Obituary of Wilfrid Joseph Seward

SEWARD, Wilfrid Joseph

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wilfrid on Friday August 16, 2024 at the age of 77 at the St. Catharines Hospital. Loving husband of the late Donna Seward (2012). Proud father of Wilfrid (Kayla), Russell, Steven (Amanda) and Pete (Erin). Dear Papa and Grampa of Briana (Angelo), Willie (Chloe), Michael, Tommy, Noah, Mason, Curtis, Little Steven, Madison, Caleb, Katelyn, Jessica, Reese & Cecily, Mayze, and Hayden. He will be greatly missed by his siblings Rose Cameron, Joe Seward (Annette), Susan (Johnny Rose), Marg (Galen Nutbrown), Gail (Steve Watts), John Seward (Judy), Gary Seward (Debbie), Rose (Reg Francis), Cathy (Lionel Vielenuve). Predeceased by his siblings Margaret, Gerard and Gary.

Wilfrid was much more than just a man; he was a husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle. With dedication he raised his 4 boys. With honour he loved his family and stood by his wife. When asked what Wilfrid was most proud of, he would always say: my boys… my family. His family was his greatest joy, his motivation, and the source of his endless smiles and iconic sense of humour. Known for his open arms and readiness to lend a hand, Wilfred’s unconditional love and care were felt by everyone around him. He was a source of love and strength whose memory will always bring warmth and light to those he cared about. 

As proud of his boys as he was, he was even more proud of his 18 grandchildren. Unconditionally loving them individually yet equally, he had special bonds with each and everyone of them. The grandchildren agree Wilfrid and Marie were the best grandparents, always there for them, endless childhood memories, selfless care, and tough love (which everyone loved Wilfrid for). From daily visits, the holidays, barbeques, Pearson Park, day trips, sugary treats and shopping trips, Wilfrid never missed a chance to bring joy to their lives with his playful tendencies and kept them on their toes with his mischievous ways.

Wilfrid grew up in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia where he met the love of his life, Marie, at a local dance. They were connected instantly but kept it a secret leading everyone to think she was a nurse until one of his sisters caught them dating and realized Marie wasn’t a nurse but instead madly in love with Wilfrid. It soon became obvious that they were each others soul mate, marking the beginning of their inseparable and inspiring life together. After a couple years of being married, they left Nova Scotia and came to Ontario to plant roots and start a family. 

Wilfrid was extremely multitalented, having jobs in various trades. However, he was most proud of and always talked about his adventures in Yukon building houses or his time welding and redesigning machinery. He took pride in his work and would pass down his knowledge to his boys, teaching them the skills he knew along with his work ethic, resourcefulness and life lessons. His time teaching the boys the hands-on skills they still use to this day could be described as, you do it and I will watch and tell you what to do. Wilfrid believed in no better way to learn than by trial and error, making your own mistakes and then figuring out how to fix them. He was a very talented tradesman whose works will never be forgotten. 

Wilfrid’s legacy isn’t just in the skills he taught or the memories he made, but in the hearts of everyone who knew him. His love, humor, and endless generosity were the cornerstones of a family deeply touched by his presence. Even though he’s no longer with us, the lessons he shared, the laughter he brought, and the support he gave will continue to inspire and guide us. As we say goodbye to a truly remarkable man who gave so much of himself to those around him, we take comfort in knowing his spirit will live on through the stories we tell, the smiles he inspired, and the traditions we keep alive. Rest peacefully, dear Wilfrid. Your love and light will always be a part of us.

Family will receive friends on Friday August 23, 2024 from 11AM-1PM with a celebration of his life at 1PM at Garden City Funerals & Cremations (Formerly Patrick J. Darte Funeral Chapel) 39 Court Street. Family would appreciate memorial donations to the March of Dimes. Online condolences may be shared at www.gardencityfunerals.ca