Terence "Terry" Roderick Whate

Terry grew up in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario but spent all of his summers in his favourite place - his cherished family cottage that his parents bought and built on Lake Muskoka in 1938. It was there that he developed a love for swimming, boating, and working on engines with his dad, activities that he was so happy to eventually share with his children and grandchildren.

In 1968, after completing his degree at McMaster University, Terry enrolled in the Faculty of Education at Althouse College, University of Western Ontario. It was there that he met the love of his life, Lois. They were married in 1972 and spent the next 52 years together. Terry always considered himself a teacher and was eager to take every opportunity to share his wisdom and knowledge with anyone who would listen. Even after he left teaching, he still played a role in educating the next generation as an Air Cadet officer at 892 Squadron, where he volunteered for many years.

After four years of teaching at Nelson High School in Burlington, he went back to school and became a Chartered Accountant. Spending some years in the corporate world, he became aware of the toll that this type of competitive environment can take on one’s health and life, so in 1988, he and a friend bought and began to grow Mothersill Printing in Bowmanville. This allowed him to work mostly from home and he was pleased that this allowed him to spend much more time with his family. He continued to operate the business until his retirement in 2005.

In 2006, Terry fulfilled his lifelong dream of retiring to Muskoka, where he and Lois built a beautiful home overlooking the lake. His happiest times were when his children and grandchildren were all together in that place, enjoying the same experiences that he had cherished throughout his whole life.

All his life, Terry was an accomplished pianist. In his last ten years, he began to put his trust in Jesus and spent many hours playing his favourite hymns, always with Lo singing along.

Terry is survived by his wife, Lois, his children Erica (Jess) and Rod (Alexandra) and his seven grandchildren, Jonah, Benji, Kobe, Matti, Teddy, Levi, and Norah. He will be deeply missed by his extended family and cherished friends.

A visitation will take place at St. George’s Anglican Church Burlington, 4691 Palladium Way, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 10:00 am, followed by a celebration of life service at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, Terry’s family would greatly appreciate donations to Hospice Wellington, a place that truly honours families in their most challenging times, through preserving comfort and dignity. Donations and condolences can be made at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com