We are sad to announce the passing of Howard J. Bateman on March 4, 2025. Howard passed peacefully at home, with his wife and two of his daughters by his side.

He is survived by his wife Anna, and their daughters, Tulla and Anthia, grandson Braydon, and daughter Jayna, from his first marriage.

Howard’s professional career began in 1961, when, at age 23 he opened The Inquisition Coffee House in Vancouver. The venue showcased jazz and folk performers, including Peter, Paul and Mary and Miles Davis, as well as poetry readings – always with Howie at the mic. Howie was also a promoter for other venues, bringing acts like Bob Dylan to the Queen Elizabeth Playhouse. His passion for music remained with him for his entire life.

In the late 60s, Howie branched out into live theatre and television. After working for publisher Don Cromie at Vancouver Life, he sent Howie and wife Anna to Toronto to found Toronto Life magazine. Next came theatre productions of Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris and Spring Thaw. He then went on to be a producer and writer for CBC’s Sunday Morning and the CTV sitcom The Trouble with Tracy.

In the early 70s, Howie changed careers once again, moving into the world of food and confectionery with ITWAL and Nielson/Cadbury as a strategic marketer. The Bateman house became a favourite after-school hangout where friends received full containers of Haagen Dazs ice cream. Halloween was always a madhouse as kids lined up to choose their full-size chocolate bar - “Market research” was Howie’s excuse for these generous offerings.

But Howie’s passion for the theatre never left him, and he produced revivals of Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris at the Elgin Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto in 1999 and Off-Broadway in New York in 2005. He served on the Board of Directors of Canadian Stage for many years, helping launch the 95 by ’95, a campaign aimed at achieving 95% patron subscriptions by 1995. A goal they achieved!

Howard was a dedicated husband and father. He eagerly shared his love and knowledge of music and made salad-junkies out of everyone by making the best dressing in the world.

An avid tennis player and golfer, Howard was active in both sports his whole life. He even chose to marshal at a Toronto golf club in his retirement so he could play as often as possible.

Howard lived a full and rich life and left a mark on everyone he met. For those who knew him, we will remember the laughter and fun he brought into our lives. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.

A private cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Please visit the Photos page (see above menu on the right) for additional images of Howard’s life.

Please consider a donation in Howard’s memory to the charity of your choice.