William “Steve” Stearns Vaughan
On September 12, 2020, while still fighting with every ounce of energy that he could muster, Steve left this earth on his own terms with his loving wife, Jayne (née Stayner) by his side. Born in Fredericton, NB on November 26, 1937, he was the son of the late William “Bill” and Verna (Rogers) Vaughan.
Steve left an indelible mark on this earth and will be sadly missed. In addition to his wife, Jayne, Steve was devoted father to Derek (Cheryl) of Tillsonburg, Chris (Susie Hendrie) of Toronto and stepfather to David Reed (Shelagh Meek) of Toronto. Caring grandfather to Rebecca, Stephanie, Graham, Miles, Emmanuelle, Charlotte, Philip, Talbot Henry, Carter Reed and Stella Reed. Supportive brother to his surviving sisters, Alexa “Pex” Legris and Kathleen “Kathi” Zwicker. Survived by first cousins, Ron Vaughan, Brenda Vaughan, Sally Allanach, Nancy Rogers, Peter Rogers and Janet Newey. Steve was predeceased by his parents, his son, Nelson, his siblings, Sheila, Richard, Rodney and Kenneth and first cousins Carl Vaughan, Donna Matchett, Sandra Vaughan, Peter Vaughan, Nelly Purdy, Molly Ashworth, and Noreen Chorney.
Steve was born and raised in Fredericton, NB where he obtained a B.S. in geology from U.N.B., followed by a masters in geology from McGill, and a law degree from U.N.B.. In 1965, Steve moved his growing family to Toronto where he lived most of his life and built a very specialized legal career. He worked the majority of his life at the law firm of Aird & Berlis LLP. He later joined McMillan Binch LLP, followed by Heenan Blaikie LLP lastly joining the Toronto office of Dorsey & Whitney LLP. Steve eventually moved from Toronto to settle at “the farm” in Singhampton, ON. He never officially retired and continued to practice law as so many of his clients, many of whom were close personal friends, would to seek his legal counsel throughout the remainder of his life.
Steve’s unique view of the world sculpted by his primary education in geology guided him to become a leading world expert in mining law. As adviser on mineral policy, mineral strategy, mining taxation, mine finance and nuclear issues to both industry and governments in more than 65 countries he was accepted by world leaders, colleagues and local indigenous peoples as an honest, knowledgeable, advocate for respectfully bringing resources or “new wealth” into the world. Steve published numerous articles and received many individual recognitions. Of note, in 2002, Steve was a recipient of PDAC’s Distinguished Service Award, in 2014, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws from U.N.B. and in 2017, he received what he considered his highest honour, being inducted into the Mining Hall of Fame.
Steve was never one to just lie around. Being a natural athlete, he had a passion for most sports and played both varsity basketball and football. Steve learned to ski at the age of 40 and later became a member of Devil’s Glen ski club. Steve learned to scuba dive at the age of 65 and traveled the world exploring geology under the seas. Steve’s passion was fly fishing at the “Bill Vaughan” family camp on the Miramachi River, his favourite place to be
Steve believed in giving back to society which guided his philanthropy. Steve would not hesitate to donate time, money, and or to get in and roll up his sleeves to do what needed to be done and was especially known for mentoring many colleagues.
In light of COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no visitation offered. There will be a private, by invitation only, service held on Sunday, October 11, 2020. For those who wish, memorial tributes may be made to the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Carruthers and Davidson Funeral Home – Stayner Chapel, 7313 Highway 26.
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Monday September 14th 2020
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Steve Vaughan Monday September 14th 2020..
Décès pour la Ville:Stayner, Province: Ontario