CARMEN APPLEGATH

On Friday, February 13, 2026, Carmen Consuelo Applegath passed away at North York General Hospital. In September 2025, Carmen contracted West Nile encephalitis after a mosquito bite. This rare and devastating illness that changed everything and ultimately took her life. Carmen leaves behind her dog, Peanut, her extended family, and countless friends, as well as all the neighbourhood dogs. Carmen grew up in Toronto and Mexico. Her journey took her from studies in Paris, to a fishing lodge in Haida Gwaii, to the pastry ovens at the Four Seasons, as well as some of the best restaurants in Vancouver. Twenty years ago, she decided to make a fresh start back in Toronto to be closer to her family. A professional chef, a loving dog mom, a friend to so many, Carmen was fiercely independent, driven, and strong in spirit. Food was her love language and with it, she spoke generously to her community, whether it was wine and pâté with a friend or the best chocolate chip cookies with those who touched her. They, in turn, were at her side throughout her last journey and will miss her enormously. Carmen was proud of her Mexican heritage, devoted to her garden, a wonderful friend and most importantly, a beloved sister and aunt. Her little Peanut is with her family. We would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, and staff at North York General's ICU. Their professionalism was exceptional, but most importantly, they truly cared about her getting better and tried everything to move her recovery forward. Donations in her memory can be made to the North York General Hospital Foundation, with a note to direct the funds to the ICU unit, would be most appreciated. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Toronto Botanical Gardens on May 1, 2026, between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.