LIONEL SCHIPPER

Passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2026, at the age of 93, following a brief illness. He had an extraordinary life full of adventures, accomplishments and above all, family. He left an indelible mark on all his relationships with warmth, humour and integrity. Born in Toronto on September 1, 1932. He was a devoted son to the late Bea and Joe Schipper; and brother to Arthur, who left the world far too early. He married Carol Mendelson, daughter of the late Fai and Lou Mendelson, and shared a beautiful marriage together for 71 years until Carol's passing in 2024. From a young age Lionel was a lover of all sports and an avid birder. As a teenager, he began a lifelong love of skiing, tennis and golf, all of which he excelled at and loved to share with his family and friends. Lionel had a remarkable career in law and business, held in the highest esteem by all. He was named to the Queen's Counsel, the Order of Canada and received an Honorary Doctorate of Law from the University of Toronto. Lionel was a community leader, committed to many causes including the UJA and the Baycrest Centre. In addition, he contributed to the founding of the Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, CJPAC and the Bora Laskin Law Library. Lionel was a loving and present parent, grandparent and great-grandparent, survived by his children, Ruthe Schipper and Jerry Rotstein, Marilyn and David Gotfrid, Stuart and Jayne Schipper, and Michael Schipper and Leah Lepofsky. Grandfather to Carly, Kate (Rich), Haley (Abir), Andrew (Amy), Sarah, Jeremy, Ethan and Asher; and great-grandfather to Jonah, Bea, Harris and Ori. The family would like to thank his compassionate caregivers, Imelda, Jo-Jo and Helen, Dr. Russell Goldman at the Temmy Latner Centre Team, Dr. Keith Stewart and the Princess Margaret Hospital and Dr Kira Gullane and Rachelle. Funeral services will be Sunday, February 8th, at Benjamin's Memorial at 10:00 a.m. Donations in his memory may be made to the Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases at University of Toronto at https://bit.ly/3WaUZIt, by calling (416) 978-0811, or by email to clare.wheeler@utoronto.ca.