CONROY DOWSON

(September 13, 1928 - July 5, 2025) Urban planner, pilot, motorcycle buff, ballroom dancer, intrepid world traveller, and father - Conroy Dowson, 96, lived a life full of energy, enthusiasm and charm that carried him through countless adventures. Born and raised in the East End of Toronto, he earned a B.A. Hon. in Geography (1955) and a Diploma in Town and Regional Planning (1959) from the University of Toronto. He served as Planning Director for Niagara Falls (1959-1964) and the County of York (1965-1971) before joining R.V. Anderson and Associates (1971-1974), where he was Director of Planning. He founded Conroy Dowson Planning Consultants in 1974, remaining active until 2018. His projects included the official plans of several Ontario towns, and he contributed to significant developments across southern Ontario, including the Pickering and Markville (Markham) Town Centres. He lectured at Ryerson University and Seneca College. He was a past President of both the Provincial Association of Canadian Institute of Planners and the Ontario Association of Land Economists. Conroy had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, cars, and airplanes. He owned more than 40 motorcycles during his lifetime, and was still riding at age 89. A licensed motor vehicle mechanic, he also earned a commercial pilot licence. He treasured his Cessna 172, Oscar-Tango-Charlie, which he used for recreation and town planning aerial photography. He was also a dedicated ballroom dancer and professional dance teacher. He was a longtime member of both the Canadian Dance Teachers Association and the International Dance Teachers of Canada. His many travels took him to faraway destinations throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. He adored his children, Christine, Zachary (Rie) and Richard (Samantha); and was delighted with the arrival in recent years of grandchildren, Ryan (7), Noah (3) and Emily (1). He was married to Frances Peggy Taplin (deceased) and Susan Claire Taylor. He is also survived by his sister, the Rev. Dr. Roberta Fuller, as well as nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, "June" Frances Campbell and Vernon Dowson; his brother, Eric Dowson; and sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Dowson. Conroy was the most generous and compassionate of men. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.