Ronald WARDHAUGH Obituary

Ron passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025 in Victoria, B.C. Born in the United Kingdom in
1932, he was the eldest son of a coal miner. After the tragic death of his father in a mining accident in 1944, Ron and his three siblings (Derek, Dorothy, Betty) were raised by their devoted mother, whose strength and sacrifices helped shape the course of his life.
Losing a father at an early age and growing up in a mining community, Ron acquired a strong sense of responsibility and an intense drive for achievement and efficiency. He earned a place in a Grammar School, an English secondary education institution reserved for students with high academic ability. After Grammar School, he fulfilled his obligatory military service with the final rank of Lieutenant in the Royal Northumberland Fusiliers.
In 1957, he immigrated to Canada to pursue an academic career. A graduate of the Universities of Durham, Alberta, and Michigan, he obtained a teaching position at the University of Michigan, where he was Professor of Linguistics from 1966 to 1975, as well as Director of the Center for Research in Language and Language Behavior (1969-1971). In 1975 he joined the University of Toronto as Professor of Linguistics and Chairman of the Department of Linguistics (1975-1986). He was the author of a dozen academic books, one of which, "An Introduction to Sociolinguistics," has become the classic text in this field. It was also translated and published in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.
Ron had two children with Hazel: Bruce (Jennifer) and Carolyn (who predeceased Ron). He was very proud of Bruce's academic achievements; he is a Law Professor at the University of Durham. Ron and Chau, his companion for 45 years, were bonded by their love for books; travel, particularly in France and Japan; classical music and opera; and for the furry felines. Together
they cared for and mourned the loss of a dozen cats. Trish, one of their mutual friends and also a cat lover, had spent long hours over many months, sitting with Chau by Ron's side. They tried to cheer him up with music, art books, and reminiscences of happier times. In his twilight years, Ron often told friends and family: "I had a good life."
Ron is deeply missed by Chau and her extended family, his son, grandchildren (Margaret, Victoria, Christopher), step-grandson, former wife, and friends.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no service.