In Celebration of

Ian Edward Cairns

June 21, 1934 -  June 20, 2025


Passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, surrounded by the loving presence of his children. Born on June 21, 1934 in Barking, England, Ian will be remembered for his cheeky sense of humor, his piano-playing, and the love he had for family and friends.

Ian came to Canada in 1957 with the Royal Air Force under the NATO Pilots Training Program, earning his wings in 1958—a milestone he carried with great pride throughout his life. He spoke often of his Air Force days – regaling many with his adventures both in the sky and on the ground with his fellow NATO pilot trainees.

Having fallen in love with Canada, Ian emigrated officially in 1959 and became a fiercely proud Canadian citizen in 1965. He spent his entire career with Price Waterhouse (PWC), beginning in Winnipeg in 1959, working in both Montreal and Victoria, and retiring as Managing Partner of the Mississauga office in 1999. Ian will be remembered by his colleagues and clients as a gifted leader, generous mentor, and trusted advisor. Beyond his professional life, Ian dedicated countless hours and energy to helping others and giving back to the community, both in Mississauga and during his time in Victoria, serving on numerous non-profit boards and fundraising committees. His kindness, humility, and belief in providing a helping hand to those in need left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. A talented pianist with a great love for jazz and big band music, Ian shared his talent generously, bringing joy to countless people right up until the very end as he became known as the “Piano Guy” at his retirement residence. Music was not just a passion for him—it was a language through which he connected with others.

Pre-deceased by his beloved wife Margaret, Ian was the devoted father of Geoff (Sandy), Lindsey (Carlos) and Jennifer (Stephan), grandfather to Lauren (Chris), Katherine, Amara, Ted (Nathan), Stephanie, Carly (Kaelin), Isabela and Sophia, and great-grandfather to Bridget. No doubt his greatest gift was his steadfast love and commitment to family. All will continue to honor his legacy of service, music, and delight in laughing together.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 25th.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity in Ian’s name.

Ian will be deeply missed and fondly remembered—for the music he made, the lives he uplifted, and the example of integrity and generosity he set for us all.


Guestbook 

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Charlene & Dick Guest (Friends)

Entered July 3, 2025 from Burlington/Kahshe Lake

We will fondly remember Ian for his engaging personality, dry wit & humour and the hours of socially stimulating fun whether golfing, dining, cocktailing or piano playing - especially when tapping into his creative side such as his piano performance of the now infamous duet -the “Golf Buddy Blues!” Our deepest condolences to all of his family…

susan Gaudreau (Niece)

Entered July 4, 2025 from Montreal West

Condolences to the family. Ian was a wonderful man and will be dearly missed.

Linda Shick 

Entered July 4, 2025 from NORTH YORK

Ian will be greatly missed. A gentleman with whom I enjoyed many conversations with and with whom I shared many laughs even very recently. He had a magnificent smile that lit up the room when he walked in. A very intelligent thoughtful person who was generous and kind. My team and I are very saddened to hear of his passing and we will all miss his wonderful and kind words. I hope all the wonderful memories that were created by all those that knew him and specially his family be celebrated and help with his loss. My sincere sympathies to Jennifer, Lindsay and Geoff and all his grandchildren.

Judy and Larry Gaudreau (Sister and brother in law)

Entered July 5, 2025 from Victoria

Our family are very saddened to hear of Ian's unexpected passing. We have so many wonderful memories over the years of both Marg and Ian. Our deepest sympathies to the family.

Photos 

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