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ROY ALLAN (RUFFUS) KENNEDY
Born: Sep 23, 1945
Date of Passing: Jan 09, 2025
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryROY ALLAN (RUFFUS) KENNEDY
My journey has come to a peaceful end at home, with Marika by my side on January 9, 2025, with the compassionate assistance of MAID. I bid farewell to my friends, family, and loved ones. A heartfelt thank you to Marika (Mary) Barchuk, my partner of 36 years, who, for the past four years, has been my devoted caregiver and nurse. She courageously took charge of my home care, from morning routines to bedtime. Her unwavering love and dedication were unparalleled. Marika is truly an angel in human form.
Ruffus was born on September 23, 1945, in Fort Frances, ON, a place he fondly called “God’s country,” with its stunning lakes, trees, and the friendships and warmth of a small-town community.
Ruffus lived a rich and fulfilling life with Marika, travelling, working on home projects, and enjoying their backyard “resort” during the summer. He had a knack for figuring things out and loved to dance with rhythm, and converse with people of all ages and backgrounds. He was never at a loss for words and could discuss anything from sports to politics to history. His knowledge and memory were extraordinary.
In keeping with Ruffus’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no service will be held. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made in memory of Ruffus to the ALS Society of Manitoba, 2A-1717 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H2.
A special thank you to Dr. Rebekah Rittberg at HSC CancerCare, the HSC Gamma Knife Department, Dr. Quy Doan, and all the exceptional medical staff who supported Ruffus during this challenging time. Thank you to family, friends, and neighbours for your support and help. Ruffus, you fought cancer with all your might.
Please celebrate his life with your favourite beer, reminiscing about all the good times you shared with him. Ruffus, you will be deeply missed.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 18, 2025
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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Dearest Mary & Family: On February 7 (Friday), I was sitting in my home office, and my husband John came home from work. As usual, we discussed our day at work and other routine things. Out of the blue, I said to John, “Honey, I cannot stop thinking abut my dear friends Mary and Ruffus”, as they had been so special to me during my own sorrows and difficult times in Winnipeg. Mary, I Googled your name, and "Lo and Behold", I found myself reading the following: “On, January 9, 2025 — I bid farewell to my friends, family, and loved ones. A heartfelt thank you to Marika (Mary) Barchuk, my partner of 36 years, who, for the past four years, has been my devoted caregiver and nurse. She courageously took charge of my home care, from morning routines to bedtime. Her unwavering love and dedication were unparalleled. Marika is truly an angel in human form”. I was shocked to learn of the passing of Ruffus, as I remember him as being such a wonderful and kind person. And Mary, the words of Ruffus describe you “to a tee”, because both you and Ruffus stood by me through “thick and thin” during Robert’s illness with cancer until the inevitable. Mary you truly are “Nurse Nightingale”, and your hands are blessed as you care for your loved ones and friends when they are in need. I recall how you would often invite me over for a swim and Ruffus would make sure the pool temperature was just perfect for us girls and he would prepare our favourite Lime Margarita drinks. Oh, what fond memories I have of Ruffus, a very kind, thoughtful and gentle soul. RIP Ruffus, and you are truly missed. My dear sister Mary, I’ll be visiting you very soon. Both you and Ruffus are in my thoughts and prayers. With God’s Peace and Blessings: Bea, John & William. Oakville, Ontario. - Posted by: Ashley B. Silvester (Friends) on: Feb 10, 2025
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Marika, our total devoted love to you and your beloved departed Ruffus. It is such a brave thing you both opted to do, it was a difficult, but the right decision. You have our unwavering support, now and forever. We too, will miss him. You guys were so good for each other. How those years flew by haven't they? Between Covid and the distance we live apart from each other, our regret is not spending more time with you two. He will be missed. Our love, forever Clarence & Monica - Posted by: Clarence and Monica Drebit (Friends) on: Jan 28, 2025
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To my friend Mary, you and Ruffus were a team for many years. You both enjoyed life to its fullest in your travels or just enjoying your home. I am glad that Ruffus went out on his terms and you are at peace with it. You have many memories to enjoy. You took such good care of him for many years and now you deserve a break. He will always be with you. - Posted by: Dale Hall (Friend) on: Jan 26, 2025
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Mary, I am so sorry to hear of Ruffus’ passing. He was a great guy who had a great sense of humour. He will be missed - Posted by: Cindy Semenchuk (Cousin) on: Jan 18, 2025