Ross McLachlan was born in Summerland in 1921, the sixth of seven children of Ida and Alf McLachlan. After graduating from Summerland High School and attending UBC, he joined the RCAF, served as a navigator, and spent two years in Prisoner of War camps during WWII. Upon returning to Summerland, Ross married Nina Mott from Red Deer, Alberta, and soon after became the local postmaster and began to raise a family. During the next several years, Ross spent time as a member of the School Board and President of the Summerland Legion, Branch #22. When Ross changed careers to become a teacher, the family moved to Penticton, and for the next twenty years taught high school English. He also served a term as president of the Penticton District Teacher’s Association. Upon retirement, Ross and Nina returned to Summerland.
Ross passed away from cancer on June 10, 2011. Memory lingers of a wonderful human being, one whose presence has enriched the lives of his wife, Nina, children, Anne, Maureen, Neil, and their families, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. This man moved among us as a gentle spirit with dignity, with an abiding respect for his fellow man, and with deep attention to the truth of all matters.
At a later date the family would like to invite friends to attend a memorial, location and date to be announced. In lieu of flowers donations to the Cancer Society or the Red Cross would be gratefully appreciated.