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Alan KING

1947 - 2021

Alan KING obituary, 1947-2021, Toronto, ON

BORN

1947

DIED

2021

Alan KING Obituary

ALAN KING 1947 - 2021 It is with great sadness that the King family announces the peaceful passing of Alan King on February 8, 2021, at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. Alan was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland and emigrated with his parents Alfred and Maureen King in 1948 eventually settling in Whitby, Ontario. Predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Susan (Foster) King, and lovingly remembered by his two children, Christopher (Jessica) and Chloe (Romain), and sisters Gayle (Gary) Dudeck and Elaine Bird. Alan studied classical piano, organ and English at Western University. An extraordinary, self-taught artist, Alan first worked in advertising and publishing, with some of his early illustrations appearing in the Toronto Star, Maclean's, Time magazine and Readers Digest. Alan joined the Ottawa Citizen in 1979, where he worked as editorial cartoonist for 17 years. He was known for his sharp wit and smart satirical commentary (later donating over 700 political cartoons to the National Archives). He also contributed arts and book reviews. After leaving the newspaper business, Alan had a successful career as a commercial illustrator, his work represented by a U.S.-based agent. He designed coins for the Royal Canadian Mint and illustrated stamps for Canada Post. When he returned to Toronto in 2013, he transitioned into web design and digital illustration, while teaching watercolour and digital art at George Brown College. Alan was a member of the Arts and Letters Club in Toronto, where he will be remembered for his stimulating conversations and infectious laughter. His prolific output transcended convention and categorization and included oil portraits - one of his greatest passions, along with music. His paintings included such notables as William Aide (Musician/Artist), Andrew Absil (Anglican Bishop), Leonard Lee (Founder of Lee Valley), and Elizabeth Kilbourne (Anglican Priest). Alan died after unexpected complications following heart surgery, despite every effort by staff at St. Mike's to save him. The family is especially grateful to the doctors and nurses in the cardiovascular ICU, as well as for all the friends who sent their tributes and words of kindness. Due to the restrictions surrounding COVID-19 a funeral will not be held at this time. A virtual ceremony is planned for a later date.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Feb. 13 to Feb. 17, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Alan KING

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15 Entries

Linda McMaster

March 29, 2021

Alan was a wonderful artist and charming individual. He was involved in Artbarn School and I truly wish I had known him better. We have a lovely painting of his in our window with old buildings on Queen Street and would be happy to give it back to his family.

Gaye and Bruce Ward

March 1, 2021

Alan’s talents brought laughter and beauty to a world much in need of both. Such a pleasure to know him and such a loss to lose him so soon.

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Susan and Gil Hartley and Family

February 18, 2021

We would like to offer sincere condolences to the King family on Alan’s passing. Our son, Scott, was a good friend of Christopher’s in high school. (Sadly they have lost touch over time and distance). During those early years, Alan gave us two political cartoons which remain framed by our desk. We often think of him, his generosity and his extraordinary talent to capture a moment, when we admire them.

His obituary reveals a life well lived, one with principles, diverse talents and interests. He will undoubtedly be sorely missed but we hope the memories will sustain you.

Bob/Sheila Robertson

February 18, 2021

Alan was a gifted artist who showed his promise early. As a childhood neighbour I remember the incredible seascape he painted directly on his parents’ living room wall!
Our condolences to Gayle and Elaine, and the entire King family.
Bob Robertson

Anton Leo

February 17, 2021

Chloe, my sincerest condolences to you and your family. Much love. Anton

Marlene and Ted Mazur

February 15, 2021

Alan seems like he lived an extraordinary life, he accomplished so much, and seemed to have done everything he wanted to do. He will be missed.
You have your wonderful memories and hopefully that will be of comfort to you, in the coming days.

Juliet O'Neill

February 15, 2021

Alan was a lovely man. My heart goes out to his family. How heartbreaking.

John Parikhal

February 14, 2021

Alan's amazing talent, sense of humor, and sharp intellect sustained our friendship of 59 years. My heart goes out to the family for this huge loss.

Marvyne Jenoff

February 14, 2021

A few years ago Alan and I were co-chairs of the Art Committed at the Arts and Letters Club, where we all enjoyed his arts and his sunny personality. When our two-year term was completed we remained friends and would meet in our neighborhood. He was very close to his family, and would talk about family visits and holiday gatherings, which he looked forward to. My condolences to all of you. Alan’s death is a loss for so many of us.

Amber

February 13, 2021

Gayle, Gary, Bradley and family: We are so sorry to hear about Alan’s passing. Our deepest sympathies to you all.
Amber, Geoff and Gabriella

Bev/Jim Aikenhead

February 13, 2021

My condolences to the King family.
I remember Alan most for being the big brother of my lifelong friend (his sister) Elaine. I was fortunate to hear him play the pipe organ many times at the Anglican church in port Whitby. He always looked so happy to play for family weddings and funerals. More recently, his children's book has inspired our grandchildren with creative prose and superb illustrations.
Bev

Colleen Pearce

February 13, 2021

ayle & family: My family lived at 905 Bayview and you and I went to HSHS and Cavan my brother and Allen were at HSHS at the same time. My condolences.

Gerrylyn Leus

February 13, 2021

Dear Chris, Wayne and I are very sorry to hear of your dad's sudden passing. Please know that we are thinking about you and your family at this sad time. Gerry and Wayne Leus

Marjut nousiainen

February 12, 2021

Alan was so talented and with diverse gifts. He contributed to many events and shows at the Arts and Letters Club. Often we would be delighted to hear him playing the piano there! If anyone needed help or advice re painting - he was always kind and also funny! Just cannot really believe that this wonderful man will not be at the Club when it once again opens. We wish Allan's family warmth and may the sunshine that shines from your memories hold you safely and with love.

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