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VINCENT TOVELL Obituary

VINCENT MASSEY TOVELL, O.C. 1922 - 2014 On May 6, 2014 at St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto. Youngest son of Dr. Harold Tovell and Ruth Massey, predeceased by his brothers Walter (Anita and Ruth), Freeman and Harold (Betty) and his nephews Harold and Craig. Dearly loved brother-in-law of Rosita (Freeman). Affectionately remembered uncle of Denton (Roberta), Susan (Peter Moogk), Marianne (Jerry Feniak), Rosemarie, Pat (Paul Skahan), Peter (Mark Plummer), Christopher and Daniel. Fondly remembered great- uncle of Rob, Janet, Jonathan, Benjamin, Anna, Wilson, Denton and Daniel. Vincent grew up in a large and close family of aunts, uncles and countless cousins at the Massey Family compound at Dentonia Park. The welfare of his family was always central to Vincent's life. As the family's pre-eminent historian he remained the strong and constant link between generations. Vincent had a long and distinguished career. He was educated at the University of Toronto (BA, 1945; MA, 1946) with subsequent studies at Columbia University, New York (1948 - 1950). While still an undergraduate in Toronto, Vincent began his long association with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, starting in radio in 1942. From 1957 until his retirement in 1987, he worked with CBC Television as a producer, writer and performer, particularly in the fields of arts and history documentaries. In this capacity he is remembered as an early supporter and friend of Glen Gould. Vincent played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Canadian Conference of the Arts and the National Theatre School. He was a benefactor to several cultural institutions such as the Art Gallery of Ontario, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection and the University of Toronto Arts Centre. Following his retirement, Vincent was appointed Senior Fellow of Massey College, University of Toronto. For his contributions to Canada, Vincent was named Officer of the Order of Canada in 2004. Vincent enjoyed a wide circle of wonderful friends. A gentleman of deep love and compassion, our Uncle Vincent was always fascinating, always eloquent - a very dear and remarkable uncle. A celebration of the life of Vincent will take place at Massey College on June 11, 2014 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

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Published by Toronto Star from May 9 to May 10, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for VINCENT TOVELL

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10 Entries

Tevvy Ball

June 6, 2014

My father became close friends with Vincent when they both worked at the UN in New York in the late 40s and early 50s, and they remained close, largely through long telephone conversations, for the next half-century. After my dad died in 2001, I was privileged to take up the baton, so to speak, of this sublime friendship, along with my sister. Over the last 13 years, Vincent and I spoke every few months, and it was rare for our conversations, filled as they were with such an abundance of life, to last less than an hour. I met him in person once, and I spoke with him for the last time a couple of months ago. Vincent was a remarkable man and a wonderful friend, and I will miss him greatly. I take comfort, however, in admiring the extraordinary life he led, and in seeing how many lives he touched, each of them, no doubt, in a singular way. Godspeed, my friend.

Jocelyn Ball-Edson

May 31, 2014

Whenever I've told anyone about Vincent, I've usually called him “my father's friend.” They met in New York in the 1940s, and stayed great friends by phone for the rest of my father's life. After my father died in 2001, my brother and I started calling and chatting with Vincent in our father's place. At some point I realized that Vincent had become our friend as well. Conversations were always interesting, filled with stories, knowledge and wisdom, caring and affection. The talent for great, real conversation is a rare gift, one with which Vincent was blessed, and which he shared with many. And many will miss him. What an extraordinary person!

Mark Laurie

May 13, 2014

I am so fortunate to have been able to spend time with Mr. Tovell over the last few years. He made an immense contribution to the arts and to broadcasting in Canada. Above all, he was a warm, compassionate, and deeply thoughtful man. I will miss him very much.

Ann (Pixie) Coombs

May 10, 2014

What an extraordinary life.... new pathways now to be explored.
The family reunion can only be imagined but will for sure encompass endless laughter, book reviews and joy!
Safe travels,
Pixie

Richard Coulter

May 10, 2014

With treasured memories of a friend
and respected colleague...
~Richard Coulter, Victoria, BC

Wayne Chau

May 10, 2014

I am very fortunate to have known Vincent. I will always cherish the conversations we had and the dinners we had together. He was a cherished friend and will be greatly missed.

Peter Moogk

May 10, 2014

Vincent welcomed me to the Tovell family as his niece's future husband and was extremely kind to us, hence we named our second son "Benjamin Vincent" to honour him.

Dentonia Farm

Dean Forward

May 10, 2014

I lived close to the Massey/ Goulding estate as a child. I loved the old 1926 Mansion and the history of the Massey family there. Saddened that you have lost such a great Uncle. What a life he had. God Bless Him. My condolences. You don't know me, I never met Vincent Massey Tovell but I respect this family greatly. Cherish your memories of Vincent always.

Waleed Qirbi

May 9, 2014

I had the privilege of meeting Vincent while serving as a Junior Fellow at Massey Colleg. Following my time at the University of Toronto, I saw the friendship continue.

Vincent Tovell was a true gentleman, a scholar, and a humanitarian. Most importantly, he was a true friend.

Vincent,

You shared your love of life and humanity with all of us; and, you inspired every one of us.

We will miss you, and thank God for letting us share some time together.

Linda Butler

May 9, 2014

During my thirteen years of ministry at Bloor Street United Church, I felt privileged to have the opportunity to get to know Vincent. Lunch with him was a highlight of my week - the conversation was always stimulating and his presence so gracious. A true gentleman and scholar.

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