RICHARD DUFFIN

Richard (Dick) Gordon Duffin passed away peacefully at Christie Gardens, surrounded by his wife, June Elliot; two daughters, Kelly Duffin and Megan Wykes; and close friends Ken and Gwenne. Born in Windsor, Ontario, he was the second of four children of Jean and Gordon Duffin. His early years were spent in southwestern Ontario around London and Kingsville, close to his Uncle Charlie and Aunt Millie's farm, which he loved. Dick's family moved to Toronto as his father's career in education advanced. After graduating from McMaster University, Dick followed his dad into education, working first as a primary school teacher (Annette Street Public School) and eventually becoming a principal in various schools in York Region, Kleinburg, Markham and Richmond Hill. Dick was a voracious reader, like his mother, and a life-long lover of all different kinds of music including jazz, blues, classical and more. He played numerous instruments over the many years – guitar, 'cello, mandolin and ukulele. He greatly enjoyed taking guitar lessons from his cousin, the late Tom Duffin. Over the last two years, Dick delighted in bringing music to Christie Gardens, organizing popular jazz, classical, Argentinian tango and fusion concerts. His introductions to these concerts were highly entertaining as he meticulously researched the groups and shared some fascinating details. Dick was a loving father and husband. He was a very kind and thoughtful man who was fair minded and non-judgemental, a highly principled person. He was also an incredibly knowledgeable computer/tech guru, always more than happy to lend a hand. Generous of spirit, he delighted in the successes of others. He was hugely supportive and appreciative of everyone in his circle and beyond. He treasured his relationships with his wife, June; his daughters, Kelly (husband Dean Walker) and Megan (child Saskia Wykes, partner Vahid Raoufi); his sisters, Dorothy Henley (husband the late Clare), Judy Wyshynski (husband Peter) and Kathleen Copping (husband Craig), and their families; as well as June's children Cathy, James, Andrew and David Cameron, and their families. He particularly enjoyed living very close to his daughters for the past few years while at Christie Gardens – seeing blockbuster movies, going for chicken wings and celebrating special occasions. There will be a Celebration of Life for Dick at Christie Gardens (600 Melita Crescent, Toronto) on Sunday, July 21, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Condolences may be sent to www.humphreymiles.com.