Donald Murray McLeod – 3 July 1930 – 24 August 2020
On Monday August 24, 2020 Murray passed away peacefully with Ingeborg at his side. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Ingeborg, daughter Ingrid and son-in-law Michael, son Kevin and daughter-in law-Karen, grandchildren, Kenneth (Laura), Bridget (Nick), Laura (Reg) and Hailey (Jonathan) and great grandchildren Nora and Taya.
On 3 July 1930, a true craftsman was born in Toronto. Murray spent his early days honing his technical skills in diesel mechanics and welding on the oilfields of Western Canada. Upon his return to Toronto in 1951 he joined Fairbanks Morse Company where he met and later married Ingeborg in May 1953. Together they relocated to Richmond Hill and started an amazing life. Employing his expert technical skills, Murray worked for 3M and Sheldon Engineering in their industrial sales divisions. He also became extremely active in the community and local chamber of commerce. Ultimately, he became the President of the local Jaycees in Richmond Hill – leading them to be recognized as the best Jaycee Chapter in the world in 1959/60.
In the 1960’s he developed a passion for clocks and in 1970 left the corporate world to begin his own business in the repair and restoration of antique clocks. He passed all 40 exams with honours under the British Horological Society and became highly sought after for challenging work. He worked on clocks for the ROM, the Science Museum, Ontario Art Gallery and many heritage homes. His skills were also used for clock towers, church tower clocks and firehall clocks. His clients were spread across the world. Using his leadership skills, he was instrumental in building a successful Ontario Chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors where he became a Fellow in 1980.
In 1990, due to failing eyesight, he had to give up clock work and turned his attention to woodturning. His craftsmanship skills were once again highlighted with his many award-winning designs and his invention of many unique tools and lathes which he was proud to share with other enthusiasts.
Throughout his life he was an extremely proud father, adoring grandfather and great grandfather. He was generous, loving and always had a kind word of encouragement. He relished the times all the family could gather. The grandchildren loved to hear of Grandpa’s adventures – from his poker playing days, installing an elevator in the house to his latest inventions. A visit with Grandpa and a tour of his workshop was always a fantastic journey filled with joy and laughter.
The family want to thank the Palliative Care Unit at Mackenzie Health for the extraordinary care given to Murray. In lieu of flowers donations to the Toronto Humane Society would be appreciated.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Murray McLeod Monday August 24th 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Richmond-Hill, Province: Ontario