It is with heavy hearts that the family of Ross L. Bethune of Hampton announce his passing at home Thursday evening, February 21, 2019 with his loving wife Margaret by his side. Born in Moose Creek ON, in 1938, he was the son of the late Duncan and Ella Mary (Runions) Bethune. Ross is survived in addition to his wife Margaret, by his 2 sons; Brent Bethune (Karen) of Hampton and Shawn Bethune (Denise Hamel) of Darlings Island, a brother; Rev. Dr. Arnold Bethune (Marjorie) of Guelph ON, a sister: Eleanor Armstrong of Ingleside ON and 2 grandchildren Erin and Kristy Bethune. Ross was predeceased by a sister Hilda Fickes and her husband Ellis and a brother-in- law Carl Armstrong. Ross grew up on a farm in rural Ontario where he was absolutely spoiled by his sisters, Eleanor and Hilda. He graduated from Cornwall Collegiate and in late 1959 he moved to New Brunswick as a student Presbyterian minister. He served three churches in Hampton, Barnesville and Sussex. In 1960 he met the love of his life, Margaret, after a baseball game. They married in 1963 and settled in Hampton. In February of 1961 he decided to become an Insurance broker and, with just one client, he and Margaret started R.L. Bethune & Associates Insurance. This was the beginning of their successful family business. While growing the company Ross took on extra jobs: he was a truant officer, he drove a feed truck, ran off flyers for the local grocer, sold real estate, did appraisals and in his spare time he became an accountant serving over 70 clients. His sons, Brent and Shawn, both joined the business and as a family they served many generations in Hampton and surrounding areas for over 50 years. Apart from his professional life, Ross dedicated many hours to the local school board, Masonic Lodge, the PC party, the Hampton Community club, army cadets, and the Luxor Shriners. He was part of a group who were instrumental in the development of the Hampton Community Club swimming pool. Most recently he served on the board of the Dr. V.A. Snow Center. Ross was an active outdoor enthusiast. He was a member of the Rothesay Tennis Club from 1960 to 2016 and played competitively throughout the Maritimes. He held great pride in taking his young family skiing to places like Mt. Douglas, Poley Mountain, and several areas in Maine. One of the greatest lessons he taught his sons was to "pick yourself up after you fall", a lesson that has served them well both on and off the ski hill. He also enjoyed swimming at the CYO and the Saint John Aquatic Center. A remarkable achievement was starting jujitsu at the tender age of 70, proudly earning 6 belts. Over the years, Marg and Ross had many pets and especially loved their Golden Retrievers who were often found greeting clients in the office. Ross also loved his "toys", from boats to tractors to sport cars. You could often find him puttering in their backyard or motoring up the Kennebecasis River. Ross was well known for his gift of gab where short conversations turned into hours. More than anything else Ross was a gentle, patient and loving husband, father and grandfather. He was very proud of his sons and granddaughters, and considered them his greatest legacy. Ross will be missed. Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Home (506-832-5541), 1063 Main Street, Hampton, NB, at his request there will not be any visitation or service. A private family graveside service will be held later in the springtime at the Hampton Rural Cemetery. Donations in memory of Ross can be made to NB Heart and Stroke Foundation or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and memorial donations may be made through ReidsFH.com