Obituary of John Sullivan

John Sullivan 1922 - 2017 John passed away peacefully at Markham Stouffville Hospital on April 5 in his 95th year. He will be greatly missed by his daughter Frances, and son-in-law Duncan Smith. Pre-deceased by his wife, Vivien, and son Michael. Brother to Kathleen Dee and Uncle to Peter Dee, who reside in the U.K. Brother-in-law to Iris Muchlinski and Uncle to Christina, John, Peter, and Paul Muchlinski of the U.K. John was born in Cardiff, Wales and served in the RAF during WW2. He was stationed in Egypt where he met Vivien, and in 1947 they were married in England where John embarked on his study of Architecture. They had 2 children and in 1954 the family moved to Canada and settled in Don Mills where John set up his architectural practice. The firm of Sullivan and Pacek Architects was a thriving business from 1957 to 1997. John served as Chair of the Toronto Society of Architects in 1967, and was on the Executive from 1963-68. His keen interest in the need for quality urban design led to his participation in numerous professional committees. In 1974 John became a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners and in 1992 he was elected to the College of Fellows of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. John was a familiar face at the Donalda Club, serving as President in 1974-75, and playing many tennis tournaments. Later on, he was actively involved in the Toronto Arts and Letters Club. He pursued his personal interest in art throughout his life, becoming an accomplished painter. As well, he was a great reader and enjoyed discussing books and philosophy. Beyond his accomplishments, John was admired, and will be remembered for, his very kind and generous nature, his calm and easy-going demeanor, optimistic outlook, and sense of humor. These are the qualities that shone through right until the end of his life. A true gentleman.