GREGORY GEORGE SPEARN

(1952 - 2025) Greg passed away peacefully, in the ICU at Toronto Western Hospital (UHN) on September 19, 2025, surrounded by his family and his excellent and compassionate healthcare team. He turned 73 on September 15, 2025. Greg was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Frances; and will be deeply missed by his uncle, Ean Maxwell (Pat); his sister, Ann (Norman); his brothers, John (Diana), Scott (Paula) and Rob; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved English Setter, Charlie. Born in 1952, Greg built an extraordinary career as a respected and articulate leader in the real estate and housing sectors, with over 30 years of executive management experience across Canada and the United States. He received his degree in Urban Planning from Metropolitan (Ryerson) University. Over his career, he was instrumental in managing and developing projects in both Canada and the US; restructuring corporations, and leading large-scale revitalization efforts that combined financial expertise with a deep commitment to social housing. His crowning professional achievement was his tenure as President and CEO of Toronto Community Housing Corporation, where he led a comprehensive rebuilding process to significantly improve tenant living conditions and customer service for more than 110,000 residents. Greg's professional life was matched by his personal passions. He was a lifelong birdwatcher and avid nature photographer, finding joy in the outdoors. To him, Spring never truly arrived until the first Oriole appeared at his backyard feeders – a tradition that brought him happiness year after year. The family is grateful for the outstanding healthcare team of the Medical ICU, Pod 7 at TWH. Your care and compassion for Greg and our family made an incredible difference. Your respect for Greg's wishes and the comfort you extended to us will forever be remembered. A private family interment will be held, followed by a Celebration of Life on November 8, 2025, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Islington Golf Club, 45 Riverbank Drive, Toronto, M9A 5B8. If wished, donations in Greg's memory may be made to The Krembil Brain Institute at Toronto Western Hospital, Covenant House or a Charity of Your Choice. Greg will be remembered for his leadership, vision, humour, and the warmth he shared with family, colleagues, and friends. His legacy lives on in the communities he shaped and the lives he touched.