My father died last night, at 9:45. After many months of fighting hard, and despite excellent medical care, he finally succumbed to complications arising from pancreatitis. His health took a turn for the worse last week, and he lost consciousness, which he never fully regained. Another downturn prompted my brothers to call me on Wednesday and let me know that I’d better get to Toronto quickly. As a result, I was at least able to be here with my mother and brothers – we were all with him, standing by his hospital bed, when he passed away peacefully.

My father was a very funny, very lovable man. He was very strong, and extremely capable. Starting with almost nothing, he came to Canada from Israel, and he built a successful business and provided for a family that loved him. When that business eventually closed, he built another, that grew to be bigger than the first. He loved and took pride in that work, and he also loved to laugh and enjoy life outside of work. We miss him.

I could say more, and probably should – and probably will, eventually. But right now it’s just too soon for any of that. I’m staying with my mother in Toronto, Emylene is here in Toronto as well, and the funeral will be held at Steeles Memorial Chapel some time tomorrow. We don’t know when yet, because my father died during the Sabbath, and Jewish funeral homes are basically closed during the Sabbath. We’ll finalize the arrangements late tonight. I imagine details will be available from the funeral home web site, or by calling the Steeles Memorial Chapel at (905) 881-6003.

[Update: The funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM. The shiva will be held at 7300 Yonge Street, Suite 603.]