In memory of
Raymond John Kilroy
October 2, 1942 - August 31, 2026
It is with deep sadness that the family of Raymond Kilroy announces his peaceful passing following a recent decline in health due to Alzheimer’s disease.
Raymond was the beloved husband of Minerva for almost 56 years. He was the loving father of Carmen Kilroy (Michael Kuske) and Olivia Kilroy (Michael Homburger), and cherished “Abuelo” to his grandchildren Maeve, Oscar, Evan, and Ella. He is survived by his siblings Peter, Mary (Miller), John, and Hilda (Hall), and will be fondly remembered by countless nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Son of John and Maisie Kilroy, born and raised on a farm in Athlone, Ireland, Ray was a studious young man whose hard work earned him a scholarship to a private boys’ boarding school (Gormanston). This period sparked his lifelong love of golf and brought him friendships that lasted a lifetime. He went on to attend University College Dublin, graduating with honours in Chemical Engineering. In August 1965 he set off for Canada, ready for a new chapter and new opportunities.
After working briefly in the field of chemical engineering in Kingston, Ray’s natural curiosity and passion for learning led him to pursue an MBA at the University of Western Ontario in London. He subsequently launched his career in the financial sector in Montreal. It was there that he met Minerva, the love of his life, who had immigrated to Canada from the Dominican Republic. They married in 1970, started their family, and moved to Toronto in 1974. Ray's fascination with the stock market drove him to attain his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. He went on to build a distinguished career as an investment analyst, known not only for his sharp mind but for the patience and dedication with which he mentored many young associates along the way.
Though from very different parts of the world, Ray and Minerva built a life filled with love and adventure. When he retired, he devoted more time to his role as a proud Rotarian and to traveling the world in earnest. Two countries drew him back almost every year, sometimes more than once: the Dominican Republic and Ireland.
From his first visit to the DR—and his first awful sunburn—Minerva’s large family became his own. Affectionately known as “Tio Ray”, he embraced the language and culture, including merengue dancing. He was adored for his warmth, kindness and fearless curiosity with which he explored every corner of the island.
In Ireland, he and Minerva spent wonderful times visiting loved ones and touring the scenic landscape. His deep affection for the country came to life at their annual St. Patrick’s Day party in Toronto, which reunited friends and family year after year.
Raymond lived a life rich in learning, friendship, and compassion. A true gentleman and devoted family man, he was known for his beautiful and extensive garden, his quiet kindness, his intellect, and, above all, his generosity.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to those who cared for him during his illness, especially Beth and Margie.
A Mass and celebration of Raymond’s life will be held on his birthday, October 2. Details of the celebration will be posted here as soon as they are available.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation to the Dr. Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery https://donate.sunnybrook.ca/brainresilience .
Raymond was the beloved husband of Minerva for almost 56 years. He was the loving father of Carmen Kilroy (Michael Kuske) and Olivia Kilroy (Michael Homburger), and cherished “Abuelo” to his grandchildren Maeve, Oscar, Evan, and Ella. He is survived by his siblings Peter, Mary (Miller), John, and Hilda (Hall), and will be fondly remembered by countless nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Son of John and Maisie Kilroy, born and raised on a farm in Athlone, Ireland, Ray was a studious young man whose hard work earned him a scholarship to a private boys’ boarding school (Gormanston). This period sparked his lifelong love of golf and brought him friendships that lasted a lifetime. He went on to attend University College Dublin, graduating with honours in Chemical Engineering. In August 1965 he set off for Canada, ready for a new chapter and new opportunities.
After working briefly in the field of chemical engineering in Kingston, Ray’s natural curiosity and passion for learning led him to pursue an MBA at the University of Western Ontario in London. He subsequently launched his career in the financial sector in Montreal. It was there that he met Minerva, the love of his life, who had immigrated to Canada from the Dominican Republic. They married in 1970, started their family, and moved to Toronto in 1974. Ray's fascination with the stock market drove him to attain his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. He went on to build a distinguished career as an investment analyst, known not only for his sharp mind but for the patience and dedication with which he mentored many young associates along the way.
Though from very different parts of the world, Ray and Minerva built a life filled with love and adventure. When he retired, he devoted more time to his role as a proud Rotarian and to traveling the world in earnest. Two countries drew him back almost every year, sometimes more than once: the Dominican Republic and Ireland.
From his first visit to the DR—and his first awful sunburn—Minerva’s large family became his own. Affectionately known as “Tio Ray”, he embraced the language and culture, including merengue dancing. He was adored for his warmth, kindness and fearless curiosity with which he explored every corner of the island.
In Ireland, he and Minerva spent wonderful times visiting loved ones and touring the scenic landscape. His deep affection for the country came to life at their annual St. Patrick’s Day party in Toronto, which reunited friends and family year after year.
Raymond lived a life rich in learning, friendship, and compassion. A true gentleman and devoted family man, he was known for his beautiful and extensive garden, his quiet kindness, his intellect, and, above all, his generosity.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to those who cared for him during his illness, especially Beth and Margie.
A Mass and celebration of Raymond’s life will be held on his birthday, October 2. Details of the celebration will be posted here as soon as they are available.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation to the Dr. Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery https://donate.sunnybrook.ca/brainresilience .