Timothy Patrick Caley

It is with the deepest sadness that we share that Tim Caley died suddenly on Sunday, January 25 th , at the age of 76.

Tim was a deeply beloved partner, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his devoted partner Dorothy Watson, his cherished daughter Jennifer Hay, and husband Ken, his granddaughters Jillian & Evelyn, and the mother of his daughter Gerry Sinclair. He was predeceased by his parents, Colonel R. G. Caley - 1953 and Gertrude (née English) - 1998, brother Michael Caley (Pat) - 2021 and valued friend/business partner Glenn Myers (Valerie) – 2022.

Tim was born in Toronto and grew up in Leaside, where he learned the value of hard work and community early in life. As a teenager, he worked part-time after school in the sample room of a chemical company and spent summers in the plant, work he often said was tedious enough to keep him in school. With money tight, he also cut grass, and shoveled snow to earn extra income. He coached baseball, played hockey on the local outdoor rink, and was actively involved at St. Cuthbert’s Church as a server and youth group member. He also enjoyed attending school and church dances, simple moments that reflected the close-knit community of his youth. He later went on to graduate from York University, specializing in Labour Relations. From there Tim rose through management ranks quickly from his first days at Union Carbide, GEAC, Prime Computer, British Telecom, and Olivetti before launching an executive recruitment career, eventually establishing his own firm and transitioning to general business consulting.

His favourite job carried the title “Daddy.” Tim cherished his time with Jenn, especially their annual trips to New York City to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree. He was instrumental in Jenn’s decision to attend McGill to study business, and during those years they spoke on the phone every day, a rhythm that reflected his steady presence and deep care. He was immensely proud of Jenn & Ken and, later, of his granddaughters Jillian and Evelyn, especially watching their strength and skill playing hockey. When Jenn became a parent, life grew busier and the calls became less frequent, but his pride and love never faded. Traditions meant everything to Tim, and he never missed an occasion - always making a point to mark milestones, even half- birthdays.

Tim was a loving and devoted partner to Dorothy Watson for the past 25 years, sharing a life rooted in love, companionship, curiosity, and simple pleasures. Together they travelled often, enjoying many memorable trips to Cuba, the French Riviera, Antigua and Mexico, where they embraced warm mornings, ocean views, and the joy of being side by side. Closer to home, they loved leisurely drives to watch the leaves change in the fall, always ending with lunch somewhere that offered a beautiful view. On summer mornings, they could often be found reading the paper together on the balcony, looking out over Lake Ontario, quiet moments that meant everything to them. Tim was a passionate sports fan and devoted news follower, and he was well known for enjoying a bit of friendly rivalry, often placing a good-natured NFL or NHL bet, always more for the conversation than the win.

Born with congenital heart disease, Tim had his first open heart surgery at age 14 at SickKids performed by the renowned pediatric cardiac surgeon, Dr. William Mustard. Our eternal gratitude goes out to the two other cardiac surgeons, Dr. Tyrone David and Dr. Stephanie Brister, each of whom brought him back from the brink. Additionally, to all the caring cardiologists: Dr. Keith, Dr. Morch, Dr. Gary Webb, Dr. Louise Harris, Dr. John Ross, and Dr. Sean Balmain.

Throughout it all, Tim quietly helped countless people with thoughtful guidance and steady advocacy. He was often the person others turned to for career advice or support during transitions - whether they were relatives of friends or friends of friends - and he never hesitated to go to bat for someone who needed it. He was equally generous in helping people navigate medical challenges, frequently connecting them to the right specialists through his extensive network.

We miss him more than words can express and feel his absence in every part of our lives. His love, kindness, sharp wit, sense of humour and steady presence will be carried with us always.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, February 15th from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at Donna Child Fine Arts, 365 Evans Avenue, Suite 101, Etobicoke. Guests are welcome to arrive and visit at any time. First Hour - Mingling and remembrance. Second Hour - A short, more formal reflection, with a few words shared and an open invitation for others to share memories if they wish. Following - Time to continue visiting and reminiscing together.

Donations in His Memory

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Timothy Patrick Caley would be appreciated by the family, supporting the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program, at UHN Foundation. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute  or call 416-603-5300.

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