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Obituary of Rhona Doreen Beanlands-Rowdon
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Rhona Doreen Rowdon-Beanlands on May 10, 2025 at the age of 92.
Predeceased by her husband Donald Beanlands, Rhona is survived by her children, Rob (Geneviève Moineau), Heather (Daniel Cattran), Bruce (Holly Ananny) and Ian; her grandchildren, Angela, Nolan, Sarah, Joshua, Rachelle, and Hannah; and her six great-grandchildren.
The eldest child of Buzzicott Gillespie Rowdon and Bertha Doreen Rowdon, Rhona was born in St. John, New Brunswick in 1932. The family grew to include two sisters, Winsome (deceased) and Janeen. A proud Canadian, Rhona lived in many parts of the country including Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Calgary, Alberta, eventually settling in Ontario with her own family.
A special talent of Rhona’s was singing. As a young woman, her beautiful, rich voice could be heard on the radio in Calgary. Later, Rhona travelled and sang with the RCAF band, including appearing at the Canadian National Exhibition Bandshell. It was while singing with the RCAF in Halifax that Rhona reconnected with her high-school sweetheart, Don.
Rhona and Don married in 1957 and moved with their growing family to Toronto in 1960; eventually making Ottawa home in 1975. Over the years, Rhona enjoyed camping and road trips with the family, as well as international travel with Don. An avid reader, aquafit enthusiast and skilled card player, Rhona was still winning at rummy into her 90’s.
Rhona was the heart of her home and her family’s biggest cheer leader. She instilled in her children the importance of family, caring for others, hard work and striving to be their best selves. She encouraged each of her children to pursue their passions, including academics, sports, theatre and a love of singing. Rhona also stressed the importance of helping others. She earned her diploma in social work and was actively engaged in her community, including volunteering with several organizations, such as May Court and the Ottawa Newcomers club. She also enjoyed visiting schools to share her enthusiasm for art with children.
Rhona was well known for her kindness and concern for others. She will be deeply missed by the many people who’s lives she touched.
The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to Dr. David MacMillan for his ongoing, compassionate care. Special thanks also, to the staff at Venvi Valley Stream, Freiheit Care and the health care teams at TOH, QWCH and Elizabeth Bruyere for their care and support during Rhona’s later years.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 6:30 p.m-8:30 p.m. and Saturday June 21, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Pinecrest Remembrance Services, 2500 Baseline Rd., Ottawa. A Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel at Pinecrest Remembrance Services on Saturday June 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. followed by a reception. The family will hold a separate private ceremony.
Rhona generously supported many charitable organizations. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those wishing to honour Rhona, make a donation to a charity of their choice that helps them remember Rhona best.
1932 2025
Death notice for the town of: Ottawa, Province: Ontario
death notice Rhona
Doreen
Beanlands-Rowdon 1932 2025
obituaries notice Rhona
Doreen
Beanlands-Rowdon 1932 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Rhona
Doreen
Beanlands-Rowdon 1932 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
