Laurence Edward BECKER

BECKER, Laurence Edward MD FRCPC
Died peacefully at home surrounded by his family July 17, 2002 after a full and happy life sadly shortened by cancer. Beloved husband of Edna Becker. His unfailing love, guidance and support will be greatly missed by his daughters: Lisa (David Allan), Andrea (Jeffrey Strachan), Maia Suzanne as well as his grandson Tyler. He will be dearly missed by his mother Doris, brothers Daryl, David (Nancy), Kevin (Tracy), and Richard (Carol), and nieces and nephews in Edmonton.
Laurence graduated from the University of Alberta Medical School (1967) and completed postgraduate specialization in neuropathology at the University of Toronto and Johns Hopkins Medical School. He joined the U of T Faculty of Medicine, the Hospital for Sick Children (HSC) and Toronto General Hospital in 1974. In 1980, Laurence was appointed Professor in the Department of Pathology at U of T. He was the founding Chief of the Department of Pediatric Laboratory Medicine and Head, Division of Pathology at HSC, and was recently re-appointed for a second term as Chief. Laurence was Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee at HSC from 1996-2000 and contributed extensively to numerous hospital, university and international academic committees. Laurence was considered a world authority on Pediatric Neuropathology. He authored over 300 publications, held numerous research grants, was an invited speaker at scientific meetings around the world and recipient of numerous awards and honours. In his years with the HSC, Laurence fostered a strong learning environment, not only for colleagues, but also a network of international postgraduate trainees. He had a particular research interest in sudden infant death syndrome and was Chair of the Research Advisory Council for the Canadian SIDS Foundation.
Laurence loved traveling, theatre, opera, and was a collector of antiques and oil lamps. An avid runner, he participated in the Toronto marathon as well as other races. Laurence has inspired family, friends and colleagues in many ways and he will live in our hearts forever.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:30 a.m. from Kingsway Lambton United Church, 85 The Kingsway, Toronto. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to establish lectureships in his name at The Hospital For Sick Children Foundation, 555 University Ave., Toronto M5G 1X8 or the SIDS Foundation 586 Eglinton Ave. E., Suite 308, Toronto M4P 1P2 are requested and would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements entrusted with the Turner & Porter 'Yorke' Chapel, Toronto, 416-767-3153.