MAI KIRCH

(1940 – 2025) She passed away in Toronto on August 7, 2025, with the help of MAID. Predeceased by her dear parents, Leida and Edward; and survived by her brother, Edward (June); and close relatives in Estonia and Finland, including beloved goddaughter, Laura (Taevet); and precious friends of long-standing in Canada and the USA. Mai was born in Soviet-occupied Estonia, where she survived bombings, air raids and refugee camps for DP's. She came to Canada, arriving in Halifax without a word of English. Mai graduated from the University of Toronto in Modern Languages and taught high school French in North York. After five years, she transferred to Ottawa to work in the Public Service. Upon retirement, Mai dedicated herself to volunteering – fundraising for the Canadian Opera Company and the Recording Studio of the C.N.I.B. She could not imagine life without the Arts. In her memory, donations could be made to the Canadian Opera Company or The Stratford Festival.