MALCOLM LESTER Obituary

LESTER, MALCOLM On Friday, April 1, 2022, at Humber River Hospital, due to Parkinsons complications. He passed away peacefully and with dignity. Beloved brother to Brian, Judy and Michael. Uncle to Karen, Nicole, David, Melanie, Graham, William, Michael and Jonathan. Malcolm ran Lester & Orpen Dennys, one of Canada's most distinguished publishers. He was also past president of the Association of Canadian Publishers. The Literary Review of Canada named 3 of the books Malcolm published as among the most important Canadian books of the 20th century. He will be greatly missed. May his memory be a blessing to all. A graveside service will be held at Holy Blossom Memorial Park, 66 Brimley Road (south of Eglinton) on Monday, April 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. Donations may be made to Parkinson Canada www.parkinson.ca 1-800-565-3000.

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Published by Toronto Star on Apr. 4, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for MALCOLM LESTER

7 Entries

Barbara Gowdy

July 26, 2022

I found out rather late, only last week, in fact, that the wonderful Malcolm had died. I owe him a great deal, as he's the reason I became a writer. In 1974 he and his brother, Brian--along with Malcolm's partner, Eve Orpen--hired me to answer phones and type letters in the office they shared on Charles Street East. Eventually, with Malcolm's encouragement, I graduated to reading and editing manuscripts. Doing that work gave me the confidence to begin writing my own books. I wasn't always the most grateful or diligent employee, but both Malcolm and Brian cut me a lot of slack. What an intelligent, optimistic, patient, sweet, good man Malcolm was. They broke the mold.

Aviva Moira Mayers

May 27, 2022

I just found out that Malcolm died last month. I'm so sorry..He was instrumental in my getting my book project off the ground. His belief in the project, his encouragement, his thoughtful feedback and availability helped me to keep going in the face of adversity- I remain ever appreciative and greatful for his help and friendship.
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Jill Andersons

April 18, 2022

Malcolm was a wonderful friend and lunch partner during my years at Massey College. I am so sorry for the family´s loss of this gentle man.

Rui Umezawa

April 10, 2022

Malcolm generously took time to guide me through a key passage in my novel, a dialogue between an elderly Japanese woman and a Holocaust survivor. I will never forget his kindness. My deepest condolences to his family.

Alison Morgan

April 7, 2022

My first job in publishing was at L&OD - it was a wonderful place to start a career that has brought great satisfaction. Malcolm was a quiet, thoughtful leader and I benefitted so much from the years I worked for him. I am grateful to have known him. My condolences.

Erica Fischer

April 4, 2022

Malcolm was a long time good friend of my uncle Jack Shapiro. They are both gone now. My condolences to the family.

Heather Chisvin

April 4, 2022

He was a great addition to the publishing world and the musical world in Toronto.

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MALCOLM LESTER

MALCOLM LESTER Obituary

Memories and Condolences for MALCOLM LESTER

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Memories and Condolences
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Memorial Events
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