Ronald Philippe Cinq-Mars was born May 3, 1931 in Winnipeg to Eva (nee Dupas) and Phil Cinq-Mars. As an only child raised in Seven Sisters Falls, MB, Ron developed a joy for nature, a love of sports, and an unquenchable curiosity he shared generously with his family.
Ron graduated from Engineering at the University of Manitoba in 1955. Shortly after, he married the love of his life, Gladys Helgason. They were married more than 55 years, welcomed 4 children, and moved 13 times in their time together. Gracing the streets of Buffalo, Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Beauharnois and Beaconsfield, the family collected life-long friends. Ron and Gladys traveled extensively and enjoyed exploring new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes.
Ron’s most beloved place was the family cottage at Lake Limerick, Ontario. Inspired by his childhood spent swimming in cold creeks and cross-country skiing across Manitoban vistas, Ron recreated his love for nature at the family cottage. He could be found untangling the fishing lines of wee grandchildren, in the captain’s chair of Halla the family pontoon boat or scheming his next project with his sons in his workshop. For 25 years, days of fishing, feasting and family fun were enjoyed in the Ontario sunshine.
Ron spent many joyful days on the golf course and curling rink. He spoke fondly of the time spent and friendships made while enjoying sports, into his final years. Par for the course, one of his palliative caretakers remarked they had never met a 91-year old who had ‘Go to the gym’ on his daily agenda.
His 40-year career combined his Engineering skills with business acumen and leadership. It also brought lifelong friendships with colleagues that sustained him until his final days. Attending the annual retirees lunch club was always a priority.
An avid student of history, Ron dedicated his heart tracing his family’s lineage, instilling a sense of pride in the Cinq-Mars name, and an understanding of their role in the complex mosaic of Canada’s past. Ron’s immense collection of maps, stamps, books, and National Geographic magazines – stacks of them, organized neatly by publication date – were all testament to Ron’s unquenchable curiosity.
A combination of generosity and thriftiness meant he wanted the best for his family without wastefulness. He always expressed gratitude for what surrounded him. The things he valued were cared for meticulously. His train set represents this well. Maintained over decades, what once brought Ron and his grandkids hours of joy remains in mint condition, ready to be played with by generations to come. His creative outlet of building and wood-working left behind treasures for the future.
Ron passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, June 23rd. He is survived by his children; Jim (Kate), Karen, Leonard (Suzanne) and Christine. His grandchildren; Olivia (Matti), Evan (Joanna), Christophe (Kirby), Marc (Caitlin), Nicole, Silken (Liam) and his great grandson, Hugo. Ron was a man of strong constitution, kindness, and playfulness, making bad Dad jokes until his final day. He loved a good party and always looked the part. Ron‘s legacy will be his unwavering love for his family.
Gratitude to Evergreen Hospice, Palliative Care Team of Markham Stouffville Hospital, Home Care, SRT Nursing and an amazing cadre of PSWs.
Donations in lieu of flowers to Evergreen Hospice.
Resting at Chapel Ridge Funeral Home, 8911 Woodbine Avenue, Markham (4 lights north of Hwy 7). Visitation is from 4pm – 8pm Wednesday, June 29 with Story Swapping at 6:30 pm.
Celebration of Life for Family to be followed at a date still to be determined.
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Thursday June 23rd 2022
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Ronald P Cinq-Mars Thursday June 23rd 2022..
Décès pour la Ville:Markham, Province: Ontario