February 19, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
Rona Ritchie Cronk (Findlay) passed away at Cowichan District Hospital on February 19, 2023, after experiencing a Cèilidh (gathering) of her children, grandchildren and friends. Each was able to say 'goodbye' in their own way.
Rona had a full life. A nomadic life. She boasted that she had moved 47 times (48 now) from her birthplace in Aberdeen, Scotland, to many locations around the world.
She was pre-deceased by her husband of 42 years, Jim Findlay, her daughter Dawn Barta, and her second husband Elvin Cronk, of Courtenay, BC.
Rona was known for her incredible ability to play the piano by ear. She entertained literally hundreds of people in churches, dance halls, seniors centres, and events of various kinds. She had an incredible singing voice - the singing of 'Unforgettable' with Phil Newns and his group was, well, unforgettable.
During the COVID pandemic, Rona wanted to help people feel less lonely and thus produced a series of short video clips of her playing various hymns and songs, which were distributed to many seniors through the Cowichan Valley Seniors Centre.
She adored dancing and singing especially with the Choristers in Courtenay and with the senior choir in Duncan.
Deep gratitude is felt for staff of The Meadows and Sunridge Place, the nursing staff of CDH, and Drs Barr & Watt.
A memorial service will be held in her honour, March 4, 2023 at 2 pm, St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Duncan.
Service Details
2:00 PM