David Anthony Balind

DAVID ANTHONY BALIND

1954 - 2026

It is with sad hearts that the family of David Anthony Balind announces his peaceful passing on June 10th, 2026, in his 72nd year, at West Park LTC home, where he received compassionate care, following a lengthy journey with Alzheimer's disease.

David will be missed and forever loved by his wife Genevieve, daughter Kathryn (Paul), granddaughter Anouk, son Gregory, siblings Sandra (Victor), Richard (Karen), Karen (André), and Lisa (Richard), and siblings-in-law Krystina (Robert) and Casey (Gina), and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

An altruistic soul, David harmoniously balanced an unwavering commitment to his family with his distinguished professional career. As a husband, he took great joy in surprising Genevieve with thoughtful gifts. As a father, he was a pillar of support: he was the patient teacher who guided his children through their first bike rides and skating lessons, and the dedicated parent who never missed a practice or recital. Whether waking at dawn to prepare his signature chocolate chip pancakes before Gregory’s hockey games or proudly attending every one of Kathryn’s dance performances, his presence was a constant source of encouragement.

David’s story began in the rural hamlet of Paquette Corners within the Essex municipality of southern Ontario. Born to Frank and Audrey Balind, he was the second of five children, raised with values that reflected a unique blend of country roots and cosmopolitan aspirations.

His youth was defined by a spirited nature and an early passion for hockey; he was known to hitchhike to local arenas, goalie equipment in hand, driven by a love for the game. Alongside his brother Rick, David’s mischievous wit often found an outlet in harmless pranks that brought endless laughter, establishing the playful character that would define him throughout his life.

After receiving his Architectural Technology Diploma from St Clair College in Windsor, David attended the University of Manitoba, where in 1978, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, followed by a Master of Architecture in 1982. He was proud to receive his Certificate of Practice from the Ontario Association of Architects in 1989.

David began his professional career in Toronto. After graduation he honed his skills working at Bernard Rasch Architect, then established Balind + Boaretti Architects in 1991 before creating his own practice Balind Architect in 1999. He was fortunate to blend his architecture with his love of nature by designing animal habitats and outdoor spaces, most notably at the Toronto Zoo. His unique perspectives helped create many vibrant outdoor habitats which included the African Rainforest Pavilion south exhibits refurbishment, the Great Barrier Reef exhibits, the Australasia Pavilion (Komodo Dragons and Koala exhibits), the Indo Malaya Zone and the Giant Panda exhibit and breeding facility. Beyond the Zoo, he took immense pride in urban projects like the Planet Traveller Hostel on College Street, particularly its rooftop patio design that mirrored his own simple pleasure of enjoying a panoramic view along with a cold beer.

David was defined by a sharp wit and an eccentric, colorful wardrobe that reflected his vibrant spirit. Whether through his custom-designed Christmas cards or the bright yellow running shoes he daringly paired with a tuxedo on his wedding day, he brought humor and light to every social gathering. His family and friends will forever treasure his generosity, his resilience, his humble nature, and the tenacity with which he approached life. His greatest enduring legacy remains the deep love he shared with those around him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in David’s name to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada: www.alzheimer.ca

A Memorial Service will be held in the Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, 230 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto M4V 1R5 on Saturday, June 27th at 1:00 pm.