Obituary of William Black

William Edward Black 1925-2010 William (Bill) Edward Black was born in Toronto, on December 26, 1925 to Eddie and Edith Black. On March 6, 2010, Bill passed away at St. Michael's Hospital with his family by his side. After struggling with cancer, he is now at peace and with 'Our Heavenly Father.' He is survived by his wife and best friend of over sixty years, Frances (nee Graham). Loving father to Cassie, Eddie (Judy), Donald and David (Jannyne). He was an adoring, magnificent, and colourful Poppa to Laura, Andrea (Paul), Lindsay, Danielle (J.P), Jennifer, Pamela (Marco), Ashley, Frances Anne, Kelly, Graham, Jody, Brittany, Kristine, and Edward. Great-Grandfather to Johnny and Tristan. He was the big brother of Bob (Lois) both deceased, Barbara (John Wurster), Barry (Marlies), and Bruce (Edie). He will be remembered by dearest friends Bob Flanagan and Arnold and Lynn Irwin. As a young man, Bill served in World War II. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and transferred to the Royal Canadian Navy where he assisted in de-commissioning the warships in Halifax. In business, Bill was highly recognized and respected in the photographic industry. Together with his brother Bob, they co-founded Black's Photo Corporation and grew it into a family business with Barbara, Barry and Bruce. Bill had time for everyone and in particular for charitable organizations. He was President of the Downtown Toronto Kiwanis Club, served on the Boards of Irwin Toy Limited, St. Joseph's Health Centre and Scott's Hospitality Inc. He was Honourary President of the Toronto Junior Board of Trade and a twenty-five year member of the Advisory Board of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company. In his spiritual life, Bill possessed deep faith and was devoted to his church. He sang the hymns loud and clear at mass each week and when it was over, he celebrated by rushing to the donut shop! He was a fearless dresser; there wasn't a colour he wouldn't wear nor a pattern he wouldn't mix. All who knew him will miss his larger than life personality. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 11 and from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 12. Mass of Christian Burial will be held in HOLY ROSARY CHURCH, 354 St. Clair Avenue West, (416-923-8471) on Saturday, March 13 at 2:00 p.m. Private interment. If desired and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bill and Frances' lead charity, to which they have been Gold Members of for over twenty years: St. Michael's Hospital Foundation, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, 416-864-5000, www.stmichaelshospital.com/foundation. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.