Obituary of Wilfred Arthur Boyce

WILFRED A. BOYCE Wilfred Arthur Boyce was born on the 12th of May, 1921, in London Ontario and was the eldest of three children. Charles and Ruth predeceased him in 1959 and 1967 respectively. Wilf served in the R.C.A.F. and with the R.A.F. in Bomber Command during W.W. II receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross with bar. On his return to civilian life Wilf chose to pursue a career in Social Work, which led to studies at the University of Western Ontario and a Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. His focus on the rehabilitation of persons on long term social assistance led to his professional career at the Toronto Department of Social Services. Latterly he served as Director of Child Care Services until his retirement in 1984. Wilf and his wife Marion have three children, Jeffrey, Martha (David) and Roger (Marianne) and five grandchildren, Matthew and Emma Mikelberg and Brett, Campbell and Jack Boyce. Family was central to Wilf’s sense of what really mattered in life. Spending time with his children and then grandchildren gave him much pleasure. Wilf’s balance to his work was an avid enthusiasm for sailing. Many happy hours were spent racing and running races on Lake Ontario, out of Ashbridges Bay Yacht Club. Retirement afforded time for adventurous travel, and Wilf and Marion spent more than two years exploring much of Europe, Great Britain and North America in their Volkswagen camper. Wilf’s gentle, caring way and innate listening skills endeared him to all who knew him. If you would like to make a donation in Wilf’s memory, the Family suggests that you consider the Walk-in Support Program of Fairlawn Avenue United Church. Every month the church opens its doors to those who are struggling to make ends meet, offering a friendly environment for a hot drink and snack, a chance for conversation, and help with buying groceries. Cheques can be made out to Fairlawn Avenue United Church, Attn: Walk-in Support or visit http://www.fairlawnchurch.ca/aboutus/donations/, select ‘Local Support’ and indicate Walk-In Support in the memo area. Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.