Jeff passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife and four children, at Toronto General Hospital on September 7, 2024 at the age of 67. Beloved husband of Deb Bacon; cherished father of Taylor (Kristen), Sarah (Griffin), Stuart (Hannah) and Julia; adored “Papa” of Wesley, Lily, Carter, James and Nolan; brother of David (Janet). Predeceased by his parents, Evelyn and Jim Bacon (Heather).

Jeff grew up in Etobicoke where he met his high school sweetheart, Deb (née Caulton). After studying Chemical Engineering at Queen’s University, Jeff and Deb moved out to Calgary where Jeff worked in the oil and gas industry. They returned to Ontario in 1981, were married, and Jeff completed his MBA at Western University, leading to a successful 20-year career in investment banking at BMO Nesbitt Burns in Toronto. Jeff then experienced a profound calling which began an incredible journey to become a United Church minister at Emmanuel College, University of Toronto. He served at St. Bartholomew’s United Church in Brampton as “Rev. Jeff” for 10 years until 2022, when he was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. Jeff was devoted to ministry and to his church community where he generously shared his love and faith. Jeff spent many rewarding years volunteering with Light Patrol and Youth Unlimited supporting homeless youth in Toronto.

His children experienced unconditional love, lasting support and wisdom, and strength beyond measure. Jeff was an accomplished builder and leaves behind a legacy of beautiful pine cabins, cedar saunas and canoes, through which he shared his love for the outdoors with his family. Jeff enjoyed uncomfortably hot saunas, overlooking Healey Lake or his cabin in the woods, followed by a cold Export and a lively sing-along with his family and friends. More than anything, Jeff valued time spent with Deb, and the growing families of his children at their home and cherished cottage where they celebrated life’s many blessings. Jeff was honoured to have had the opportunity to baptize each of his five grandchildren.

Throughout their 43 years of marriage, Deb cherished Jeff with selfless love, and this was never more apparent than during his recent declining health when she never left his side. Jeff tackled his diagnosis with strength, faith and dignity. We are grateful for all the love and support from family, friends, community and the incredible healthcare providers at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Western Hospital and Toronto General Hospital.

A celebration of Jeff’s life is planned for this Thursday, September 12 at 1:00 PM at Kingsway Lambton United Church in Etobicoke, with a reception to follow at the Old Mill. In lieu of flowers, please remember Jeff by contributing to Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. If you are able, Jeff’s wish would be that you donate blood in his memory to thank the many donors whose blood supported him in his last months of life.