Sid was born in Montreal in 1927 but grew up in the town of Perth, Ontario. He learned his love for music from his mother and love for the outdoors from his father. There, he was involved in church, sports and other community activities. After his father returned from the war, Sid started working at the local shoe factory. As a young adult, he moved to Toronto to continue his studies in violin and singing. He had an interesting time as a soloist in several churches and musical groups.
After marrying Jean and working at the Dack Shoe Company for a short time, he moved to Ottawa in the late 1950’s where they raised their three children, and were members of the Woodroffe United Church for over 50 years. While working in the retail shoe business, Sid attended painting classes given by the late Ralph Burton and with the encouragement of Colleen Fogarty and later Thomas Grossman, he started a second career as a landscape artist. Painting, music and family remained Sid’s passions for the rest of his life.
After health problems started to occur, Sid and Jean moved back to Toronto to be closer to their children. They have been able to live at Tapestry Village Gate West, in Islington Village, for almost seven years where they enjoyed connecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Sid was friendly to everyone and had a warm soul that made him a big hit with his grandchildren. He had a deep appreciation for Canada and made sure to enjoy all it had to offer throughout his life.
Sid passed away peacefully, on March 9, 2018, surrounded by his family at the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Centre, in Toronto. He left behind his beloved wife Jean of 62 years, who provided wonderful care to him as illness set in. He was the loving father of John (Margaret), Brent (Johanne Pelletier) and Sheila (Jason Fischl); and cherished grandfather to David and Jacob Mooney, Nathan, Patrick and Brianna Mooney, and Louis and Hanna Fischl. Sid was survived by his sister-in-law Betty McGregor of Balderson, Ontario and brother-in-law Donald McGregor (Margaret) of Ottawa. He was predeceased by his brother William, sister-in-law Violet and brother-in-law Howard.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Bedaj and Dr. Blondal of St Joseph’s Healthcare Centre, and Dr.’s Mitchell and Murray of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
A Celebration of Sid’s Life will take place at the Turner & Porter Butler Chapel, 4933 Dundas St. W., Etobicoke (in between Kipling and Islington Aves.) on Saturday, June 9, 2018, from 1:00pm to 3:00 pm. With family reflections beginning at 1:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation: Palliative Care Centre, The Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation, or the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made through this website.