Sandra Perkin

Sandra Maria Perkin (née Simon)

October 24, 1958 – October 13, 2026

It is with sadness and much love that we announce the passing of Sandra Maria Perkin on October 13, 2026, just eleven days shy of her 68th birthday.

Sandra lived a life rich in friendship, family, meaningful connections, and simple pleasures. While she could be quiet in a crowded room, those who knew her well knew that she loved nothing more than a good conversation or an opportunity to share a story. Genuine, compassionate, and wonderfully honest, Sandra had a way of making those closest to her feel loved and remembered.

Born at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto on October 24, 1958, Sandra was adopted at the age of one by William and Paula Simon, who welcomed her into their family with tremendous love. In 1964, her younger sister Sue joined the family. Though they were not related by blood, they were sisters in every way that mattered, sharing a lifetime of experiences, laughter, and stories—many of which were happily told more than once.

Later in life, Sandra had the opportunity to connect with members of her birth family, including her half-brother, Berle, and his wife, Sandi. These connections added another meaningful chapter to Sandra's story and her understanding of her family history.

Sandra was proud of her Austrian heritage, a connection she celebrated throughout her life. She delighted in exploring her roots and reconnecting with memories through online communities devoted to Burgenland, Austria, and Willowdale in the 1970s. She particularly enjoyed visits to Club Loreley in Durham with her dear friend Dagmar, where schnitzel, strudel, and good company were always something to look forward to. And, of course, Sandra always appreciated a good slice of Black Forest cake.

Friendships were an important and enduring part of Sandra's life. As a young woman, she met Anne and Rob Halverson through a youth group, beginning a lifelong friendship that became a treasured part of her story. Rob, who predeceased Sandra, remained an important figure in the memories and friendships she held dear.

Sandra dedicated 30 years of service to Ontario's Ministry of Finance, a career of which she was very proud. Among her responsibilities were managing the telephone directory and switchboard, which brought its share of memorable and sometimes unusual calls. She approached these interactions with grace and professionalism. Toward the end of her career, she met Dagmar while working in the mailroom. What began as a workplace friendship grew into a cherished connection that extended well beyond their working years.

Sandra's life also reflected how relationships can grow and change while remaining rooted in care and respect. Although Sandra and her former husband, Iain Perkin, divorced nearly 20 years ago, Iain continued to be there for her when it mattered. Sandra also developed a genuine friendship with Iain's wife, Lyne Bergeron, a relationship that reflected the warmth of their extended family.

Above all, Sandra treasured her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother who demonstrated her affection through generosity, compassion, and the gift of her time. She loved connecting with her grandchildren, Lillian and Isaiah, and never missed an opportunity for a FaceTime call. Distance was no obstacle to staying connected with the people she loved.

Sandra is lovingly remembered by her mother, Paula Simon; her sister, Sue Simon; her daughter, Megan Goldstein, and son-in-law, Jordan; her son, Matthew Perkin; her beloved grandchildren, Lillian and Isaiah; and her former husband, Iain Perkin, and his wife, Lyne Bergeron. She was predeceased by her loving father, William Simon, on March 5, 2009.

Sandra leaves behind a legacy of compassion, responsibility, honesty, and unconditional love. She will be remembered for her storytelling, her cherished friendships, her generosity of spirit, and the colourful personality that made her uniquely Sandra.

Celebration of Life

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in celebration of Sandra's life on Sunday, December 20, 2026, at 2:00, in Toronto.

Please join us for an afternoon of shared stories, fond memories, laughter, and connection as we remember Sandra and the many ways she touched our lives.

For location details, directions, and to RSVP, please visit:

https://pp.events/sandracelebrationoflife

In Lieu of Flowers

For those wishing to honour Sandra's memory, the family kindly requests that donations be considered in lieu of flowers to either of the following organizations:

Alzheimer Society of Canada — Supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Canadian Cancer Society — Supporting cancer research, compassionate care, and services for people affected by cancer. Those wishing to support the Society's Wheels of Hope transportation program can select "Transportation to Help People Fighting Cancer" when making their donation.

Donations may be made in Sandra's memory as a meaningful way to continue her legacy of compassion and caring for others.

A life uniquely hers. A love that remains. A story we'll continue to tell.