valuable skills that have been useful all his life. "He learned early on the importance of hard work and entrepreneurship," says his obituary.

The award 여러 Awards shows the appreciation for his tireless efforts. In 1982 he was appointed Queen’s Counsel, an honorable recognition for his remarkable achievements in law. In addition, he received the Law Society Bicentennial Award of Merit in 1997 and the Law Society Medal in 2011, which recognized his extraordinary contributions to the legal profession.

Ferguson's influence on the local cultural scene was not overlooked. Neil Aitchison, actor and former radio presenter, remembers the crucial moment when Drayton Entertainment thought about opening up a branch in Penanguishen. "Rod was the first person I called to make contacts in the community," emphasized Aitchison, who described Ferguson's support as a kind of "money on the bench".

The Huronia Community Foundation also joined the numerous tribute statements. She described Ferguson as a long -standing supporter of the organization and emphasized his financial support for the foundation's administrative portfolio. "Our sincere sympathy applies to his family in this difficult time. It will be missed by many in our community," said the foundation on its social media.

In personal memories it becomes clear how much Ferguson was also valued as a neighbor. The resident John Gordon tells of the friendship to Ferguson and his wife Fran, who repeatedly offered to use their basketball networks and play equipment. "Rod had a big heart and was always concerned about the well -being of his neighbors," says Gordon. "Farewell to a True Gentleman."

Ferguson leaves his wife Fran, with whom he was married for 54 years, as well as his children James and Katherine and four grandchildren. The relatives and friends are invited to gather on Thursday in the Nicholls Funeral Home between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the funeral service. The service will take place on Friday at 11 a.m. in the St. Paul’s United Church in Midland, followed by a reception in the Rotary Hall in the Midland Cultural Center.