EDWARD HOOEY Obituary
(June 30, 1944 - April 29, 2025) Passed away peacefully, on April 29, 2025, having spent his final few weeks surrounded by family. Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Ed went on to build both his career and his family there, remaining deeply rooted in the city throughout his life. He enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in tax, culminating in his role as Global Head of Tax at BDO. Respected for his sharp mind and integrity, he was a trusted advisor and mentor to many throughout his professional life. Ed was endlessly curious – a voracious reader with a deep interest in world affairs. He had a daily ritual of combing through multiple news publications, always eager to understand what was happening across the globe and to challenge his thinking. At home, Ed was a passionate and inventive cook. A true foodie, he was constantly hunting for new recipes to test out, often tweaking and perfecting them, and proudly collecting an impressive array of kitchen gadgets – much to the bemusement of his wife. He was never happier than when cooking for his loved ones, and his family and friends were the grateful recipients of many memorable meals. He also had a lifelong love of fishing – whether on the dock at the cottage with his grandkids, flying into remote northern lakes with his son for their annual fishing trip or casting a line alongside his lifelong friend, Allan Reesor, whom he met when they were just six years old, sharing decades of friendship until Allan's passing in 2023. Ed also loved golf and treasured the friendships he built over many years on the course with friends in Florida. He and Jane shared many close and lasting friendships with their Toronto and cottage communities – relationships that brought them great joy and laughter over the decades. These were the moments that brought him peace, happiness and connection. Ed's greatest pride and joy was his family. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Barbara Jane (née Coltart), with whom he shared a lifetime of love and laughter. Cherished father to Grant (Andrea) and Jennifer (Alex); and adored "Papa" to his grandchildren, Sophia, Olivia, Charlotte and Eddie. He was someone who truly appreciated life's simple pleasures – a quiet morning at the cottage, winters in Florida, long chats with his kids and any time spent with family. These were the rhythms of life he cherished most. He had a kind and generous spirit, and a warm, easy presence that made people feel immediately at ease. His sense of humour – sharp, joyful and unmistakably his – stayed with him until the very end. In place of a formal funeral, a celebration of Ed's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made in his memory to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
Published by The Globe and Mail from May 3 to May 7, 2025.