Ancaster Factor

As some one who remembers Jackson Square and the Market in it's day before the Eatons Centre and the closure of the office buildings like Stelco Tower, our downtown has become beyond sad :(

Another concerning stat for the health of Hamilton's downtown -- the number of people visiting the Hamilton Farmers' Market is decreasing.

For the first time since measurements began (COVID excluded) the Market is reporting fewer visitors year-over-year.

Most concerningly, traffic in June was down 14.1 per cent comparatively, with Saturdays down 10 per cent.

High profile crime events, public drug use, and homelessness on York Boulevard are among the reasons cited. The Market shares its building with the Hamilton Central Library which continues to report significant decreases in families attending the library.

Story now on TPR.

Today I want to share the memorial page for a truly remarkable woman, Norma Jean Bush.

The world feels a little quieter without her in it, but I know her legacy lives on in the countless lives she influenced with her warmth, generosity, and gentle spirit.

She will be dearly missed and never forgotten.

If you knew Norma Jean, I encourage you to take a moment to visit her memorial page, share a memory, or leave a message for her family. I know it would mean a great deal.

Rest peacefully, Norma Jean. Thank you for everything. ❤️

Condolences to Leslie Bush Johnston and family

Memorial page: https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/dbancaster/obituaries/norma-jean-bush/163221.html

In Loving Memory of Norma Jean Bush
May 11, 1937 – June 06, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Norma Jean Bush on July 06, 2026.

Norma Jean is now reunited with her beloved husband, Ron, with whom she shared 67 wonderful years of marriage. She is also reunited with her parents, Archie and Anne, her cherished son Joel, her dear sister-in-law Margaret and brother-in-law Geoff, and the many other treasured family members and friends who went before her.

Norma Jean leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her brother Jimmie (Margaret), her sister Sandy (Geoff), her beloved daughter Leslie (Mike), and her daughter-in-law Kathleen. She will also be deeply missed by her many nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

The greatest joy in Norma Jean’s life was her family, especially her treasured grandchildren Katrina, Sydney, Sarah, Parker, and Carter, who were truly the lights of her life. Her love and pride in them knew no bounds. She also leaves behind her faithful Bernedoodle companions, Charley and Berkley, who brought her comfort, companionship, and countless happy moments over the past six years.

While Norma Jean was not an avid athlete herself, she loved watching sports, particularly curling and tennis. Family and friends could always count on hearing her enthusiastic cheers from the television whenever her favourite players or teams were competing. More than anything, however, Norma Jean treasured time spent with family and friends. She was deeply grateful for the lifelong friendships she nurtured over the years and found her greatest happiness in the company of those she loved.

Services are entrusted to Dodsworth and Brown Funeral Home - Ancaster Chapel. Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home – Ancaster Chapel (90 Garner Road in Ancaster) on Thursday, July 23, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate Norma Jean’s life, share cherished memories, and reflect on the joy, kindness, and love she brought to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hamilton SPCA or to a charity of your choice.

Forever loved, always remembered, and deeply missed.

Funeral Details
Celebration of Life
Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home
Event Times:
23-Jul-2026 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Condolences from family and friends