In Celebration of

Luc Vanneste

October 2, 1952 -  March 14, 2026


It is with profound sadness that the family of Luc Vanneste announce his passing on March 14, 2026, at the age of 73. Luc passed away peacefully at North York General Hospital following a long and courageous struggle with Alzheimer’s disease, a battle he faced with determination and grace.

Luc was the devoted husband of Pam, his lifelong love and constant companion. Their marriage was marked by deep affection, humour, and unwavering partnership. Luc doted on Pam throughout their many years together, and those who knew them well understood that she was truly the love of his life.

He was a proud and loving father to Marc (Maureen) and Stephanie, both of Toronto. Luc was also a deeply devoted grandfather to his five grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and pride. He also leaves behind one brother and six sisters (one brother who was previously deceased), as well as several in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Born in Belgium, Luc’s family moved to Canada in March 1959, settling in the outskirts of Brantford, Ontario. As a young boy and through his university years, he worked on the family farm, where he learned early the values of discipline, perseverance, focus and hard work—principles that would fundamentally guide him throughout his life.

He went on to build a distinguished career in finance and accounting. Following the completion of his undergraduate degree in accounting from the University of Toronto, Luc began his professional journey at KPMG LLP, where he rose to become a Partner, earning a reputation for integrity, sound judgment, and thoughtful leadership. In search of the next chapter in his career, Luc completed his MBA at the Ivey Business School in 1999, graduating with distinction, earning the Ivey Scholar Award. He joined Scotiabank in 1999 as Chief Auditor and served as Chief Financial Officer from 2005 to 2012. He was appointed a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants (FCPA) in 2006. Luc was an active member of several charitable and non-profit organizations, including the Heart & Stroke Foundation for 20 years where he acted as Chairman of the Board from 1994-1996, as well as Vice Chairman of Toronto Rehab Foundation, and the Writers’ Trust of Canada. Over the course of his career, Luc was admired by colleagues and respected across the business community, mentoring many team members who benefited from his guidance, wisdom, and generosity.

Outside of his professional life, Luc was an avid golfer and was happiest on the course at St. George’s Golf Club, a place he fondly considered his second home, or in Palm Springs at Toscana Golf & Country Club where he enjoyed his winters. There he enjoyed not only the game he loved, but also the camaraderie and enduring friendships formed over many years.

Luc will be remembered for his strength, humility, generosity, passion for helping others and deep devotion to family. He was admired and loved by a legion of friends, colleagues, and former team members whose lives he touched through his mentorship and friendship.

His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many people fortunate enough to know him. Luc touched the lives of countless people and, in his own way, always left them better for it.

A visitation will be held at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel (2357 Bloor St. W) on Wednesday, March 25 from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m.

A private funeral will be held on March 26, followed by a Celebration of Life open to all friends and family.

Guestbook 

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Régis munger (Travail sur la ferme comme (PRIMER )avec Luc, Plusieurs années. La chimie sont encore ploguée, ils ouvrent les valves.)

Entered March 16, 2026 from Québec, Canada

De beaux moments vécus avec Luc dans le champ de tabac. Et aussi avec toute la famille,
Beau temps mauvais temps.

Maria Theofilaktidis (Friend and colleague)

Entered March 16, 2026 from Etobicoke

To Pam and the whole Vanneste family, my deepest condolences on the loss of dear Luc. May he Rest in Peace now.
Luc was a very special colleague who cared deeply for others and always tried to uplift those around him. He was the utmost professional and always acted with the highest integrity. His love and devotion to his family was always visible. I am forever grateful that he was part of my career journey and feel privileged to have worked with him. He has left a lasting impact and legacy and will not be forgotten.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Sandra Taube Godard (We worked together at KPMG)

Entered March 16, 2026 from Toronto

I am sorry to hear of your loss.

Rocco Rossi (I was the CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation for 5 of the years he was on the Board)

Entered March 16, 2026 from Toronto

A brilliant and generous man who brought great insight and values to everything he did. I was blessed to have him on the Board of the Heart and Stroke Foundation when I was CEO. He helped to make every decision better. May his memory be a blessing.

Richard Rooney (Friend and fellow New College grad)

Entered March 17, 2026 from Toronto

Luc was a true gentleman, unfailingly gracious and kind. My sympathies to Pam and his other loved ones for their loss.

Photos 

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