Donald Wilfred Radford

Our dear friend and brother passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Friday, March 6, 2026, at Scarborough General Hospital in Toronto. He will be deeply missed by his close friend Andrea Gader, his sister Janet Warren (Ken), his brother Brian Radford (Cori), his sister-in-law Joanne Power, and his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Doris (née Daly) and Wilfred Radford, as well as his brother John Radford.

Don was born on August 6, 1956, in Montreal’s west end. In 1960, the family moved to Toronto, settling in Victoria Village. Many of the friendships he formed in that neighborhood endured throughout his life.

He had a deep love for the outdoors, especially the Don Valley ravine system, where he spent countless hours walking miles each day often accompanied by Dana, a neighbor’s dog; or would enjoy the company of a friend.

Don was known for his insight, humor, and thoughtful nature. Exceptionally well-read and largely self-taught, he developed a lifelong love of learning, spending much of his childhood in the local library—where he also held his first job at the age of 15. Friends, acquaintances, and coworkers often turned to him for advice when facing difficult decisions. He was a kind and compassionate listener, always ready to offer a thoughtful conversation.

Creativity was a constant in Don’s life. As a young man, he wrote creatively and began playing the violin in grade school. In later years, he applied his skills from working in renovations to completing numerous custom projects in his own apartments and in the homes of friends. He also crafted unique pieces of furniture, many of which he generously gifted to neighbors and loved ones.

Although Don never held a driver’s license, he worked for over two decades as a forklift operator at an asphalt emulsion plant near Leaside. During his more than 25 years there, he took on many important roles, including assisting with lab formulations, inventory management, bookkeeping, and shipping and receiving. He was recognized multiple times for his contributions to creating a safer and more efficient workplace. His friends will fondly remember the many stories he shared from his years at the plant.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Precious Blood Catholic Church, 1737 Lawrence Avenue East, Scarborough, at 1:00 p.m., followed by interment at St. Jude’s Cemetery, 10 Howarth Avenue, Scarborough, behind St. Jude’s Anglican Church. Don, may you rest in the peace of Christ.