In memory of
William Lancelot Fowler
May 24, 1941 - April 21, 2026
Surrounded by family with guitars and voices singing, Lancelot William Fowler passed away as the sun began to set on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Born to Sadie (nee Mary) Nethery and Hector Fowler, twin brother of (Mary) Linda Morton, predeceased by his older brother Jimmy and sisters Eleanor Collict and Anne Felton. Father of James (1961-1982), Robin (Ira) and Jason (Melanie), grandfather to Lily, Cole and Kyra. Married to Eila Fowler 1960-1983, with whom he shared a friendship thereafter, and celebrated their children's and grandchildren’s successes and many holidays over the years. Uncle to Melissa (Olivia), Robbie (Wendy, Evan and Grace) and Ken.
Deepest thanks to his partner, Kit-Yee Hui, for her compassionate and generous care of our father these past many years.
Lancelot was a celebrated teacher and vice-principal/principal with the Toronto District School Board. On behalf of our dad, we thank his many dear friends and former students for their love and support. As a former student shared, "I don't know if all teachers hear from their students decades later. His gifts were remarkable - an ability to create beauty in music and to inspire and connect with young people."
He was also a self-taught guitarist and songwriter, guitar teacher, and a lover of nature, books and poetry. At 60 years of age, he built himself a cabin in the woods with hand tools, carrying everything into the woods on his back.
In his later years, he became a medal-winning runner and daily early morning walker.
He loved to say, "Punch it in!” (to Google) whenever a question came up, especially when the query was whether he had outlived someone.
His friends and family know he enjoyed a lager and shoes that came in widths. As a teacher, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, he had a lifelong impact on so many, teaching people to be themselves, to read, and to question the world.
Heartfelt thanks to the palliative care team at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital, who provided caring and expert ministrations to Lance over the past 12 weeks, and to the oncology and palliative teams at North York General Hospital for the last 8 years.
A memorial service will be held at Manor Road United Church sometime in June; exact date TBA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Terry Fox Run Foundation, North York General Hospital Foundation, and Community Music Schools of Toronto.