Firefighter Arthur V. Webster – May 1925 – Apr 2025
WEBSTER, ARTHUR VICTOR, passed peacefully on Easter Sunday at Sunnybrook Hospital at the age of 99. Born and raised in the Beaches neighbourhood of Toronto, Arthur enlisted with the Canadian Army to join his two older brothers engaged in WW2 combat. Being underage, Arthur was sent to Camp Borden, and from there to Camp Dundern, Saskatchewan, for reconnaissance training. There he met his future wife at a dance in Saskatoon, and following a brief courtship, they married. Arthur was assigned to the South Alberta Regiment and shipped overseas in August 1944. His regiment saw action in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Following the war and reunited with his wife, Mary, the couple settled in the city’s west end. Within two years a son and daughter arrived, and Arthur started his career with the Toronto Fire Department. His favourite sport was baseball, whether as a coach of Little League softball teams, or as a fan of the Brooklyn/L.A. Dodgers. He enjoyed fishing, golfing, tennis, and playing bridge into his late eighties. Arthur and Mary travelled extensively. Fond of cruises, they explored Europe and South America. A lengthy tour of the Hawaiian Islands to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary was their most cherished adventure.
Arthur visited his Dutch friends at regular intervals to participate in services commemorating the Liberation of the Netherlands. Predeceased by his loving wife, Mary of 78 years, Arthur is survived by his son Art, Whitehorse; daughter Mary, Toronto; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.
Arthur was a Long-Standing Member of the Toronto Firefighters War Veterans Association. In accordance with his wishes, Arthur was cremated, and a private family gathering to intern his ashes at St. James Cemetery will take place in late May.
Sincerest Condolences from all our Retiree Groups go out to the Family and Friends.
In Solidarity, Retired Toronto Fire Fighters Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888