Apr 20, 1946 - May 24, 2026

• In Loving Memory of Keith Ferris

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Keith William Ferris in Ottawa on May 24, 2026, at the age of 80.

Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Keith grew up in Lively, Ontario, with his parents Lloyd and Irma Ferris along with his much-cherished siblings Joyce (John, predeceased), Ralph (Irene), Bill (predeceased), Bonnie (Alex), and Jean.

Keith shared his life with his wife Brigitte for almost 56 years. He was a devoted father to David (Laurel) and Michael (Heidi) and a loving and attentive Grandpa to Caitlyn, Maddie, and Elliot. Keith was an enriching and guiding presence in the lives of those who loved him, and his influence will be lasting.

Shawanaga Lake, and the cottage he built there, was Keith’s favourite place to be. He treasured spending time at his second home in the summers where his siblings and extended family also have cottages. In addition to his beloved siblings, he also loved spending time with their kids: Tim (Anna, predeceased), Anne Marie (Steve), Heather, Kerri (Paulo), Dean, Erin (Trevor), Mark (Shelley), Lori (Mat), Kara (Clint), Tyler, Courtney (Dave), and Kelly (Mike), along with all their children.

Keith was a clever, curious man who appreciated a “good piece of kit” and creative solutions. He always approached conversations with a sparkle in his eye and an easy laugh, both of which will be deeply missed. Keith could often be found enjoying his love of stale wine gums while listening to the music of Roger Whittaker and Stompin’ Tom Connors or keeping up on world events on his “little talk radio.”

Keith was very proud of his more than 30 years of service in the Canadian Guards Regiment, Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR), and Airborne Regiment, earning the rank of major. Major Ferris’s service highlights spanned across Cyprus; Edmonton, Alberta; Petawawa, Ontario; Lahr, Germany; North Bay, Ontario; Petawawa, Ontario; Washington, D.C.; Ottawa, Ontario; El Salvador; Mozambique; and the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Keith’s call name was “Friendly Warrior” which described him perfectly. He found lifelong friendships in the military and is survived by Ray, his dear friend, and was preceded in passing by his other close friend, Jerry.

To celebrate Keith’s life, please join us for some camaraderie, food, drinks, and stories at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 618, 1481 Stittsville Main Street, Stittsville, on Saturday, June 13, from 12:00pm – 4:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Ottawa Mission.

Please take a moment to sign the online guestbook and share a memory or two of Keith.