It is with great sadness that Citadel + Compagnie shares the news of the passing of Donald Ross on January 5, 2026.
Unparalleled supporter, patron and friend, Donald’s philanthropy was nothing short of transformational. A major supporter of the arts, Donald believed in the powerful place dance occupies within communities, and alongside wife Gretchen and daughter Felicia, supported Citadel + Compagnie for nearly two decades.
In 2016, Citadel + Compagnie honoured the foundational gifts made by the Ross family, officially renaming the company’s home The Citadel: Ross Centre for Dance. The dedication not only acknowledged the Ross family’s major contribution to the building’s renovation, but its impact on the community as a space to support the vision of hundreds of dance artists across the country for many years to come.
“Donald’s generosity was unpredictable, eccentric and often surprising—many times given in the most unusual of ways. Donald gave from his heart. He never asked for recognition, sometimes even giving anonymously, because for Donald the action was his reward. He was moved by the simplest of gestures. Gestures that showed grit, honesty and rigour. There will never be another Donald Ross. He gifted us The Citadel, which will forever stand as a true testament to his spirit.”
– Laurence Lemieux
Citadel + Compagnie is eternally grateful for Donald’s generosity and shares in mourning his loss with all those who directly and indirectly benefitted from his inspirational giving.
For more on Donald’s life and legacy please visit the link below.