Elwyn Rice
February 17, 2025
RICE, Elwyn Milford - Of Mount Forest, passed away peacefully at Louise Marshall Hospital on Monday, February 17, 2025, in his 94th year. Loving father of Merlin Rice (Kym) of Mount Forest, Karen Rice (Douglas Ludwig) of Toronto, and Jay Rice (Darlene) of Mount Forest. Beloved grandfather of Shannon Rice (Sarah), Nathan Rice (Emily Hodges); Victoria Ludwig (Tom Gaylor), Jonathan Ludwig, Jillian Ludwig; Darryl Rice (Allison), Tyler Rice (Taylor). Great-grandfather of Annabel, Emma, James and Oliver; Everleigh and Lennox; and Ellie. Elwyn is survived by sisters-in-law, Minnie McNeish and Nora Gray, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Merle Rice (1990) and Milford (1935), and his two sisters, Vivian Benson (2006) (late Lewis) and Glenna Carroll (2022) (late Davis).
Elwyn was born June 20, 1931. He started Rice’s Farm Supply in the early 50’s, servicing local farms for 35+ years. Following that, he began Al’s Tree Service “planting many trees for beauty” around the countryside, for another 30+ years, before officially entering retirement, at the age of 90. He always enjoyed a good game of Euchre, a friendly chat over coffee, and never lost his sense of humour and memory for details.
Thanks to Dr. Reaume, Dr. Weinstein and Dr. Goytisolo, and special thanks to Tamara, Manvir and all the staff at Birmingham Lodge and England Funeral Home.
Elwyn’s family will receive friends at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest on Sunday, February 23rd from 1:00 – 3:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Private interment in Mount Forest Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations to the Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Condolences
To Karen, Merlin and Jay and families- my condolences on the loss of your father. He was a very kind man to one of the "neighborhood kids" and has left me with indelible memories. Lema (Smith) Chapple
— Lema Chapple, March 11, 2025
Dear Merlin, Karen, Jay, and the extended Rice family,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Elwyn Milford Rice. It was truly a privilege to have worked alongside Elwyn at Birmingham Retirement Home. My husband also had a great privilege meeting Elwyn when working with Merlin. His jokes and laughter always brightened up the rooms and left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Elwyn’s sense of humor and remarkable memory for details were qualities that brought joy to many and will be fondly remembered. He had a unique way of making every conversation enjoyable and meaningful. I feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced his warmth and positivity firsthand.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. May the cherished memories of Elwyn provide you with comfort and strength. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
With deepest sympathy,
Crystal and Shawn Lazenby
Jay and Darlene and family, thinking of you treasure all of your memories.
— Karen Collings, February 26, 2025My sincerest condolences to the Rice Family. Uncle Al was always such a kind and wise person. I have been praying and will continue to pray for you all. We all must face this someday.
— TERRY SMITH, February 22, 2025Jay & Darlene, Darryl & Allison, Tyler &Taylor and families - Sincere condolences and hugs to each of you at this sad time. Your Dad/Grandpa has left you all many special memories to cherish. Love and Prayers, Cindy & Bill Fines xox
— Cindy & Bill Fines, February 22, 2025Thinking of you all, Sending our love xoxo
— Kristen and Jesse Ullman, February 21, 2025Merlin, Karen, Jay and families …..our sincere condolences to you at this difficult time. We are thinking of you and hoping you will find peace and comfort in your memories. ❤️
Tracey and Marj Andrews & family.
Deepest sympathy to Elwyn’s family. May you find comfort in knowing he is at peace. He will be missed dearly. Rest in peace, Elwyn.
The residents and staff of Birmingham Retirement Community
Merlin, Karen, Jay and families. We are very sorry for your loss. Treasured memories include playing cards, boating at Pike Lake, snowmobiling, and chilli lunches on those cold days.
— Doris and Keith Aitken, February 20, 2025We r so sorry to hear about Elywn. Ted has many fond memories. We r all thinking of u.
— Ted & Shirley Droog, February 19, 2025Jay and Darlene and family we are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences and thoughts at this very difficult time.
— Wendy & Carl Abbott, February 19, 2025Our sincere condolences to the families of Elwyn Rice on his passing. He lived a full life and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Dale & Joan Hershey
My sincere sympathies to the family. We met Elwin about 35 years ago when we traded our bush hog for a number of his blue spruce trees. Along with the tree delivery we had very detailed instructions on how to plant them and their ongoing care.( trees are all thriving). He made quite an impression as I recognized his name immediately
A life well lived.
Merlin/Karen/Jay and families ....My deepest condolences. Elwyn's smile, sense of humor and gentle soul will always be remembered and missed.
— Aunt Nora, February 19, 2025My condolences Jay and Darlene.
— Ashlee Watson, February 19, 2025Dear Nathan & Emily - Thinking of you and your family; our deepest sympathy.
— Kim & Dean Bulloch, February 19, 2025Sincere condolences for you loss. Thinking of you all.
— Ruth Truax Rick Young, February 19, 2025My condolences to the Rice family on your loss.
— Hugh Perrin, February 18, 2025I am so very sorry for your loss Jay, Dar and family. I hope that your memories will comfort you during this time.
Sending hugs to you all, Vikki & Jamie
Sincere sympathy to the family. Rev. Russell & Marilyn Rogers
— Russell and Marilyn, February 18, 2025Our sincerest condolences for your loss, Jay and Dar. Sending love to your whole family today and always.
— Kim & Adam MacLean, February 18, 2025