Hamilton, Ross Edwin, 1914-1980

Mr. Ross Edwin Hamilton was born in Kenora, Ontario on Feb. 3, 1914. While studying at the University of Saskatchewan he met Ruth McEown who was also studying to become a teacher. They were married June 29, 1940. After World War II, the family moved to New York City. After receiving his Doctorate in Education at Columbia University, the family moved to Olympia, WA where he held a position of State Director regarding the education of exceptional children. Mr. Hamilton went on to hold positions in other locations including New York State and British Columbia. By 1973 Mr. Hamilton and his family returned to Tacoma, WA where he became an executive director for Orion Industries in Seattle, WA. Mr. Hamilton retired in 1979. He passed away in Tacoma, WA on Nov. 15, 1980. His wife, Ruth, had been very active throughout their lives. She had taught school, was an active member of member of the organization called P. E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) which values education. After Mr. Hamilton passed away, she traveled and enjoyed her family of three children and seven grandchildren. Ruth Hamilton passed away Jun. 25, 2007.

The Vancouver Association for Retarded Children was founded about 1954 by a group of concerned parents of children that were mentally disabled. The parents were fighting for special education for their children in the public school system. In the early 1950's many parents were struggling fo find ways to educate their children, who, because of their "mental retardation" label, were entirely excluded from the public school system. In May 1955 seven local parent association joined together to create the B.C. Association for Retarded Children. The Vancouver Association for Retarded Children was one of the founding member organizations. The Association for Retarded Children of B.C. (ARC B.C.) was officially formed in 1955. The Association for Retarded Children of B.C. later became the B.C. Association for the Mentally Retarded, British Columbians for Mentally Handicapped People and finally the B.C. Association for Community Living.

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