ALAN JOSEPH TOFF

With great sadness we announce the death of Alan Joseph Toff, on April 25, 2023, in Toronto. Born in London (UK) on September 12, 1934, Alan grew up in England, where, as a child actor, his love of theatre was born. After completing his military service in Singapore, he immigrated to Canada in 1954 to join his sister Beryl. Despite her tragic death two years later, Alan made his home in Canada and was ’adopted’ into the Cooper and Nyman families. But family was only a part of the story with Alan; everywhere he went he made valued friends, lighting up their lives with his delightfully quick wit, kindness and love of beauty in all its forms.

Alan completed his B.A. at Trinity College, University of Toronto (6T4). He served as Undergraduate Secretary at Hart House for many years and in 1976 returned to England to study at The Courtauld Institute of Art. Subsequently, he joined the School of Continuing Studies, U of T, where he taught visual arts. For over 30 years, Alan influenced countless students, both in his classroom (his courses were favourites), and on his many art tours. The Alan Toff Annual Art Lecture was established in his honour. Alan very much loved people and people loved him in return. He leaves a great gap in all our lives.

A celebration of Alan’s life will be held at Hart House, U of T, June 28, 2023 from 2-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Alan’s memory to The Alan Toff Lecture Series at engage.utoronto.ca/alan-toff or to the AGO at www.ago.ca/ donate.