BATTEN, Edward James October 19, 1937 – October 16, 2018 Peacefully on October 16, 2018, at Margaret Bahen Hospice in Newmarket, ON, after a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Loving and devoted husband to Ellen for 59 years, cherished father of Steve (Judy) and adored and proud grandfather of Lyndsay and Ryan. Fondly remembered by family and friends in the UK, Australia and Canada.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ed joined the Leaside Fire Department in 1958 and retired as District Chief of East York Fire Department after 38 years of service. Retirement meant spending lots of time with his family, gardening, reading and traveling with Ellen. Together they travelled to many places including the UK, Europe, New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific, South America and several times to Ellen’s homeland, Northern Ireland. Winter cruising to various destinations was a favourite.
Ed will be remembered for his love and expertise of gardening with much of his skill learned during his 38-year part-time tenure with Weall and Cullen. Ed enjoyed long walks with Ellen through the Oak Ridges Moraine, loved sports (especially hockey), big band and jazz music, bird watching and was an avid table tennis player at the Aurora Seniors Centre. Ed was dedicated and proud of his family especially his grandchildren. Forever the teacher, the nurturer, the fun loving “Papa” when spending time with them. He never missed an opportunity to watch them in a performance, play hockey, soccer or compete at a track meet.
Thanks to the wonderful staff and volunteers at the Margaret Bahen Hopice for their care and compassion.
Cremation has taken place and in keeping with Ed’s wishes there will be no funeral service. Family and friends are invited to attend a reception in Ed’s memory on Sunday, October 21st from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home, 524 Davis Drive, Newmarket, ON, 905-898-2100.
As an expression of sympathy, donations to Margaret Bahen Hospice would be appreciated. Online condolences may be placed at www.taylorfh.ca