Obituary of Richard Toner

Toner, Richard “Dick” Alphonse Richard “Dick” Alphonse Toner, husband of Barbara (White) Toner, died peacefully on Friday, April 13, 2012 at the York Care Centre, after a lengthy illness, with the blessings of his Lord and with his family around him. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Dick was an engineer, an executive, a community volunteer and mentor, but at all times a “prayer warrior.” Born on May 19, 1923 in Connors, N.B., he was the son of the late Herman and Kathryn (Tobin) Toner. Dick attended St. Francis Xavier University, N.S., where he excelled both academically and athletically. With his quickness and courage, he was a star hockey player and mainstay of the team’s famous “peanut line.” He completed his Engineering degree and started work in Chatham, N.B. with NB Power. Dick rose to become a Senior Vice-President of the organization. His unflinching integrity, professionalism, leadership and concern for his staff and colleagues were legendary. He used his skills and influence to build up those around him, serving as a mentor and coach. Throughout his life, until illness incapacitated him, Dick tirelessly helped his extended family and those in his community. He was past president of the parish council at Our Lady of Fatima, and received the Bishop Dollard Medal of Merit for his outstanding contributions to church and parish. Once retired, he certified with the Glasser Institute as a Reality Therapist and used his experience to offer life-coaching and advice. Even at times of great personal hardship and ill health, he remained positive and faith-filled. In addition to his wife, Dick is survived by his children, Richard Toner (Mura) of Fredericton, N.B., Neil Toner (Martine) of Geary, N.B., Kathryn Burns (Terry) of Fredericton, N.B., Judy Yuen (Dan - deceased) of Orleans, ON., William Toner (Martha) of Grand Bay, N.B. and Ann Bentley (Adam) of Back Bay, N.B.; twelve grandchildren, Kayte Toner (James), Michael Toner, Alicia Toner, Sarah Toner, David Toner, Colleen Burns, Erin Pilley (Matt), Trina Yuen, Meghan Yuen, Lindsay Yuen, Eric Bentley and Lauren Bentley; and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Eleanor (McKenna) Toner, infant grandson, Timothy Toner, and brother, Vance Toner. Visitation will take place at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive on Sunday, April 15, 2012 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held from Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church on Monday, April 16, 2012 at 11 am with Father Aaron Knox as celebrant and Father Mike LeBlanc as homilist. Pallbearers are Dan, Tom, Paul, Terry and Mike Toner and Terry Burns. Honourary Pallbearers are Mike McCarthy, Art O’Connor, Jack Kerr and Walter Brown. Interment will be in St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com.