Obituary of Ronald Guy Willox

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Guy Willox on April 6th, 2022 in Toronto. Ron passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family who will remember him for his love, devotion and generosity.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marlene, his three children, Graeme (Amy), Jennifer (Raymond), Karen (Brian), and his five grandchildren, Ryan, Stephanie (Wisam), Jack, Kate and Emma.

Ron was born March 5, 1933 in Vancouver to Alfreda Matilda Nixon and John “Wink” Willox. He is survived by his brother Terry and family. He attended King Edward High School where he excelled in sports and was an active member of the Student Council. After graduation, he was hired as an office boy at American Can. As a sports fan, he loved to quote that his interview was on the same day that Bobby Thompson won the pennant for the New York Giants in 1951, a historic moment in baseball history. At American Can, Ron was promoted to the position of Cost Accountant, marking the start of his career in Finance.

He met Marlene (“Billie”) in Vancouver, and they were married on October 15th, 1955. Ron studied at UBC where he earned his C.G.A. in 1961.  Ron and Marlene welcomed Graeme in 1961, Jennifer in 1962, and Karen in 1976.

The family moved to Montreal in 1967, where Ron pursued his career at Power Corporation. In 1969, the family relocated to Toronto where Ron continued at Smith Brothers/Wajax. In the 1980s, he successfully advanced his career forward with the acquisition of Dixie Cup Canada. He was a well-respected Financial Consultant during the 1980s and 1990s in Toronto. He was a Director and Advisor at Toromont Industries from 1987 until his retirement at age 70, in 2003. During his lifetime of successful business endeavours, he made many lasting friendships. Ron had a strong sense of honesty and integrity and was often sought after for his extensive business expertise.

During retirement, Ron and Marlene enjoyed travelling around the world. While at home, Ron enjoyed following baseball (Toronto Blue Jays), basketball, football and golf. Ron was an avid golfer and member of the Donalda Club for many years where he had wonderful friends and memorable times.

Ron was extremely proud of his five grandchildren. He enjoyed seeing them grow and thrive through their educational, career and sporting accomplishments.

Ron and Marlene enjoyed family time at their chalet in the Collingwood area, which included hiking, skiing, gardening, campfires, and country drives. Ron had a love for the outdoors and landscape design, which included the planting of five trees in dedication to his grandchildren. Ron enjoyed walking with his children and had a way of speed walking which meant no one could keep up!

Ron’s legacy of leadership, strength, wisdom and wit will continue to live on in his family. He will be deeply missed by his loved ones.

The family will receive friends at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville) from 2:00- 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 13^th.  The family requests that masks be worn during the visitation.  If desired, donations to Yonge Street Mission, 306 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, ON M5A 2G7 or charity of choice would be appreciated.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

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