Wilfred “Bruce” Doidge passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, at the age of 89, with family by his side.
He will be dearly missed by Anne, his beloved wife of 64 years; by his daughter Karen (Sean) and son Eric (Melanie); and by his grandchildren Rachael, Aaron, Connor, Sydney, and Olivia. He will be fondly remembered by his sister Elizabeth “Libby” Imrie, along with her children and grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart.
Bruce grew up in Leaside, where he played every sport available—baseball, football, golf, and lacrosse—but hockey was always his true passion, which he continued to play well into his 70s, every year waiting and hoping to get his call from the Leafs.
He attended the University of Toronto (Victoria College) and Teachers’ College before embarking on a 30-year teaching career at Central Commerce Collegiate in Toronto, retiring as Head of Business. Bruce loved teaching and cared deeply for his students.
In retirement, Bruce valued time with his family and in nature. He was always quick to offer a drive—to Northern Ontario to spend time with Eric and his family, or around the city helping with drives to hockey, dance, horseback riding, or the airport. Although reluctant at first, with Anne’s encouragement he came to enjoy road trips down east and to Florida, cruises with family and friends, and even European travel. He relished his time at the hunt camp, writing and re-writing lists to organize the annual visits. But his favourite place was always the cottage, with family gathered and a dog at his side (Star, Echo, Ava or Charley). He was happiest there, puttering away at the endless projects the cottage always seemed to have on offer.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Matthew Cheung at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre as well as Dr. Amy Nolen and the team at Sunnybrook’s Palliative Care unit for their compassion and care.
Visitation will take place at Mount Pleasant Visitation Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, on Friday, October 10th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. There will be no formal funeral service.
If desired, and in lieu of flowers, donations in Bruce’s memory may be made to the Sunnybrook Foundation.
Funeral Details
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Visitation
Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Centres
375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON, CANADA, M4T 2V8
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Friday, 10 Oct 2025 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Info: Please enter through the East Gate Entrance off of Mount Pleasant Road. Then follow the signs to the Funeral Centre.