NEIL THOMAS NORRIS

On October 25, 2025, Neil Thomas Norris left the ball field after playing extra innings despite numerous health issues. Born July 25, 1940, Neil was very proud of his East York roots; attended East York Collegiate, Upper Canada College, Western University and University of Toronto Law after which he practised corporate law in Toronto for decades. Neil had a generosity of spirit; always seeing the best in people and accepting them simply for who they were. He could see the humour in most situations and his ability to form friendships was consistent throughout his life. As a testament to his personality, Neil left UCC as Head Prefect despite not knowing a single soul upon arrival. Laughter was a major attribute of Neil's personality and his somewhat boisterous laugh meant you often heard Neil before seeing him. He was a natural daredevil with exploits too many to mention; not all of them wise. One of his better choices was singing in a folk group called "The Innkeepers" which performed at the Mariposa Folk festival and the Bohemian Embassy in Toronto (usually garnering the popular 2 am time slot!). Neil approached life in song; (both with the United Church choir and in folk clubs in Toronto including The Purple Onion); in laughter shared and with hearts warmed. He left the party richer, spicier and infinitely more awake. Neil also loved sports, especially his beloved Blue Jays, and coached both sons in baseball and skiing. Predeceased by his parents, Tom and Anna, and sister Linda, he is survived by his brother Gary; sons Ryan and Christopher; granddaughter Evelyn, and wife Karen as well as extended family and friends from Montreal to Vancouver Island. Neil's rich laughter will continue to ring out and bless the lives he has nurtured and left behind for now. Although he laughed loudly, he left this life quietly and peacefully. Neil is fondly remembered and will be forever missed. Many heartfelt thanks to Belmont House for their amazingly compassionate care over the years and Toronto General Hospital in his final days; their kindness and care throughout is truly and deeply appreciated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Charity of Your Choice or to Belmont House which continues to provide compassionate care for our seniors. A Celebration of Life will be held at Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Ave (south of Davisville), Toronto, on January 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.