In memory of
William Vaughn Leffler
June 9, 1935 - August 6, 2025
William Vaughn Leffler, 90, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Born on June 9, 1935, in Marion, Ohio, United States, William lived a vibrant and accomplished life that spanned continents and touched countless lives.
After graduating from high school in Ohio, William embarked on a career with the U.S. government that took him overseas to France and eventually to Italy. It was during his time in Italy that he met the love of his life, Paolo Cini. Their bond would become the foundation of a remarkable partnership that lasted over six decades.
In the 1970s, William and Paolo relocated from Italy to Montreal before settling in Toronto. There, William began a new chapter at Toronto General Hospital. Through dedication and hard work, he rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Ambulatory Services.
William was known not only for his professional achievements but also for his rich personal passions. A flamboyant individual and true gentleman, he brought charisma and kindness into every room he entered. He was an avid gardener who found joy in nurturing beauty from the earth. In the kitchen, he was an exemplary cook inspired by his admiration for Julia Childs. His culinary talents were matched only by his love of travel. His devotion to Paolo was unwavering; together they shared countless adventures and built a life rich in love and companionship.
A devoted family historian, William took great care in preserving stories and connections across generations. His warmth extended beyond borders—he had a gift for turning acquaintances into lifelong friends.
William is survived by his beloved partner of 62 years, Paolo Cini; brother-in-law Earl McWherter; nephews Keith (Dorreen) McWherter and Scott McWherter; niece Karie McWherter (Garth Bowen); great/great-great nieces/nephew and cousins in the United States. He was preceded in death by his parents Widge and Golda Leffler and his sister Koral K (Leffler) McWherter (Earl).
A celebration of William’s life will be held at a later date among family and friends who cherished him deeply.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who were touched by his extraordinary spirit.
After graduating from high school in Ohio, William embarked on a career with the U.S. government that took him overseas to France and eventually to Italy. It was during his time in Italy that he met the love of his life, Paolo Cini. Their bond would become the foundation of a remarkable partnership that lasted over six decades.
In the 1970s, William and Paolo relocated from Italy to Montreal before settling in Toronto. There, William began a new chapter at Toronto General Hospital. Through dedication and hard work, he rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Ambulatory Services.
William was known not only for his professional achievements but also for his rich personal passions. A flamboyant individual and true gentleman, he brought charisma and kindness into every room he entered. He was an avid gardener who found joy in nurturing beauty from the earth. In the kitchen, he was an exemplary cook inspired by his admiration for Julia Childs. His culinary talents were matched only by his love of travel. His devotion to Paolo was unwavering; together they shared countless adventures and built a life rich in love and companionship.
A devoted family historian, William took great care in preserving stories and connections across generations. His warmth extended beyond borders—he had a gift for turning acquaintances into lifelong friends.
William is survived by his beloved partner of 62 years, Paolo Cini; brother-in-law Earl McWherter; nephews Keith (Dorreen) McWherter and Scott McWherter; niece Karie McWherter (Garth Bowen); great/great-great nieces/nephew and cousins in the United States. He was preceded in death by his parents Widge and Golda Leffler and his sister Koral K (Leffler) McWherter (Earl).
A celebration of William’s life will be held at a later date among family and friends who cherished him deeply.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who were touched by his extraordinary spirit.