George Meadows

George Meadows (1938-2025), beloved husband, son, father, grandfather and cherished friend to many, lived a life rich with love, laughter, and cherished memories. George passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 22, 2025. Husband of 61 years to Donna, loving father of Lee Ann and Shelly (Jon) and proud grandfather of Aidan, Emily, Eileen and Owen. Predeceased by his parents George and Eve and sister June (Fred).

Remembered fondly for his charisma and charm, his remarkable smile and often impish grin. George had a passion for sailing, good wine, and cars and he always enjoyed spending time surrounded by friends and family. Listening to music was a constant in his life to the very last day.

A chartered accountant and successful businessman by trade, George’s favourite professional role was undoubtedly President of the University of Toronto Press. He continued to connect with his colleagues for the decades he enjoyed post-retirement.

George was always happiest on his boat and being out in the sunshine. He was honoured to have had the privilege to serve as Commodore of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club for two consecutive terms. He was a very active RCYC member - sailing, dining, playing squash and badminton and he was a regular companion for the early risers in the fitness studio. He could reliably be found on the water for Tuesday night and TGIF races. Beyond the yacht club, he enjoyed regular rounds of golf with friends and going to live theatre. In the off-sailing season he was also an avid skier.

We’d like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the medical staff and caregivers at Sunnybrook palliative care who were exceptionally kind and supportive over the past few months of George’s life.

A celebration of life for George will be held at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club (RCYC), 141 St George Street in Toronto, on November 22, 2025 from 3 pm to 5 pm with a brief tribute by family members at approximately 4pm. If you are planning to attend the celebration of life please let us know in advance if possible at: Celebrategeorgemeadows@yahoo.com in order to assist us in planning, and so we can advise the club about expected numbers.

As this is a celebration of life, we encourage people to wear their favourite colours. George’s favourite colour was blue, and in his final years he developed quite an affinity for vibrant and bold colours. Please feel free to send photos if you’d like to share for his celebration of life.

As we gather to pay tribute to George’s memory, let us celebrate the joy, love, and laughter he brought into our lives. His spirit will forever shine bright in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him, and he will not be forgotten.

Please note: Parking at the RCYC is restricted to members only, and parking around the RCYC is limited so we encourage the use of public transit as much as possible. The RCYC entrance is immediately adjacent to the St. George subway station. There is parking available at The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) on Prince Arthur Avenue for a fee.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to cancer research, Sunnybrook Palliative Care, Easter Seals or another charity of your choice.