McLachlan, Ronald John

Ronald John McLachlan formerly of Hawkesbury, ON passed away peacefully on Monday, January 5th 2026 after a lengthy illness at age 86 years. He was the loving husband of the late Carmen Ménard and stepfather of Nicole McEachern of Stittsville, ON. He is survived by his cousins Heather Larocque (Wesley) of Sutton, QC, Shirley Fourney of Saskatoon, SK, Robert Smith (Mary) of Williamstown, ON and Lorraine Ross (Lorne) of Ottawa, ON with whom he shared a special friendship. He will also be remembered by many members of the Ménard family including Olivette Parent (late Jacques), Gisèle Beaulieu (late Guy), Renée Pinard (late Olivier/Ti-Gars Ménard) as well as several nieces and nephews. Ron was born on June 1st 1939, the only child of the late Hugh Victor Angus “John” McLachlan and the late Jennie Euretta Smith. They lived on a dairy farm on the shore of the Ottawa River near Pointe Fortune, QC. His mother died at age 31 when Ron was only six years old and this sad event affected him for the rest of his life. In 1966 he married Carmen and they made their home in Hawkesbury, ON. He was employed at Canadian International Paper Company in Hawkesbury for 18 years and later at the EB Eddy Company in Hull, QC. Following the heartbreaking death of Carmen in 1997, he devoted his time and resources into rescuing and providing a loving home for stray cats. In May 2022 his failing health forced him to leave his home. He ultimately settled at the Granite Ridge Care Community in Stittsville, ON where he received excellent care and much kindness for the rest of his life. As per his wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements are entrusted to the Berthiaume Family Funeral Home 416 McGill Street, Hawkesbury, ON. A private burial will take place in the summer. Sincere thanks to all those who showed kindness and care to Ron and his cats over the years. Special appreciation to Nicole for the time spent ensuring Ron was supported and cared for with kindness. For those wishing, donations may be made to the Ottawa Humane Society or the charity of your choice.