Dr. Craig Ruddell Cornell, DVM '59

It is with great sadness that his family shares the news that Craig Cornell passed away on May 2, 2023. Craig was the beloved husband of almost 69 years to Beth. His daughters Kim and Laurie will love and miss him forever. David Chiswell, who he thought of as a son, will miss his friendship and guidance; and his sweet dog Chanel is lost without him. 

Craig was the eldest son of the late Al and Betty Cornell, and a brother to Carl and his late wife Joye, Keith and his wife Karen, and an uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was welcomed by the Long, McDonald and Holtby families who highly respected him. He and Beth enjoyed fun times spent with their 'forever' friends Noreen (Dick)Taylor, John (Marion) Gillham, Marilyn (Dale) Watts, Bertha (Dr. Jack) Thompson, and Mamie (Dr. Bill) McClintock. Our family's friendships with our long-time neighbours meant a great deal to him.

Craig graduated as a veterinarian from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1959 and began large animal practice in Linwood, Ontario. He later moved to Guelph, Ontario and established the Cornell Animal Hospital in 1987. His friend Dr. Mark Gemmill, who he held in high esteem as a veterinarian, later joined the practice as his partner. Through his work for various veterinary professional organizations, he contributed to areas related to disciplinary matters, mentorship, education, and stewardship. 

Craig loved his time kayaking and camping, enjoyed cooking, watercolour classes, and exercising at the pool. He spent many hours on his deck with his beloved dogs cuddled up on his lap. He had a great sense of humour and built a kayak in his basement that he christened “The midlife crisis”. There was much cheering by family and friends as it emerged through a tight basement window and was then launched at Guelph Lake, staying afloat, we might add!

A special thank you to his health care team for their care and compassion: Dr. Andrew Burke, Dr. Oded Friedman, the amazing Guelph Dialysis Centre nurses, Dr. Carl Mackie, Dr. Julie Chaytor, Guelph General Hospital, Grand River Hospital and St. Mary's General Hospital. 

Cremation has taken place and a private interment will occur in Uxbridge, Ontario.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Low & Low Funeral Home, 23 Main Street South, Box 388, Uxbridge, Ontario L9P 1M8 (905-852-3073).

In memory of Craig, a donation to the Uxbridge Hospital Foundation (www.oakvalleyhealth.ca/foundations/), the Farley Foundation (www.farleyfoundation.org) or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.  Online condolences can be made at www.lowandlow.ca