Raymond Brackstone R.I.P. 1939-2016

Written by  //  December 1, 2016  //  Absent Friends  //  1 Comment

BRACKSTONE, Raymond H.

Passed into the hands of God peacefully on the twenty-first of November. His cancer was diagnosed late in August, and was followed by two fractured hips. All this was borne with great courage and dignity, inspiring those around him.

Born in Bermuda, on March 31, 1939, he arrived during the frigid cold of an Ottawa winter for his student placement as a CA in 1960. Returning to Canada the following year, he made his home in Montreal, where he embarked on his career in finance.

Raymond was the ultimate people person. Intelligent, humourous, engaging, stylish, and with a formidable memory.

He was well read and always ready for a good debate. Music and history were his passion. Throughout his career, he mentored and encouraged many young people from different walks of life.

Predeceased by eldest son Kirby in 2012. Forever beloved and missed by his wife of almost 50 years, Ellen, son Jordan, daughter-in-law Isabelle Ramsay Brackstone, grandchildren Marie Sophie, Gabrielle and William of Bermuda. Loving GP to Yashna, Yamini, Meghna and their mother Jaishri Patel of Toronto. He will also be missed by Jordan’s partner Haseen Bano and countless friends around the world. Service at Christ Church Deer Park (Yonge at Heath Street ) on Thursday, December 1st at 2 p.m.

Please consider a donation in Raymond’s name to: Kensington Hospice, 38 Major Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2L1. Kensington Hospice is a safe and loving haven for those who are dying and their families who have joined them on the journey.

Globe & Mail

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One Comment on "Raymond Brackstone R.I.P. 1939-2016"

  1. Diana Thebaud Nicholson September 25, 2016 at 5:14 pm ·

    2016-09-24
    Dear Raymond and Ellen,
    Thank you, Raymond, for calling today.
    David and I are, of course, shocked and saddened by your news, but somewhat comforted by Raymond’s report of the excellent care you are receiving and, especially, the treatment that will arrest the development and spread of the cancer.
    As you can imagine, all sorts of images flashed through my mind of the many moments we have shared, starting with our first encounter and heated discussion in the Ritz bar! Your wedding reception the day Expo opened, the many happy runs between our homes on Northcliffe, ‘forced labour’ weekends at the Williams’ home in Georgeville, Kirby’s christening (the one and only time I have ever been in Hamilton!), flying visits to you in Toronto, and from you to Montreal, and then my triumphant delivery of Isabelle to you … We have shared lots of happy times, and some very sad ones, as all good friends do.
    I cannot find words, however, for this development, except to tell you that we love you both and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers every day.
    Please keep us informed, and let us know if there is anything we can do for either of you. We love you very dearly.
    Diana & David

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