Ron passed away peacefully at home in Toronto surrounded by family on September 30, 2024, at the age of 97. Born and raised in Toronto, Ron attended University of Toronto Schools, University College, University of Toronto, and the Faculty of Law at Dalhousie University.

Although he practised law, both in private practice and for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, his true love was away from the office. He cherished his time at his Toronto home, his cottage on Bella Lake and his second home in Gulfport, Florida. A renaissance man, he excelled at whatever he put his hand to. At the cottage he built the boathouse, a garage, a music room addition for his baby grand piano, and even a dollhouse. He instilled in his daughters a love of travel, reading, old movies, Monty Python and music. He was a voracious reader but he also loved being with family and friends. He treasured his succession of cats who were his loyal companions whether out for walks or travelling between his homes. He windsurfed and played tennis until he had a stroke at age 80. Afterwards he exercised regularly till the end of his life, from Tai Chi to chair exercises in the kitchen. He was considerate, intelligent, hard working and had a good sense of humour.

He is survived by his daughters, Maggie Atkinson (Murray Smith), Pam Evans (David), and Julie Rumak (Ray), and his cousin Garth Piper. Ron was preceded in death by his former wife Irene, his beloved friend Lou Ann Scherer, his parents the Rev. William E. and Jessie Atkinson (nee Duff), and his sister Ruth Finch (Lester).

The family is thankful for the wonderful care he received. Dr. Norkus looked after him until he entered palliative care at home. Optimum Care personal support workers, Dawa, Eugena, Tenzin and Miriam, and the coordinator, Grant were excellent. From Paramed, Rada and Margaret’s compassionate care and expertise helped him stay at home for his final years. Carol put the “home” into homecare and often had him on the front porch even the day before he died.

We are grateful for the long life Ron lived and the precious memories he leaves behind.

Ronald has been cremated, and a memorial will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 3pm at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, at 2357 Bloor St. West, Toronto. Family will receive friends from 2-3 pm prior to the memorial, with a reception to follow.

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