Maurice Eric Hopcroft

Our beloved father, Maurice Eric Hopcroft, passed away in the quiet hours of Saturday, August 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his children. He was 92.

Known to most as Eric, he lived a vibrant, renaissance life — one filled with exploration, reinvention, and deep connection. Born in London, England, the youngest of seven children, Eric experienced the upheaval of the Second World War, including evacuation from the city, before returning to graduate from Chiswick Grammar School. It was during those formative years that he developed a lifelong devotion to Chelsea Football Club.

Eric served in the British Navy during the Korean War and later emigrated to Toronto, where he settled in the Beach neighbourhood alongside his nephew Roy. The two not only forged new lives in Canada but shared a special bond — including frequent double dates with the women who would become their wives, Carolyn and Catherine.

Deeply loved by his children Laura and Adam, from his first wife Carolyn, and fondly remembered by his stepdaughter Michelle, from his second wife Lesley (from whom he was later divorced), Eric was a father who encouraged creativity, learning, and laughter. He will be dearly missed by his cherished grandchildren Hailey and Courtney, and by his son’s partner Tina. He will also be lovingly remembered by his brother George, as well as his extended family and wide circle of friends — all of whom will remember his warmth, wit, and generous spirit.

Eric wore many hats throughout his life — working as an electrician, a real estate agent, and later as an estimator. He was always active and curious, playing rugby and squash at the Balmy Beach Club, and later, in his 60s, donning soccer boots to play for the University of Toronto, where he boldly returned to pursue a degree in the arts.

It was at this stage in life that he reembraced his given name, Maurice, and dove into new passions: acting, dancing, clowning, and performing. He remained a fixture in Toronto’s cultural scene, always knowing the best neighbourhood haunts, secret parking spots, and the most exciting up-and-coming acts.

His love for classic cars — from American muscle to British sports models — was another thread that ran through his life, a symbol of both his style and spirit of adventure.

Maurice Eric Hopcroft was a steadfast supporter of his children’s pursuits and a beloved figure in the lives of their friends. His intelligence, unique perspective, and colourful stories enriched the lives of all who knew him.

A memorial gathering will be held in November, with details to be announced at a later date.

He lived fully, loved deeply, and will be profoundly missed!