Desmond Leroy Persaud, 83, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, July 23, 2022, surrounded by family. Desmond is survived by his loving wife, Jean Agnes (nee Worrell) Persaud, and their devoted son, Orin Joseph Persaud.

Desmond was born and raised in Georgetown, Guyana, on September 2, 1938, to Olga Evelyn (nee Balgobin) Persaud and Joseph Ivan Persaud. He loved all his many siblings. He was predeceased by Chandra (formerly Patricia), Juliet, Clement. He is survived by his youngest sibling, Phillip.

When Desmond first saw Jean working at a hospital, it was love at first sight. He used to ask his doctor and nurse friends about Jean, and even bribed the hospital staff to find out her schedule. He used to surprise Jean by paying for her favourite meal before she got to a restaurant. With his persistent pursuit and chivalrous charm, Jean fell in love with Desmond, and the two got married on December 5, 1964.

Desmond was a hardworking hydraulic mechanic, and it was this skill set that brought him and Jean to Canada in February of 1966. He was responsible for building hydraulic lifts for many companies' vehicles including those used by the Canadian Army and Ontario Hydro.

On April 10, 1972, Jean and Desmond welcomed their only child, Orin Joseph Persaud, to the world. Orin would argue that Susie, their dog, was his father’s second, possibly even favourite child. Orin and Jean both recount Desmond being a fun, energetic father and fierce protector. Orin was inspired by his own father’s love and devotion for him, when he became Desmond’s Caregiver and advocate.

Desmond was a deep lover of all things music and parties. He could often be heard whistling a tune. He loved ballroom dancing, playing the piano and singing. He once sung "Danny Boy" live on the radio. His family recalls a time he left the hospital, IV in arm, to get to a party.

Desmond will be remembered for many things, but his gregarious, larger-than-life personality and cool demeanor stood out to all. He loved motorcycles, bright colours, cooking and open discussions about a variety of topics. It was his impassioned speech about Mahatma Gandhi’s contributions to Indian Independence that earned him the nickname “Gandhi”, among his circle of friends.

Desmond will be deeply missed by his family and friends throughout the world.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Sunnybrook Hospital at https://donate.sunnybrook.ca/ to thank the staff for their exceptionally attentive care of Desmond.