It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Adair on Sept. 14th at Lakeridge Hospital Oshawa. He was 93 years young. Predeceased by his wife Shirley and brothers George & Donald. Survived by his three children, Lynn (George), Tracy (Paul), Robin (Shelley) and his grandkids Eric and Brittney.
Adair was born on July 7, 1930, in Toronto to Ann (Donaldson) and Adair who emigrated from Scotland in 1922. They lived on Manor Road and spending summer vacations at Brock’s Beach in Collingwood was the highlight of his childhood. So much so that it became a family tradition later when married and with kids.
In 1947 he went to Central Tech to study art where he learned from great teachers, including his mentor, Doris McCarthy. He worked at Planned Sales as an apprentice artist after graduation. As he earned his way up in sales and advertising, the first art director he called upon was A.J. Casson (Group of Seven).
It was during this time that he married Shirley on May 30, 1953, at Manor Road Church. In 1956 Adair joined the ad agency Cockfield Brown as a junior account executive. He also joined the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps. Two years later Adair was a commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and won a trophy for outstanding cadet of the year. Lynn (Kaczmarczyk), Tracy (Grisdale), and Robin came along in the following years.
Adair’s successful advertising career included working at several ad agencies including Maclaren, Art Associates, Foster Advertising, and Leo Burnett, where he worked on many prestigious accounts. He travelled for work to many parts of the world. Sometimes he was able to take Shirley along and they shared some wonderful times. He spent the last several years of his career as a partner/Ex. VP in Art & Design Studios (ADS) on Merton St.
The best times were the 35 years at the cottage on Kennisis Lake where family, friends, & neighbours created wonderful memories together.
Adair retired shortly after Shirley passed away in 1999. He took up part-time consulting, teaching, painting, drawing, and most of all travelling. He continued to curl and lawn bowl at the Richmond Hill clubs where he developed many friendships.
Adair was passionate about life, a devoted family man, and gained the respect of everyone whom he met throughout his lifetime. He was a gift, and he will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.
Rest in peace Adair, Dad, Grandpa, Uncle, Friend.
While a private service is planned, the family welcomes donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association or The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.