Derlene Alma Ferguson (née Ross) passed away peacefully on Monday, April 20, 2026 in her 91st year. Beloved wife of the late Norman Ferguson. Loved Mom to Perry (Cindy-Lee), Dwayne (Connie), Jill Dee, and Paddy Jo (Steve). Cherished “Nana D” to Chloe, Dayna, Nathan, Lindsey, Tayler, Hayley, Carlin, and Abbey. Cheerful Great Nana to a growing group of great-grandchildren. Dear daughter of the late Ken and Alma Ross (née Leith). “Best Big Sister” to John, Penny, and the late Barry Ross. Treasured sister-in-law to Marion, Bonnie, Jessie, Joyce, Barb (John), and the late Jack, Ella, Marshall (aka Mike), Gladys, Jean, Joan, Nancy & their partners.é
Derlene enjoyed a happy childhood at the family farm in Holstein, ON. Throughout her life, she embraced each new chapter with a full heart—family and friends, work and business, and plenty of fun along the way. Derlene married her local sweetheart, Norm, and together they built, as Derlene said recently, “a wonderful life” characterized by friends, family and fun.
Early on, they discovered summers in Port Elgin, leading to decades of easy, carefree time there. They established a successful business, Voyageur Transportation, that leaves a lasting business legacy as well. In their retirement, they moved to Port Elgin and wintered at Sugar Creek in Florida, surrounded by many friends.
In recent years, after Norm’s passing, Derlene made her home at Elgin Lodge, where she found new friendships and a welcomed sense of community.
Derlene was lively, charming and carried a positive outlook on life that she instilled in her children and inspired in those around her.
Derlene’s children wish to express their heartfelt appreciation for the care and support provided by Elgin Lodge, and to thank the many friends there and in Port Elgin—especially Wayne & Ev, Doug & Ruth, and Maggie—for their kindness and friendship.
A private interment will be held in Holstein Cemetery where Derlene will be laid to rest with her beloved husband. A come-and-go celebration of Derlene’s life will be held at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 1:30-4:00 p.m., with memories being shared at 2:30 p.m.
Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Derlene are asked to consider a charity of their choice.
Donations and online condolences may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com.
