Ronald Tidsbury

We are incredibly sad to announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Ron Tidsbury, on Monday, September 28, 2020.  Ron was able to spend his last days at home with his family close by, listening to old stories, overseeing his sons and grandson Cody on the farm.

Ron was predeceased by his son Grant. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Elaine, sons Keith (Bobbi-Lynn) and Doug (Elaine), daughters Lori (Dave) and Lisa (Jim), grandchildren Brooke (Chris), Tara (Nik), Brandon (Jamie), Mallory, Morgan (Jeff), Alex, Cody (Tracy), Megan (Curtis), Kelsie (Mike), Gillis, Amy (Marc), Dustin (Brittany) and Carter, along with 9 great grandchildren.  He will also be missed by his sister Lois McLean, brother Craig Tidsbury and sister-in-law Eleanor Muir.  Ron was also predeceased by his brothers-in-law Glen Muir and Don McLean and his parents.

Ron, the eldest son of Dorothy and Gillis Tidsbury, was born in High Bluff in 1927, where he spent his life bringing up his family and farming. After Ron graduated from the University of Manitoba with a degree in agriculture, he began farming with his dad on the Tidsbury homestead in 1955. Ron started growing potatoes in 1978 and celebrated being McCain’s grower of the year in 2008. Ron and Elaine incorporated AYR Farms in the 1980’s, honouring the Tidsbury history emigrating from Ayr Scotland, making them the fourth generation of his family to farm. Ron and Elaine were honoured to receive the farmer of the year in 1991.

Ron has been an active community volunteer with many accomplishments. His many years being past president of the Portage Industrial Exhibition Association culminated in receiving Honourary Life Membership with the Manitoba Association of Agricultural Societies. He was also president of the Portage Chamber of Commerce, a fourth generation director of the Portage Mutual, as well as a director for the Portage Hospital Board. He acted as elder for the High Bluff Church, as well as serving on many committees in his High Bluff community.

Ron looked forward to his winter vacations, especially the plane ride. He was lucky enough to spend 20 or more winters in different destinations, Barbados being his favourite. Saturday night was always spent in Winnipeg trying out the newest restaurant. When he retired, Ron could be seen driving around in his red truck checking out the crops and neighbours. When he was not driving around, he would be pouring and sharing a cocktail with his cousin Gordie, if not Gordie, it was anyone who walked through the door. “When does the party start?” He was a perfect host.

Ron will be forever loved and missed by his family and close friends. We will all miss his big hearty laugh, which was easily recognised at any party, his witty humour and wanting to be his partner for trivia games.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private family service will be held at McKenzie Cemetery in High Bluff, MB.

If friends so desire, donations in memory of Ron may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5, or to the High Bluff Cemetery Association, Box 44, High Bluff, MB, ROH OKO.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com