Ronald McKinley Stevens (1950–2026) passed away peacefully at the age of 75 at Huntsville Hospice.
Ron never stopped trying to make sense of his place in the world, even when it hurt to ask the question. Forever skeptical of convention, he was always fully himself.
He dwelt in that special place between terror and wonder; that place where poetry is born, and belly laughter is frequent.
There was a fury in him, and also a cosmic tranquillity — often at the same time. In that way, he resembled his preferred home, the woods and lakes of Ontario.
As a high school teacher, he was both brilliant and rebellious, preferring to develop curiosity over curriculum. Many souls have been marked by his questions and lessons.
More than anything in life, Ron loved being a dad. He gave his sons the freedom to explore the world without having to bear the weight of burdensome expectations. He also taught them how to paddle a canoe and play the wind with a sail. They will feel his absence until they themselves have shuffled off.
And though he loved erratically (as we often do in love), he loved truly, from the very centre of his being, where chi rumbles and churns.
It was a deep and happy life, though not always a pleasant one. But that’s what happens when you choose to brave uncharted seas.
Ron was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Ruth Stevens. He is survived by his brother, Bob Stevens (Lynn), and by his sons, Christopher Jordan-Stevens (Sarah Downes) and Rory Jordan-Stevens (Sarah Spring).
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses, PSWs, and doctors at Huntsville Hospice, Huntsville Hospital, and Bracebridge Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Huntsville Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Society of Muskoka. In keeping with his wishes, there will not be a funeral service.
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Ron I always appreciated your honesty and integrity. Your sons have ha an inspiring mentor.
I had the energetic pleasure of teaching with Ron. I say “energetic” because his mind was always percolating and you were never quite sure what would pop up next. However, you could be sure it would be interesting, maybe fun, maybe confusing, but always interesting. Ron embodied the importance of authenticity, curiosity and creativity. So many of us – colleagues and students- respected and admired him for that.