Born in Worthing, England on June 25, 1925 to Arthur and Rita Ayling, he passed away peacefully at the Village of Humber Heights on September 30, 2023, with his family by his side. Predeceased in 2014 by his beloved wife of 59 years, Maureen (nee Clifford). Loving father of Clifford (Rosemary Canaletti) and Anne (Robert Campos). Cherished grandfather of Gerry (Daniela Barros), Francis (and partner Bailey King), Erin (and fiancée Nathalie Dagenais), Alyssa, and Keara. He was recently blessed to have been introduced to his first great-grandchild, Isabel.

A World War II Veteran who served in the Royal Air Force enlisting in 1943 first as a Navigator and then trained in Codes and Cyphers. His first assignment took him across Europe and through India, landing eventually in New Delhi. He was discharged in 1948 upon returning home to England.

In 1958, he and Maureen emigrated to Canada. Settling in Toronto, he was able to reach his full potential starting with the LCBO, rising to the position of Chief Wine Consultant. Later, he went on to become the Canadian Vice President at McGuiness Distilleries of the wines and spirits importing group, which allowed him to travel the world from the vineyards of Napa Valley to the hills of Tuscany and as far as the heart of Argentina's wine country: Mendoza. Although his career in the liquor and spirits business took him far afield his dedication was always at home—with his family.