Obituary of Stephen Corbett

 

STEPHEN DEAN CORBETT

 

It is with profound sadness that the family of Stephen, age 57, announce his sudden passing on February 11, 2023, in Irving, Texas, of natural causes.

 

Stephen is survived by his wife, Jennifer Corbett (nee Higginson), their two children, Anderson (age 16) and Estelle (age 12).  He was predeceased by his mother, Gina Corbett of Austin, Texas, as well as his brother, David Corbett of Hamilton, Ontario. He was very fond of his Aunt Ann Lucas (nee Corbett) and Uncle Robin Lucas of Janesville, WI, as well as his cousins: Tracy Lucas of Chicago, IL, John Lucas of Janesville, WI and Mark Lucas of Missoula, MT.

 

After marrying in 2004, Stephen was a dedicated spouse and soon after a father, who always put the needs of his family first.  When he wasn’t away working in the United States, Stephen loved spending time with his son, Anderson, taking him on long TTC rides, swimming, biking and their favourite, excursions to Riverdale Farm. He adored his daughter, Estelle, and together they spent many hours going to movies, watching science fiction/fantasy series, and enjoying activities such as swimming and biking. A cherished memory for Estelle was taking a very special trip to Italy last summer.  She will miss her dad’s penchant for telling corny jokes and always being keen to help her with homework or give her an impromptu history lesson.

 

Stephen completed a BA Commerce at Carleton University and a Master’s Degree at Chaminade University, Hawaii, at the Japan-America Institute of Management Science (JAIMS). He lived in Japan after graduating and worked for Toyota, gaining expertise in Kaizen (continuous improvement) and becoming an expert in Lean Operations.  When he returned to North America, he worked for Stanley Tools and went on to an Engagement Manager position at McKinsey and Company in their Atlanta, Georgia office. In 2002, he moved to the Toronto office, becoming a partner in 2006.  Stephen enjoyed his 13-year tenure at McKinsey, making many good friends whom he enjoyed ongoing friendships with.  After serving in executive positions at several Ontario-based companies, Stephen returned to the United States in 2020, as an executive in the auto parts manufacturing industry.

 

Beyond work, Stephen was always interested in giving back to the community. When Stephen and Jennifer married in July of 2004, they decided to make Covenant House Toronto their main charitable focus. Stephen served in various capacities, including chair of the finance committee and chair of the board from 2009 to 2012.   Long after stepping away from board roles, he was proud to wear a Covenant House lapel pin whenever he donned a suit and would gladly talk about the great work Covenant House does for vulnerable youth. 

 

In his free time, Stephen enjoyed Bahala Na Martial Arts and also had a black belt in Karate. He was an avid history buff and follower of all things political and loved listening to dozens of audiobooks and podcasts each month. He was fondly referred to as ‘Walking Google’ by his family.  He enjoyed a good conversation or debate on any number of topics.  He was often sought out by friends, family and former business associates to lend his vast experience to whatever issue was at hand. His keen intellect and sharp wit will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a skilled, principle-driven individual in all he did and was deeply committed to people and causes he cared for.

 

Stephen will be greatly missed as a loving spouse and father. His loss will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him. Rest in Peace, gentle giant.

 

The family will receive friends at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville) on Wednesday, February 22, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

 

Funeral to be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 78 Clifton Road, Toronto, on Thursday, February 23, 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow in the church hall.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Covenant House Toronto in Stephen’s memory are welcomed. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

 

 

 

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