Hugh A. CROTHERS

Hugh Anthony Crothers

It is with great sadness the Crothers Family announces the passing of Hugh Anthony Crothers in his 77th year on Sat. June 21, 2014. He was the son of the late George W. and Gertrude R. Crothers. He will be missed by his children, Renée Hay (Robert), Elizabeth, Kevin (Josie) and Hugh and their loving mother, Judy (Gough). Hugh is also survived by his sisters, Eleanor Leonard and Anne Marie Crothers, and brother George Crothers. 'Popa' was so very proud of his grandchildren, Stephanie Crothers, Alexandra, Anastasia and John Hay, Quinn Marie and Garrett Crothers. His grandchildren were the light of his life and brought out the very best in him. Hugh was President of Crothers Ltd., a Caterpillar Tractor Company. He was the proud Founder of the Toronto Zoo and the first Chairman of the Board of the Metropolitan Toronto Zoological Society. He also served as Commissioner on the Metropolitan Toronto Board of Commissioners of Police. In 1973 he was appointed by Premier Bill Davis as Chairman of the Royal Commission on Policing in Ontario. He also served as Director of the Toronto Catholic Children's Aid Society, Director on the Board of North York General Hospital and as a Board Member of the Granite Club in Toronto. Hugh was an intensely private man who took quiet pride in his many accomplishments during his life. He carried his Retired Police Commissioner's Badge with him every day. He was incredibly passionate about the Toronto Zoo. In 1963 he decided he wanted to build 'The World's Best Zoo' and true to form, the Toronto Zoo opened 12 years later on Aug. 15, 1975. It is a wonderful legacy. We are all so proud of you! A private service will be held by the family. In his memory and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dad's name to the Toronto Zoo or the Catholic Children's Aid Society. Condolences can be left online at www.lowandlow.ca