Reuben Stanley Robert Maracle, a beloved father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at the age of 50 on Sunday, January 25, 2026, leaving behind a trail of fond memories and a void that will be deeply felt by his loved ones. His passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Reuben's children, Alexandra, Layne, Jakob, and Barrett, will forever miss their father. His siblings, Doreen, Victor (Millie), Wanita (Martin), and Annette (Darryl), are grieving the loss of a brother who was always there for them. The loss extends to his grandparents, Walter and Dora, and Reuben and Isabella, as well as his parents, Stanley and Muriel (nee Styres), and siblings Gordon, Steven, and Audrey, who preceded him in death.
Reuben's extended family, including aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, also mourn his passing. He was especially close to nephews Jeremy, Justin, and Darrell, and cousins Jean and Chris. His friends, scattered across North America, were countless, but the one he held closest was Sarah, Barrett's mother, whose friendship and co-parenting relationship were admired and respected by many.
Reuben's love for life was evident in his passion for music, movies, and sports. He played his music loud, preferred movies in theaters, and wore his Star Wars t-shirts proudly. He was a die-hard fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and pretended to hate the Buffalo Bills. His sense of humor and wit were second to none, and his storytelling was unforgettable, leaving an impression wherever he went.
As a chef by trade, Reuben's work took him from Fort Erie to Six Nations, northern Ontario, and California. His fondest memories came from his days at the Palmwood in Fort Erie, but he enjoyed cooking for his family the most. He will be remembered for his delicious turkey dinners, Three Sisters soup, spaghetti sauce, carbonara, and stuffed chicken, all preferably served with a can of Coca Cola. His favorite place to be was sitting at a rink watching his son Barrett play hockey.
Reuben's love for the sport extended to coaching last year for the U15 Knights in Sault Ste. Marie, where he cherished being able to coach his son and a great group of kids to the season's championship game. His family would like to acknowledge the sincere care he received from the Renal Team at Sault Area Hospital, where he had dialysis since 2023. He also loved the staff at the Tim Horton's and Cafe on the 1st floor, who were always kind and gracious to him on treatment days.
A celebration of life event is being planned by the family to take place in Fort Erie at the beginning of March. Details will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations (payable by cheque or online) to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or your local minor hockey fundraising efforts. Arrangement entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East; 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.arthurfuneralhome.com (http://www.arthurfuneralhome.com/).
Reuben's passing is a stark reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment and the fragility of life. His legacy will live on through the memories of those who knew and loved him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to cross his path.
