Ruth Millar’s 100th Birthday Celebration
January 5th, 2019
For her 100th birthday, my grandmother Ruth Millar and her five children—Rosemary (my mother), Mike, Terry, Sharon, and John—threw a grand celebration at the community centre in Greely called Our Lady of the Visitation. It was a heartfelt gathering where our family came together to reminisce about the rich history we shared over the years. My grandma was always the heart of our family events, whether it was Christmas, summer holidays at the cottage or campground, or taking the grandkids shopping. Unlike many families who would visit their grandparents for a day or maybe stay overnight, we spent 3-4 days at a time at grandma’s house, surrounded by cousins, aunts, uncles, and endless good times.
Centenarians are often asked for health advice or tips on how to reach such a venerable age. My grandma’s secret was straightforward yet controversial—she never touched drugs or alcohol throughout her life. Perhaps this abstinence contributed to her reaching such a remarkable milestone.
From Kidd to Millar
Ruth Millar grew up in Orillia with her brother and sisters on a farm. Her father owned a bakery during the Great Depression, and the family experienced true poverty during those challenging times. Despite these hardships, she met my grandfather, and they fell in love. Their union was not without controversy, as she married him despite the disapproval of her Protestant family—he was a Catholic from England. On her wedding day, she wore a blue dress she had sewn herself, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
My grandfather’s career in the military took them all over the world. They lived in various places, including huts in Ethiopia, homes in Rome, and made numerous visits to London to see my grandfather’s siblings. Eventually, they settled in the south end of Ottawa, where they established a campground. Camp Hither Hills has been a family-run venture for over 60 years and remains a central hub for family gatherings and countless cherished memories. We affectionately refer to it as “the farm” or “the camp,” and it holds a special place in all our hearts.
Cherished Memories
The memories I hold most dear are those of shopping trips, baking pies and lemon squares, family dinners, listening to old records, vacations in Florida and at the cottage, making Gum Drop Cake, spending time in the caboose, barking at the waves, eating Tums whenever my stomach hurt, sitting at the round table, and her telling me that certain things were nonsense. Most importantly, I remember her as a constant and unwavering supporter in my life.
Gratitude
Thank you, grandma, for everything you’ve done for me. Your love, wisdom, and strength have shaped who I am today. I wish you many more wonderful years surrounded by all your family.
Celebration Details
Venue: Our Lady of the Visitation Community Centre
Creative Team:
- Video: Grey Loft Studio (Luc)
- Photography: Grey Loft Studio (Bethany) and Julian Hunt (@julianhunt)
This celebration was a testament to Ruth Millar’s remarkable life and the love she has inspired in all of us.
