DR. BLOSSOM T. WIGDOR

(C.M.) (June 13, 1924 – October 25, 2025) The family of Dr. Blossom Wigdor announces with sadness her passing on October 25, 2025, at the age of 101. Blossom is survived by her beloved son, Mitchell; daughter-in-law, Clare Gaudet; granddaughters, Lara and Sateendra, and Emilie and Duncan; niece, Debbie, and Steve; and cousin, Natalie, and Zack; and their families. She was predeceased by her husband, Leon; partner, Clay Switzer; parents, Sol and Olga; sister, Nora; and nieces, Barbra and Lori. Born in Montreal in 1924 to Russian-Jewish immigrant parents, Blossom grew up in a household that valued education, service, and community; principles that guided her through a remarkable century of life. A psychologist and gerontologist, her intellect and trailblazing spirit left an indelible mark on Canada's academic and social landscape. After earning her M.A. from the University of Toronto, and her PhD in clinical psychology from McGill University in 1952, Blossom began a career that would help define the study of aging in Canada. For 27 years, she taught at McGill University while maintaining her clinical practice and working at Queen Mary Veterans' Hospital, including serving as chief psychologist. In 1979, Blossom was appointed the founding director of the University of Toronto's program in gerontology, later the Centre for Studies of Aging (and now the Institute for Life Course and Aging), establishing one of the first formal programs of its kind in the country. She became Professor Emerita in 1992. Blossom also served as Chair of the National Advisory Council on Aging (1992–1996), where her leadership helped shape national policy and research. She was deeply committed to improving the quality of life for older adults, advocating for evidence-based approaches and compassionate care long before these concepts became mainstream. She served on numerous committees and boards, including the Mount Pleasant Group, the Canadian Stage Company, and the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Her numerous honours include being named a Member of the Order of Canada in recognition of her "leadership in establishing gerontology as an academic discipline in Canada and her outstanding contributions to the study of aging." She received honorary degrees from the University of Victoria, University of Guelph, and St. Thomas University. She was awarded the Canadian Centennial Medal and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. Throughout her lengthy career, Blossom broke barriers for women. She mentored generations of students and colleagues, many of whom credit her with inspiring their own paths in psychology, health policy, and social work. Blossom's professional achievements were matched with her love for her family. She took immense pride and joy being with Mitchell, Clare, Lara, and Emilie and celebrating their achievements. Blossom shared a rich life with her late husband, Leon Wigdor, whose unwavering support, and shared spirit of adventure took them around the world together. In her later years, Blossom reconnected with Clay Switzer, a fellow academic, and her devoted companion for over two decades. Their partnership was filled with warmth and joy; from lively conversations to quiet crossword puzzles shared each week. Clay's steadfast love and care brought her great happiness, and his passing in July 2024 was deeply felt. In their time together, Blossom also made fond memories with Clay's children, John, Karen, and Robert, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In her over one-hundred years, Blossom witnessed, and helped shape, an era of extraordinary social and scientific change. Her life was a testament to curiosity and courage, as she opened doors for others, and stood firm in her convictions. Blossom's family wishes to thank the staff at Donway Place and the wonderful caregivers and team at C-Care Health Services, especially Lorraine, Jennifer, Lourdes, and Luisa for their exceptional professionalism, warmth, and compassion, which brought her comfort and dignity in her later years. A funeral service will be held at Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel, 2401 Steeles Ave. West, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 12:00 noon, with a Celebration of Life to follow at a later date. If desired, donations would be appreciated in memory of Blossom to: The Leon and Blossom Wigdor Award for Studies in Aging (OSOTF) c/o Institute for Life Course and Aging, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto. Blossom's life was distinguished by intelligence, resilience, and an unwavering sense of purpose, an enduring legacy that will continue to influence and inspire.