Obituary of Arthur David McColl

Arthur David McColl
November 5, 1931 – November 21, 2022
It is with heavy hearts the McColl family announces the passing of Art in his 92 nd year at The Village at Humber Heights in Etobicoke. Art was predeceased by his mother Grace, his father Arthur David, Sister Marie, Nephew Ted (Wendy), Nieces Jane (Doug), Lynne (Oliver) Sue (Andy) and his beloved wife of almost 70 years Kay, just 4 months ago. Arthur leaves behind his two sons Arthur (Judy) and Randy (Tina). Also left to mourn are grandchildren Terry, Jennifer, Chris (Joe), Kari, Jenn (Karl), Brandon (Anette), Kim (Matt) and Laura (Tim), who all held a very special place in his heart. Art was a proud Great-Grandfather to Lincoln, Liam, Hailey, Cadence, Jaxon, Nicholas, Curtis, Andrew, and Lochlan. In addition Art was a caring Uncle to Debra (Fred), Kim (Fraser), Bonnie (Bill), Brenda (Reg), Sharon (Dave), Gwen (John), Vaughn, Elexis (Rob), Korean (Douglas), Ricky (Susan), Sue, Jim, Ross, Paul, Pat (Wayne), Dianna (Scott) and Judy (Pete).

Coming from modest beginnings on St. Patrick Square in Toronto, Art was a truck driver for more than 35 years. He and Kay managed to purchase both a house and a cottage property in their lifetimes. Art was a generous soul who proved hard work and determination could rise you up from your circumstances. He passed along his strong work ethic to his boys. An outdoorsman, a “man’s man” and a family man all described Art. He swam, fished, hunted, was a “skin” diving instructor, a gardener, a devoted leafs fan, a beer drinker, an avid euchre player and a wonderful dancer. When the company he worked for closed their doors, Art retired at 58. It was at that point that he joined a gym. He continued to go every day until after the age of 80. It’s believed he attended every day so as he could use their shower and towels. Art was a character larger than life. He liked to tease people and had nicknames for friends and family. He routinely used sayings that he became associated with: “Fake It Till You Make It”, “Mention My Name and You’ll Get a Good Seat”, “Many Hands Make Light Work”. This last saying was almost his motto, as he could always be counted on to show up and pitch in wherever needed. Art demonstrated his sense of humour by creating his own language. “Sniff Gillies” were flowers, “The Rickshaw” was his van and “Love Juice” was gasoline, just to name a few examples.

The family takes comfort in the fact Art and Kay are together once again. Cremation has taken place.

“Tell the kids I love them”.