Jeff Braunstein

It is so hard to believe that just over a week ago he was busy working on a theatre project with his wife. Fate intervened and caused a brain injury from which he could not recover.

Jeff was an active 80-year old who was looking forward to some international touring in the Fall and lots of time with his beloved family.

Jeff and his twin sister Othylia (deceased) were born in Cairo. Their parents Harry Braunstein (Born in Romania) and Riquette Cadranel (Born in Turkey) started their family in Cairo, later emigrating through Cyprus to settle in England where Jeff attended school, and graduated in drama from London University. The family emigrated to Toronto in 1969 where Jeff continued his acting career. He and Maja Ardal, actor/playwright met in 1970 while working at Toronto Workshop Productions. They fell in love, married, and soon after, started a family. Jeff balanced his life with acting, directing, producing, and raising their children.

He was co-owner and president of Asterix Productions an industrial show company that entertained conventions and events around the world for over 20 years.

He served for two terms as President of Canadian Actors Equity Association 1980-86

receiving the Larry McCance Award for outstanding contribution to the membership.

He also served as President of Performing Arts Lodges, Toronto.

Two years ago Jeff was delighted to return to the stage performing in Theatre Aquarius’ production of Norm Foster’s “Jonas and Barry at the Home”

He and wife Maja Ardal have recently returned after several years in Muskoka, to live in Toronto and he was busily catching up with old pals, creating theatre with Maja, and spending good time with his family.

It still feels so unreal that these joys should be cut short too soon.

Jeff and Maja had 55 glorious years together, raising children, working together, welcoming kids and friends into their bustling home, and going on adventurous holidays.

He is survived by his son Paul Braunstein, actor/screenwriter, daughter Inga Cadranel actor/screenwriter. He was the beloved grandpa of five grandchildren, and great grandpa of one. He was the adored uncle of nine nieces and nephews and their nine children.

We wish to thank the nurses, staff and doctors of St Michael’s hospital for their fine care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Jeff’s name, to the following organization which helps those in the entertainment profession with a variety of needs;

The AFC (formerly the Actors Fund of Canada)

Email: [email protected]

There will be a Celebration of Jeff’s Life in November, date and time to be determined.