Carol Layton (former neighbour)

Entered July 30, 2020 from Etobicoke

Dear Theresa, Alexander and Megan, I was saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Ross. Until 10 months ago I lived a short distance away from you on Humbercrest Lane. I enjoyed my many chats and greetings with Ross over the 26 years I lived on the lane and before that down the street. He was a great neighbour and a kind and lovely man. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Olenka Wasley (Teacher at Humbercrest School (retired))

Entered July 30, 2020 from Toronto

I am very saddened to hear about Mr Best’s passing. He was the most wonderful and dedicated parent - that is why Alexander and Megan were such amazing
students at Humbercrest School.
Heartfelt condolences to Teresa, Alexander and Megan.
Thinking of you.
Olenka Wasley

Donald Eckler (Ross was my principal when I taught at Clinton)

Entered July 30, 2020 from Toronto

I can't remember how many years Ross was principal at Clinton but I taught the Behavioural Special Ed. class for all the years he was there. I have only great memories of Ross. Specifically he was fantastic with the students. A few times I really believe I watched him perform magic in the way he was able to pacify a situation. I think it was because he truly only saw the good in people, in the students, so when he spoke with them, he had such respect for who they really were, fundamentally. He never bought into their bad or negative behaviour. He knew there was so much more to who they were. Ross was great. We coached slo-pitch together for a while and, with his guidance, the team was passed on to me. We won the city championship one year! Thanks Ross.

Nancy DwFrancesco (Friend of the family)

Entered July 30, 2020 from Etobicoke

To the Best family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you Theresa, Alex and Megan. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
My deepest condolences,
Nancy DeFrancesco

Patricia Bevis (Family friend)

Entered July 31, 2020 from Toronto, Ontario

Theresa, Alexander & Megan - my sincere condolences on your loss - I have been privileged to share in your family life for many years and my heart is aching for you as we say goodbye to Ross - the consummate husband and father and friend - loves last gift is remembrance and he will live on in our memories forever. Stay strong - he is now your guardian Angel forever protecting you his beloved family.

"Hail to thee, blithe Spirit
,Bird thou never wert,
That from the heaven,or near it ,
Pourest thy full heart,In profuse strains of unpremeditated art".
A perpetuation of the art of love and kindness displayed. Some thirty plus years ago I met Ross on High Park Ave., at the home of a mutual friend. Ever since that first meeting our friendship grew exponentially, allowing me to attain one of the dozen true friend that an accomplished person expects to make during a lifetime. My foremost golfing buddy and debating opponent (for and against) while attempting to solve the problems of the world.We were each other's advising generalist. There are many things about Ross that were eye catching but none more valuable and sincere than his love ,attention and his pride in his wife , Theresa and their children, Alexander and Megan. A loving husband and a doting father.
My memories of Ross, my true friend, that gentle giant with all those valuable human characteristics will linger, perpetually.
"Only a sweet and virtuous soul,
Like seasoned timber, never gives,
But though the whole world turn to coal
Then chiefly lives".