William Graham Dutton, Q.C.
July 10, 1935
January 10, 2019

It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of William Graham Dutton.

Beloved husband to Sheila (Westman) and loving father of Chris (Karen), Lynn (John Clarke) and Tim. Proud grandfather to Katie, Oliver, Emily, Owen and Jenny. Beloved brother to Liz (Milton) and late brother John. He will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

Graham was born in Chatham, Ontario to W.L Dutton and Aileen (Turner). He grew up in Chatham where many of his lifelong friendships began. He later attended St. Andrews College, which became an important part of his life.

While attending a St. Andrews dance he first met Sheila, who he would later marry on December 28th, 1959. This was followed by 59 years of joyful marriage.

Graham attended the University of Toronto, became president of Delta Upsilon and graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1960. He was called to the Ontario Bar in 1962.

As a litigator, he soon became a well-respected member of the bar with a long and rewarding career. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1976, and certified as a Specialist in Civil Litigation by L.S.U.C at the inception of that designation. Graham’s career legacy is distinguished with many landmark and high profile legal decisions.

He was a founding partner of Dutton Brock , which soon became one of Canada’s premier insurance litigation firms. Graham’s high commitment to the legal community saw him actively engaged through many associations:

Past President of the County of York Law Association
Director of the Advocate Society
Former council member of the Medico-Legal Society of Toronto
Former member of the management board of the Canadian Bar Insurance Associate
Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers

He also proudly served on school boards: Montcrest School and St. Andrews College

Graham’s compassion in helping others went beyond his legal career. He would not just offer advice but would take the time necessary to support and help others through their times of need.

Graham and Sheila were avid travellers. Their many adventures would take them across the world’s continents. A large collection of photo albums attest to these wonderful trips for his children and grandchildren. The numerous photos of a Graham and Sheila smiling with their friends showed how much they enjoyed their times together.

Graham was competitive both in the courts of law and in his in free time. He enjoyed many sports: golf, tennis and squash as well as skiing and sailing. He was an active member of the Badminton and Racquet Club, Rosedale Golf Club and the Erieau Yacht Club (Commodore 1979).

Erieau, nestled between Lake Erie and Rondeau Bay, held a special place in Graham’s heart. It is where Graham spent his summers from the time he was a toddler. It was where we saw the fun loving side of Graham. Many fond friend and family memories where formed there.

Later in life Graham and Sheila spent their winters in Naples, Florida. Amoung friends and family they enjoyed watching many sunsets over the Gulf.

Graham’s legal legacy is well documented but it is Graham, the true friend, the devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather that will he will be remembered.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 26th at Rosedale Golf Club from 1:00pm – 3:00pm.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice. Donations, condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.etouch.ca