PHILIP TOWNSHEND MURTON

MURTON, PHILIP TOWNSHEND Words cannot express our sadness at the loss of Philip, 70, who died on December 4, 2020, from complications of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Philip, son of the late Douglas and Phyllis Murton, was the beloved husband of Deanna (Dunn). He was also the proud father of Delreet Murton (Sean Vandoninck) and Daniel Murton (Nicole Priest), whom he raised as a single parent, and the loving grandfather of Graeme, Malcolm and Thomas. Philip also leaves his brother, Paul Murton, his longtime best friend, Prof. Paul Gallina, and his first wife, Connie Harrison. He will also be dearly missed by many relatives, friends and comrades. Philip worked for 30-plus years in IT at the University of Toronto, retiring as a network specialist in 2015. A former student radical, he was one of the original members of International Socialists in Toronto in 1975, and was a fixture at demos, rallies and sales of the Socialist Worker newspaper. He played an important role in unionizing administrative staff at the University of Toronto and was a proud member of United Steelworkers local 1998. He believed that a better world was possible, and he walked the walk to make that happen as long as he was able. Sincere thanks to all the medical personnel, family and friends who assisted Philip over the past six years. Special thanks to retired LHIN worker Laurie Barker, caregivers John and Rhoi, and also to Kensington Gardens, a not-for-profit nursing home, where he received magnificent care from the heroic staff for the past 19 months. Due to Covid restrictions, there will be a small family burial with a celebration of life to follow when permitted. In memory of Philip, please consider a donation to Kensington Gardens at www.kensingtonhealth.org/donate. And please join one of the campaigns against profit in long-term care.