Liam Brendan Traynor

In the early morning hours of July 7, 2023, Liam Brendan Traynor passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, in his sleep beside Philomena – his wife of nearly 55 years. With his 80th birthday approaching, Liam leaves a legacy of kindness.

While travelling through Europe from Wellington, New Zealand, Liam met Phil in London, England. At the Hammersmith Palais in 1967, Liam asked Phil to dance and that simple question sparked a love story. In 1968, they came to Canada to start a life together and soon found a community among the Irish and English immigrants living in Toronto.

"I’m just a plumber,” he’d say, but Liam earned credentials from the prestigious Purdue University and taught hundreds of tradesmen through the United Association’s Local 46 Union, where he remained a lifelong member. Liam changed careers at 37 years old to become a sales manager for Honeywell, where he achieved multiple years as Canada’s top salesman. He retired to travel, watch rugby and spend time with his five grandchildren.

Liam was an avid rugby player. He stepped onto the pitch at five years old and played until he was 48 – playing his last game with his youngest son, Brendan. A member of the Ajax Wanderers, Liam also played for Team Ontario.

With so much love in our hearts, we will fondly remember Liam’s quiet strength, big laugh, hearty debates and constant helping hand. He was a devoted husband, proud father, thoughtful grandfather, loyal brother, great storyteller and a good friend.

Liam’s memory lives on in his wife, Philomena (Spillane); his three boys and their wives, Sean (Chrissy), Niall (Sarah) and Brendan (Andrea); and his beloved grandkids – Kyan, Chloe, Quinnlan, Devyn and Emmy.

He was predeceased by his parents, Sean and Margaret, and sister, Marie; and is survived by his siblings (Brendan, Margaret and Carmel) and their families in New Zealand, along with his sister in Canada, Joan.

There will be a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Parish (200 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ont., M1C 1E8) followed by a private burial. We invite everyone to a reception – located at the church – immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Canadian Mesothelioma Foundation.