Merrill KIRKNESS
January 9, 1934 – January 13, 2017
On January 13, 2017 we lost a giant among men, a prime example of a man and a gentleman in every sense of the word. Merrill Ralph Kirkness of Scarborough, born in Toronto, January 9, 1934, passed away after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Left to grieve his passing are his lifelong friend and wife of over 59 years, Elizabeth (Hulton), his sons Ray (Heather), Norm (Lorraine) and daughter Pauline Fleming (Mark). Seven adoring grandchildren: Scott (Sarah), Andy, Colleen, Tamara, Ian, Mikhayla and Haileigh; and his 1st great-granddaugher, Aurora Marianne. Brothers and sisters, Watt (Marilyn), Dawn (Harold) deceased, Warren (Jean), Lorae (Roion), Orland (Maureen), Thelma (Peter), Laverne (Adrienne); 13 nieces and 13 nephews, 39 great-nieces and great-nephews and growing. Merrill enjoyed both playing and coaching hockey, he even joined a Boy Scout troop, just so he could play hockey. He liked to play cards, golf, downhill skiing and skate regularly until August 2016 with the Don Montgomery Senior Skaters, play his guitar and his newest toy was a Ukulele. He worked magic with wood and could make cupboards grow out of the walls. Always a happy smile, often known as the “happy guy”. We will always miss you Merrill and treasure our memories with you! A Celebration of Life will be held at Wexford Heights United Church, 2102 Lawrence Avenue East, Scarborough, on Saturday, January 21, 2017. Visitation to begin at 11 a.m., Service to follow at 12 noon. Refreshments to follow the Service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Merrill’s name to the Out Of The Cold program through Dixon Hall Neighbourhood Services. Email at www.dixonhall.org, donations can be made online by clicking the “Donate Now” tab. Donations can also be mailed to 58 Sumach Street, Toronto, ON M5A 3J7 (416-863-0499).