Ruth and Max weren’t looking to be remembered; they were just trying to do the right thing. Whether it was sharing food with a neighbour in need, volunteering quietly behind the scenes, or donating to causes they believed in, they lived their values every day. Now, after their passing, their daughters Julie and Patti are sharing their story in hopes that it inspires others to do the same: to care, to give, and to keep community at the heart of everything.
Ruth learned about generosity from her own mother, who ran a small-town store where people could get food on credit if they weren’t able to pay. “She may or may not have ever gotten paid, but she never questioned it.” Her father was equally generous with what he had to offer the community, so Ruth was born into a family of giving.
Her parents’ example stayed with Ruth throughout her career as a social worker. She didn’t just process paperwork; she found ways to connect people with food programs, clothing drives, and support services that could make a real difference in their lives. Her philosophy was to “meet people where they are, get to know them, understand them, respect them, and then find ways to help them.”
Max worked at Stelco and was active in their church, New Vision United Church (formerly St. Giles United Church), and community. He was very focused on relationships, making sure relationships were built with integrity and solid connections. His approach to life was simple: “Look out, not in. When you raise up the community, you’re all in it together.” He stood by his belief that it’s difficult for anyone to thrive without a functioning, supportive community, so he did everything he could to build that for his family, friends, neighbours, and anyone he met.
That mindset led Ruth and Max to get involved with Wesley through their church. They supported Wesley by delivering newsletters, helping with incoming donations, and giving what they could, even as they aged. “It was just part of their being,” Patti said. “They decided that they would support Wesley, period.”
Family photos show the warmth they brought to everything; Max painting with his grandkids in Florida, Ruth laughing at a family gathering with a teacup in one hand and a beverage in the other. “Life is about balance,” their daughters say.
Today at Wesley, giving comes in many forms. Some people donate money; others share posts online or bring in clothing and supplies. You don’t need to have a lot. Showing up and spreading the word helps too.
Ruth and Max have passed on, but their impact continues as their family keeps their legacy going. Julie and Patti recently made a donation in their memory, a full-circle moment for a family that always believed in supporting others. “Mom and Dad would want this to inspire people,” Julie said. “Wesley matters to the community, and it’s up to all of us to keep it going.”
Ruth and Max showed that generosity isn’t measured in dollar signs or grand gestures, and giving doesn’t have to be big or loud to matter. Sometimes, it’s just doing the right thing, every day, in whatever way you can. Your legacy is written in cups of tea, friendly handshakes and conversations, and the decision to invest in the well-being of those around you.
