My strongest memories of Mr. Carson were of when he drove Andrea and I to Rhythmic Gymnastics- the type of gymnastics with the colourful ribbons- in his wood-paneled Volvo. Andrea and I were very little, maybe six years old. He was so cool, he even let us sit in the hatchback with no seat-belts! Andrea and I had fun making faces at the people in the car behind us. Those were the seventies. My next strongest memory is of playing in the Florentine warehouse with Andrea while Mr. Carson went about working or doing whatever he had to do. We were allowed to jump from one level into a huge box of Styrofoam packing materials. Another memory I have is being at Andrea's farm, with Mr. Carson somewhere close by no doubt, while we jumped from a platform in the barn into a huge pile of hay, below. As I write this all down, there is a definite pattern emerging - I always felt, and still feel, very respectful of Mr. Carson. I always wanted to call him Mr. Carson, even when Andrea told me it wasn't necessary. However, under that cool exterior was a warm and fun guy, who loved seeing us have fun, and trusted us enough to know we'd be OK. My last memory of Mr. Carson was giving him a peck on the cheek goodbye as Mrs. Carson and I finished up our afternoon tea visit. Thank you, Mr. Carson, for being so kind and for all the fun memories. My deepest condolences to Eleanor, Andrea and to all the extended family. I will miss him.
Most Sincerely,
Nicole Stoffman
Mr. Carson was the kindest, most gentle man we ever knew. What a privilege, to call him a friend.
Thinking fondly of the ever- gracious Uncle Richard and sending much love to Auntie Eleanore and Andrea. You have been in our thoughts and prayers.
The best way I can describe Richard is that he was like a father to me. He was more than a friend and associate. I know he will be with the angels and Skip and I will dearly miss him.
Richard was one of a rare breed that my late father used to call, as a term of his highest praise, "a scholar and a gentleman." I have the fondest memories of Richard so kindly giving me a summer job, when I was a green teenager, at The Florentine Shop on Bloor, a lovely learning experience for me, being surrounded by such beautiful things. My sincere condolences go to Eleanore and Andrea.