For those unable to attend the mass for the Late Tobias McDonald at the Basilica, can view it clicking on the following link: https://www.thebasilica.net/live/
Tobias (Toby) Francis McDonald
April 30, 1951 – January 24, 2025
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Toby passed peacefully away in the presence of his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer on January 24th.
Predeceased by his parents; Tobias (Toby) and Mary (nee Power) McDonald and his first loving wife of 35 years Shelly (nee Keough).
Toby will forever be in the heart of his devoted and loving wife; Noreen Byrne, daughter; Sarah (Tak Ishiwata), son; Mark (Michelle) along with his grandchildren; Gwenyth and Simon, his sister; Maureen (Jim Dunne), brother- in- law; Kevin Keough (Joanie), sisters-in law; Erin Keough, Sharon (Richard Boczkowski), and Willeen Keough. Toby had a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws in the McDonald, Power, Keough and Byrne Clans, who will miss him dearly.
Also feeling a great sense of loss will be Toby’s law partner of 30 years, Susan Hounsell, and their dedicated staff, his lifelong colleagues and friends in the legal community and the local / national and international curling worlds.
Toby loved salmon, trout and tuna fishing and relished the time he spent on the Gander River with the Cooper crew. His poker buddies of over 50 years will always remember and miss him.
Toby graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 1975. He was a highly respected member of the Newfoundland Bar Association, having practised law for more than 50 years. He played a key role in the development and construction of the Law Society of Newfoundland’s Law Building and Library. He was named (Queen’s) King’s Counsel in 2004. As a former Bencher of the NL Law Society, he was the recipient of the Gordon W. Stirling Distinguished Service Award. He received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Memorial University and was admitted into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2006.
Toby was an international figure in the curling world, being a member of the first Newfoundland team to win the Brier Canadian Men’s Championship in 1976, after which he represented Canada at the World Curling Championships in Duluth, MN. In 1998 he was awarded the Canadian National Ross Harstone Sportsmanship Trophy. In 2008 he was inducted into the prestigious Governor General’s Curling Club in Ottawa. Toby also competed in the Scrathcona Cup in Scotland in 2018. His role as Coach and mentor to Team Gushue’s 2006 Olympic Gold Medal win in Torino, Italy in 2006 was something he dearly cherished and spoke of often. Up to his passing, he was honoured to still be a mentor to “Brad” and the boys.
Toby was a kind, gentle man who “moseyed” though life with a positive outlook and a smile on his face. Toby was blessed to have a life filled with love, family, friends, music and laughter. He loved traditional Newfoundland music, he and Noreen would often go for a session at Erin’s Pub on a Friday night. His greatest strength was his outgoing, yet unassuming, personality which enabled him to develop lasting friendships with a large and diverse group of people. Once you were Toby’s friend, you knew you had a true and loyal friend. A relationship that would prevail forever.
Noreen, Sarah and Mark wholeheartedly thank Toby’s best friend, Rick Comerford, for his love, loyalty and support during this very difficult time. Words cannot describe our gratitude.
And thank you to Capital Drugs/PharmaChoice on LeMarchant Road for going over and beyond to assist Toby and Noreen navigate his medications process and to the many Doctors and Nurses at the Health Sciences Centre and the Palliative Care team at the Miller Centre.
The family will receive visitors at Carnell’s Funeral Home, located on 329 Freshwater Road from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Wednesday, January 29th and Thursday, January 30th.
Funeral service will be held at the Basilica-Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, located at 200 Military Rd, on Friday, January 31st at 11:00am.
A private family interment will take place at a later date.
Donations may be made in Toby’s name to a charity of one’s choice.
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
The Basilica-Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Located at 200 Military Rd, in St. John's.
Noreen & Family,
Anne & I were very saddened to hear the news of Toby’s passing. I first met Toby when he was inducted as a member of the Governor General’s Curling Club in 2008. Once you met Toby you became a friend for life and. as such, he made many strong friendships throughout the legal and curling worlds. His quiet insight into human nature made him a great coach and teammate. He was a special person and we will all miss him. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family.
Noreen,
Janet and I are very sorry to hear the passing of Toby. He was a good friend and we shared many memories. I will miss speaking with him on the phone and hearing about all his adventures. He was a great storyteller and will be missed by so many.
Condolences to Toby’s family for your loss, and the loss for the entire curling community. Toby was a great South Tour Captain, in 2018 for the Canadian Strathcona Cup Team touring Scotland, who led his teams to some great wins and with the North Tour teams win the coveted Cup. It is a loss for all of us on tour yet he leaves us with some great memories that will never be forgotten.
Sarah and Mark, along with the rest of Toby’s family, my deepest condolences on the passing of your father. Toby was a great guy, who was always pleased to stop and have a chat. I ran into a fair bit, outside of family get togethers.
Shannon Keough
Deepest sympathy Maureen on the death of your wonderful brother. I know how proud you are of the gift that he was to so many in so many ways.
So sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. He certainly enriched the lives of many people and represented our province as a proud Newfoundlander and Labradorian.
We knew (Shelly ) Toby’s first wife as well as Sarah and his son Mark and I worked with his sister Maureen at the old RC School Board. We enjoyed our visits to Toby and Noreen’s house as they entertained friends and always made everybody feel so welcome into their home. Condolences to Family and friends and cohorts of Toby who has left behind a wonderful legacy.May all of the good memories and Toby’s accomplishments comfort you during this difficult time and into the future .
Ron/Brenda Tobin and Family
Our most sincere condolences to Toby’s family. There are many curling memories from the St. John’s Curling Club which are fondly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Bob and Mary Ellen Porter
(Ottawa)
I knew Toby only in the past few years. What a wonderful, warm, kind human being., with a great sense of Humour. I wish we could have more chances to laugh together. So sorry for your loss Noreen.
So sorry to hear ofToby’s passing. He has been our lawyer for many years. There was no nicer person on this earth than Toby. I will miss him.
My sincere sympathy to his family.
Alice Finn
Noreen and family, we were truly saddened to learn of our beloved friend’s passing. Toby was one of Newfoundland’s Finest Sons. His wonderful kindness, humour, caring and good nature were his life’s cornerstones. Tobe had the innate ability to put people at ease, make them feel seen, appreciated and valued. He was a remarkable person who loved life and spread joy everywhere he went.
Toby’s life was one that was well lived and touched the hearts of all who had the pleasure to know him.
May all your happy and loving memories be of great comfort to you at this most sad time and bring you peace.
Louis L’Amour ( a famous American Western Writer) coined the expression that describes Toby very well ” a man to ride the river with”. Mr. L’Amour describes this person as someone; you could always count on in both good times and bad to show up and lend a helping hand to overcome any obstacle or help you achieve any goal., while all the time being someone that you would greatly enjoy having with you to share the trail.
With Our Deepest Sympathies,
I will miss you deeply
I have hope that in another realm we will stand shoulder to shoulder fishing
Noreen & family we are very sorry to learn of Toby’s passing . He was a true gentleman. Please keep all your memories close to your heart.
To Toby’s family, friends and colleagues, please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of a well respected man of integrity. Toby was so much more that my personal lawyer, a good friend of 40 plus years, I always looked forward to meeting with him, we would catch up and chat about a number of things including salmon fishing. I am so sorry that I could not make it to his funeral, as I am recovering from a bad flu and didn’t want to chance exposing anyone. He will be sadly missed, hopefully he is gone to a better place. Rest in Peace my friend.
Noreen, I am so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing and your loss. Take comfort in the nice memories….God bless
To Toby’s Family, Friends and Colleagues, It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we have to bid a farewell to Toby. He was always so friendly with a huge smile. Toby made you feel welcome to engage in conversation. He will be missed by the many people who were privileged to have known him. Speak of him often, for it is through your memories that he will live on forever in your hearts.
With sincere condolences,
Toby was a true friend , kind and gentle person. He has left all of us with a legacy and wonderful memories. Our sincere condolences.
TO TOBYS FAMILY. PLEASE ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES AND DEEPEST SYMPATHY
To Toby’s Family, ‘Work Family’ and Friends,
Please accept our condolences and deepest sympathy! I always appreciated Toby’s humor and enjoyed our conversations; as we discussed soccer, fishing, music and little curling thrown in for good measure. An iconic coach, athlete, lawyer and human being! A man of integrity with a personality in balance; grace and dignity together.
Sincerely,
Danielle and Bill Bradbury
To Maureen and Toby’s family,
Sincere condolences to you all on the passing of your beloved Toby. From what I know of Toby, he was a well respected and much loved family man, lawyer and curler.
My hubby grew up on the same street as Toby and Maureen. He has some memories of Toby as a child.
Rest in Peace Toby!!
My deepest and heartfelt condolences to Toby’s family and also to the numerous friends, teammates, colleagues and clients who mourn his loss.
It was with great sadness and shock that I learned of Toby’s passing. Three weeks prior, Toby, resplendent in his Curling Canada red jacket, had attended Carl Strong’s funeral. In November Toby was providing his special brand of legal counsel to one of my closest friends whose spouse had died suddenly.
We met as legal colleagues, however, I always considered Toby a “professional friend”. Toby not only took time to chat but to engage in a genuine conversation. His jovial personality and smile left you feeling as if you had just been blessed by a ray of sunshine.
Toby’s dedication to the legal profession is captured in this excerpt from the Bencher’s Notes on the occasion of the opening of the Law Society Building & Library.
The President of the Law Society, William H N Goodridge, QC, …
mentioned at the outset the sense of accomplishment that recent Presidents and one Bencher in particular, Toby McDonald, … must share with him.
…Toby chaired the Building Committee and directed the planning through its various stages to completion. During the final months of construction, Toby’s involvement required two or three hours per day.
Godspeed Toby! May you Rest in Peace & Rise in Glory.
Phyllis
Maureen and family, so sorry for your loss. Sending my sincerest condolences
Anne Marie Norris
Our condolences to all of Tobias Family and Friends we are so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing . He was a wonderful Lawyer and Friends for many years . He will be Greatly missed he was the best . Dave and Eileen
Very sad loss of an old friend from grammar school days. I will very much miss bumping into him on my summer visits. And seeing his lovely smile. My sincere condolences to his family.
Maureen and family.
I am so very sorry for your loss
May he rest in peace
With deepest condolences
Nancy Byrne and family
Our deepest sympathy to Toby’s family. He was a warm person and easy to know. We met Toby at the 76 Brier and again at the Governor General’s Curling Club Safari in Ottawa this past September. .He will be missed.
To Noreen, Maureen,Sarah, Mark and all of Toby’s family and friends I offer my sincere condolences. May the caring support of family and friends help you through this difficult time.
So sorry for your loss. God rest his soul, and comfort all those he left behind
My deepest sympathy to Toby’s family. It was so sad to hear of his passing, Toby was such a warm kind, considerate person, who took time to listen to you no matter what. Very fond memories of Toby. RIP
Noreen, Sarah, Mark and all family our sincere condolences on the passing of Toby a friend of ours for over 50 years through curling.. He was always a joy to be around .and was a superb curler who represented his Province well in so many ways. Rest in peace our good friend Toby!
I was so saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. He was such a warm and positive person, it was always a pleasure to deal with him on a file and to chat with him socially. Toby was never too busy to make a genuine connection with the people he encountered. He was a role model for a life well lived. I regret that I am out of town and will not have the opportunity to pay my respects in person. My condolences to Sarah and to all of Toby’s family.
Sarah, Mark and family, please accept our sincerest condolences on Toby’s passing. We have such warm memories of when he, Shelly and you guys lived on Maxse Street, especially your annual Halloween extravaganza! Toby was always so warm and full of life. His legacy to you and the other worlds on which he shone light will be profound. I regret that I am out of the province and cannot come by to pay my respects in person.
Robert Stack
To all who knew and loved him, sincerest condolences. Anyone who met Toby was better for it. He will be missed by many. 🪽
Dear Maureen and family, It is so difficult to lose a beloved brother like Toby was for you. I know there are no words to ease the pain of loss but to know that others care. His life made such a positive difference to so many people. In the midst of your grief there is much to celebrate about his presence he shared with you and I think the this quote could easily be his final message to all who loved him. “When you remember me, it means you have carried something of who I am with you, that I have left some mark of who I am on who you are. It means that you can summon me back to your mind even though countless years and miles may stand between us. It means that if we meet again, you will know me. It means that even after I die, you can still see my face and hear my voice and speak to me in your heart.” ― Frederick Buechner
Noreen and family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I was saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with you and all the family, now and in the weeks ahead. Cling to and cherish all the memories you’ve created over the years. They will provide comfort and support.
To Noreen and family. So saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. A kind and thoughtful man gone too soon. He fought a very courageous battle with grace and dignity..
God speed
Marcy and David
Deepest condolences to Noreen, Mark, Sarah, Maureen, Jim and extended family. Toby has been a very good friend for over forty-eight years. We had adjacent office suites in his building. Over the years he was on occasion my client but for thirty-five years I was his client as a tenant and he was my lawyer on numerous real estate transactions. We even worked together for years on numerous land development projects. I can honestly say he was a pleasure to deal with. There were numerous non business friendly conversations. Both our firms were always there to share office resources when needed. I will truly miss him. May he rest in peace.
Noreen and family, so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. I wish to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family and friends. I hope you take some comfort in knowing that my thoughts are with you and your loved ones at this difficult time.
Noreen, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband! Knowing you, I’m pretty sure you both created memories that will be treasured in your heart forever.
Edwina Connors
My condolences to the family on Toby’s passing. A kind hearted man who respected people of any age. A great mentor to young curlers and highly knowledgeable of the game. He will be dearly missed. RIP Toby.
Noreen, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. I didn’t know him but his name was certainly well known to me and synonymous with Curling. My condolences to you and his family at this difficult time. God bless.
Met Toby at MUN. in the 70s Didn’t see him much over the years but it always felt like he was happy to see you. Good man. RIP bud.
To the McDonald Family,
My sincere condolences to you all on Toby’s passing. Toby and I were friends since we were classmates at Law School. Then on returning to St. John’s to start our practices we continued that friendship for the remainder of Toby’s life. He was a great person as so many others have said and a pleasure to deal with on legal matters. He and I fished for sea trout together on the Southern Shore rivers and socialized for many years. He was a talented sports figure and we all took great pride in his accomplishments. May he rest in peace.
Dear Sarah, Mark and Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on behalf of my Mom (Margaret Ann McDonald), sister Lena and my family here in Calgary. Your Dad will be so dearly missed and fondly remembered.
We knew him well as Dad’s ‘Cousin Toby’. Toby and his sister (Maureen), along my aunts and uncles and their families – helped our generation understand and truly appreciate the strength that presides over the lasting bond of family and of being a cousin. We will be praying for your all.
We all in Niagara are broken hearted for the loss of Toby. He was always upbeat, welcoming, kind and full of stories. Noreen you are in our thoughts and prayers and we will be with you on Friday morning. Love you always,
The Ontario Roses
Dear Mark and family, I send my heartfelt condolences and sympathy to you at this heartbreaking time. We know too well how cancer ruthlessly robs us of the precious time that we have we have with our loved ones. I hope that the heavens guide you with tenderness, now, and in the weeks and months to come. God bless.
Noreen … my dearest friend, I am so sorry that I cannot be with you right now but know that I am thinking about you and only a phone call away.
I thought the world of Toby — a kind and gentle man, a great friend to many. He always welcomed me into your home with open arms. I will miss our get togethers, the wonderful meals we shared and especially our crib games which always included a good yarn.
And to Sarah and Mark — I am very sorry for your loss and I hope the precious memories you have of your dad will bring you comfort.
Rest in peace Tobias … your journey was full! You will be missed beyond measure.
Anne
Maureen and family. Prayers and thoughts are with you all. I He was a was a great on Amherst Hghts . A gentleman .
Noreen. So sorry to hear of Tony’s passing. We are away and are unable to convey our condolences to you in person. Toby was one of a kind. Talented, yet down to earth. He always conducted himself as a gentleman, even as an adversary. I had the utmost respect for him during my 32 years at the bar. May he rest in peace and your memories of the time he spent with you give you strength at this difficult time.
Noreen, I was so saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. I knew Toby from the St. John’s Curling Club and through the legal community. I actually kept Toby’s Deeds for precedents as he was so meticulous in his real estate closings. He was such a friendly down to earth person and truly a gentleman and a scholar. Sending my condolences to you and all the families..
We are sorry to hear of Toby’s passing.
Our condolences to his family.
Mark, Sarah and family,
I am so so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. He was absolutely one of a kind. He was such a presence. When Toby talked, I couldn’t help but want to listen (and loose myself in his stories). He was just so kind and a pleasure to be around. A true gentleman. He will be so fondly remembered by so many in the community. Take care of yourselves.
Noreen, Sarah, Mark & family,
Myself & Toby first met in 1995 in relation to a real estate transaction. Little did we know then, we would go on to be life-time buddies because of our mutual interests, especially flyfishing together at Flowers River, Labrador. Toby was the calmest, kindest, most respected, trusted, wise “gentle”man one could know. RIP Toby.
Sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. My prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time 🙏
Noreen, Sarah, Mark , Maureen, Jim and all the family,
My sincere sympathy and prayers as you grieve the loss of one you loved so well. I have worked with Maureen and Jim and know all the love they have for family. I also have had the privilege to meet Toby and was impressed by his ‘down to earth’ ways. He enjoyed telling me about his St. Mary’s Bay roots.
sorry for you loss
To Noreen and family, I offer my condolences.
I was privileged to have met Toby in 2018 as part of the Canadian Strathcona Cup team touring Scotland. He was a wonderful man, so full of joy and a great story teller. His contributions to curling and in particular to his Newfoundland teams were enormous. He will be missed.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugh McCarrel
Chair
Strathcona Cup 2018
I was sad to hear of Toby’s passing. It was always a pleasure dealing with Toby in the practice of law. His kindness, patience and courtesy were always present. He has now joined his parents Toby and Mary who were our neighbors and friends on Amherst Heights..
They will all be missed.
Noreen,Mark and family;
Condolances on the loss of Toby.He was a true gentleman and all around fine person.He will be missed.
Maureen, Mark and Family,
So very sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. He was such a kind, gentle soul and it was always a pleasure speaking and working with him. Sending my sincerest thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
Noreen, Sarah , Mark and families Deepest condolences on the loss of this great person . He was my lawyer but also a friend . One fond memory was my first attempt at salmon fishing at Flowers River Labrador. I never had a clue what I was doing . Toby took me aside my first morning and spent several hours with me showing me his masterful techniques. I certainly did not master the art like him . But still fish to this day. Always a great Coach . Rest in peace.
Noreen, Sarah, Mark and Maureen, I was saddened to learn that Toby had passed away.. Such a great loss for his family, friends and the community in general. May you find comfort in your wonderful memories and in the support of family and friends. My sincere condolences to you .
My sincere condolences on the passing of Toby. He was a without question a Trailblazer and a True Gentleman. May the many Memories you have all shared with Toby throughout his life, bring you all Peace and Comfort. Bless you all.
Noreen, So sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. .I know your heart must be shattered. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Condolences to Toby’s family and work family. I worked at the Supreme Court of Nl for 35 years. Toby was a true gentleman and a scholar. He always was always smiling. He will truly be missed by the members of the bar. Rest in Peace Toby.
I was shocked when Erin, my daughter, told me the news of Toby’s passing. We have been great friend’s since Grammar School. We played on many soccer, basketball, and volleyball teams in High School. And we were party to too many shenanigans over the years, all incredible stories and memories. Toby was always a gifted curler, even then! In 1968, Toby was part of the Marty Dalton rink that won the Silver Broom for Canada/NL, still in high school. But more than anything else, he was everything that you are all saying he was.
Toby was a fine man, a gentleman, a friend to all, and a pleasure to know.
“Long May Your Big Jibe Draw”, my brother!
Go In Peace!
Our sincere condolences to Toby’s family, we met Toby when he was in 1st year at UNB, he was an outstanding gentleman and a great person. He has achieved a great deal in his life. May he rest in peace and fly with the Angels.
Maureen, Jim ,and family, so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. We will hold you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you , your family, and Toby’s family in the palm of His hands.
Condolences to Toby’s family and friends on your loss.
I have been fortunate to accompany Toby on a wonderful fishing trip. Rest in peace, Toby.
Maureen, my dear friend, and the entire McDonald family, I extend my sincerest condolences on Toby’s passing! May you each find solace in all the beautiful memories of your life shared with him.. May he rest in God’s Peace!
On behalf of the members of the Governor General’s Curling Club, we extend our sincere condolences to Toby’s family and friends.
Toby was inducted into the Governor General’s Curling Club in 2008, recognizing his significant contributions as a player, coach, mentor, and advocate for curling. His influence on the sport spans from local clubs to provincial, national, and international communities. Our members will deeply miss Toby, who epitomized empathy, generosity, and kindness with his strong yet gentle demeanor. His legacy in the world of curling will be difficult to surpass.
The Governor General’s Curling Club
To Mark and Family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. may you find comfort in your fond memories of him.
Noreen, I was so saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Our deepest condolences going out to Toby’s family.
He will be missed by all his family and friends.
Toby was a family friend for over half a century and we are deeply saddened to hear news of his passing……
Noreen and Family
I extend heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends. I met Toby through my brother David in the seventies when both of them were attending law school. He was a most friendly and social individual. He and I went salmon fishing together in North River and he coached me into catching my first salmon. I. Have followed his starring roles in Curling and his many community involvements over the years. A truly remarkable man.
Rest in Peace Toby
Maureen, please accept our deepest condolences on Toby’s passing. We sincerely hope that you and all the McDonald family will find peace and comfort through your strong faith. May he reset in peace.
Brian & Libby Galway
To Noreen, Toby’s children, grandchildren and extended family, please accept our heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Phillips family of Topsail. He was a friend, lawyer, and fellow curler to our beloved dad, James Phillips, who has since passed.
A life well lived and loved. May he rest in peace.
Paul Phillips
Condolences to Toby’s family and his many friends. I had the pleasure of curling on Toby’s team for a couple of seasons at Bally Haly. A kind man and a great skip believing that any rock in play had potential. That was much like the potential he saw in everyone. Always a kind word. He’ll be deeply missed by all who knew him.
My deepest condolences to Toby’s family. I have very fond memories of Toby from curling days in St. John’s in the 80’s and 90’s. He was a great team mate, friend and also my lawyer. Rest in Peace Toby. I’ll never forget you.
Condolences too Toby’s family and friends
Toby was my lawyer when we were both younger and was always my friend, he was always there when I needed him and also helped my brother and my mom
Loss of a great man, so sorry for your loss at this very difficult time.
Sincere condolences to Noreen and all who loved Toby. He was a gentleman, an honest lawyer, and a pleasant companion with a great sense of humour.
He will be missed by his many friends.
My heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with your family, his friends and everyone who had the honour of working with Toby.
The entire world that surrounded Toby is in a state of shock and sadness at his passing. I spent most of my practice life as a lawyer dealing frequently with Toby on matters that were non-confrontational and otherwise, but I can sincerely say, as I am sure many will say, that he was a real gentleman, very kind and deliberate, and always respectful. He has left his family with a legacy to uphold.
I believe most of us who knew him would want to be remembered as he is.
I know that if there is a heaven, he is there looking out for you.
Our sincerest condolences, Barbara & Denis Barry
Noreen, Sarah and Mark,
So sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. He was a true gentleman and friend. I will never forget him sharing his famous cherry cake recipe with me just before Christmas one year. I had told him how much I missed my mom’s cherry cake. That was when I heard about his famous cake. That was who Toby was though. He always had a smile and was never to busy to say hello. He will be missed, but always remembered.
Sincere condolences to Toby’s family. I knew Toby through my work as a Newfoundland Land Surveyor, he was very knowledgeable about all aspects of the surveying industry. R.I.P Toby
My sincere condolences to Noreen, Sarah, and Mark and to his sister, Maureen and family on Toby’s passing.He was such a good guy, loved and respected by all who knew him.His loss will be deeply felt both in the legal community and the community at large.
Eileen MacNab
Noreen, Sarah, Mark, Maureen, Jim and families.
My sincere condolences on your loss. Toby and I go back to university days through curling. He was also a good buddy (along with Shelley) when Sue and I lived in St. John’s Lots of fond memories of playing bridge, fishing trips (especially Labrador) and, of course. curling.. Toby enjoyed life and he will always live in my memory as one of the good guys.. Unfortunately, we will not be able to make the trip to St. John’s. All the best, Noreen.. Give him a hug and a kiss for me.
To the family of Toby McDonald,
I was so saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. I echo what so many others have said; Toby was a great colleague and a fine lawyer. He will be missed, not only for those who relied upon his skills, but for his friendly chats and encouragement. May you find comfort in your memories of a gentleman and a life well lived. My thoughts and prayers are with you today,
Bill Boyd
Sending our sincere condolences to Toby’s family.
Toby was a pleasure to work with and a true gentlemen who always had a story to tell. Godspeed Toby!
Noreen, Sarah and Mark
I am away this week and will miss giving you my personal condolences. You know that I loved and admired Toby and am saddened by his passing. I can only imagine how it feels for you three to say good bye to such a wonderful husband and father. He was one of the best, and a big part of my life for the past 50 years. He will always be in my thoughts and i know yours too! These happy memories will help. Sending my love and warm thoughts, Bill
Noreen, Sarah and Mark
I am away this week and will miss giving you my personal condolences. You know that I loved and admired Toby and am saddened by his passing. I can only imagine how it feels for you three to say good bye to such a wonderful husband and father. He was one of the best, and a big part of my life for the past 50 years. He will always be in my thoughts and i know yours too! These happy memories will help. Sending my love and warm thoughts, Bill
Toby and I were as close as brothers. We have many happy memories of family get togethers on Exeter and Long Pond.. Maureen always had a special place in her heart for her only brother. Sarah, Mark and Noreen you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love Maureen and Jim.
My condolences to the McDonald family on the loss of a true gentleman and esteemed colleague at the bar.
I had the pleasure of working on a number of property related files with Toby over the years, and it was always a pleasure working with him. While there were often issues on the file, Toby took a collaborative and well reasoned approach to solving the issues. One always knew that if there was a solution to a problem, Toby would find it.
We were working together on a file up until the time of his passing, and It is unfortunate that we won’t be able to see this one past the goal line together.
Rest in peace Toby
My condolences to Toby’s family …He was especially welcoming to me when i moved to St Johns NL to practise. law.. We kept up thru the years and I had the honor of serving on Benchers with him . In addition to his many accomplishments in the curling world, he was dedicated to the legal profession ; a straight shooter and gentleman .
As a friend of Toby MacDonald, along with his two favourite curling teams, the Jack MacDuff and Brad Gushue boys, to extend my sincerest condolences to Noreen and his extended families in their time of grief and to those teams, along with so many others from around the world.
Being a most congenial( read most outgoing social person in the world) his loss is felt from his comrades on the winning Strathcona Cup curling tour of Scotland in 2018 as well as many special friends from his many years of fishing expeditions.
It was my distinct pleasure, at the particular prompting of Jack MacDuff, to have nominated Toby for membership into the Governor General’s Curling Club in 2008. His dedication over so many years towards a sport he loved so much earned him that award..
It was my pleasure to have spent so many years behind the glass at many curling events that will be missed.. Due to being out of the country I will be with you all in spirit next week as my thoughts will be with you all as you honour his life, one that he lived so well to the fullest.
RIP my friend.
Sincerely,
Les Harrison
Moncton NB
To Toby’s family and friends: Sorry to hear of his passing. It was only four weeks ago, just before Christmas, that I was back in contact with Toby. We were making plans to meet during the Trials in Halifax. He and I curled together on the MUN curling team back in 1969, before he became famous. I was happy to have nominated Toby and the Gushue curling team for the MUN Alumnus of the year after they had won the Olympic Gold medal. Toby was a great personality and friend. He will surely be missed. Liz and I send our sincere condolences. Rest well my friend.
Noreen and Toby`s extended family
I knew Toby for over 50 years –I am a little Senior to him in the Law Society .
He was a Man for All Seasons as his obit describes. .
He was an outstanding person –professionally and personally –he will be missed .
As Grantland Rice of the New York Times stated many years ago —
” When the One Great Scorer –the Almighty -comes to write against your name
He will not ask if you`ve won or lost but how you played the Game ”
The Game referred to is Life and nobody played it better than Toby in his day and generation .
Rest in Peace my friend
Sincere condolences to all who mourn his passing .
Sincerest condolences to Toby and his family. Always was a pleasure to work with. He’ll certainly be missed in the legal community.
Our condolences to the McDonald family. Toby was a pleasure to be around and a genuine gentleman in every dealing.
Sincere condolences to Toby’s family. As is often repeated here and deservedly so, he was fine lawyer and absolute gentleman to deal with. I’m glad to have known him.
A very sad goodbye to a friendly man who practiced law with courtesy and experience. I will miss our chance encounters and sharing of stories and laughter. Another great lawyer has moved on.
My condolences and sympathies to his family and friends. He will be missed by so many.
From a fellow counsel who has the greatest respect.
Richard Rogers KC
My sincere condolences to Toby’s family and friends. Toby was always very pleasant to work with on a file, and his contributions to the legal community will be greatly missed.
My sincere condolences to Family, loved ones, his law partner, Susan, and devoted staff on the loss of Toby. He was always a pleasure to deal with on legal matters and contributed a great deal to the legal community, by volunteering and mentoring.. Toby always had time for a chat, usually a long chat about the issues of the day. He was a professional in his law practice, knowledgeable and fair. He worked hard to find solutions and get the job done. I will fondly remember Toby and am sad that we will never chat again.
I am very sorry to learn of Toby’s passing . He was a true gentleman and a fine lawyer-loved by everybody.
Sincere condolences to all of the family.
Reg Locke KC
Sorry for your loss. Chris Peddigrew and Agnes Taylor
Dearest cousin Noreen and family, we are saddened to hear of your loss. You have Dan and my deepest condolences and sincere hope for strength and peace on your difficulty journey ahead. After a life well lived, Toby will surely rest in peace and rise in glory.
I had known Toby professionally ever since he started practicing law after he returned home from UNB. Toby was a pleasant person to be around and his clients could count on his legal services as a job well done.. Rest In Peace Toby.
Sincere condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Godspeed Toby.
sorry for your loss
Noreen, I was very saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. He fought a long, difficult and I’m sure courageous battle. He was a childhood friend that I will remember fondly. My deepest sympathy to you and Toby’s family at such a difficult time. Peggy(Byrne)Sheppard
To the McDonald family – I was saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you in the days and weeks ahead.
I was greatly saddened to learn of Toby’s passing. I’ve known Toby since I was a young child. He has helped me navigate through some challenging situations in recent years. I will be forever grateful to have known his kindness and help. He was a very caring, genuine man and I will cherish my memories. My sincere condolences to the McDonald family.
My deepest sympathy to the Family of Toby McDonald..
He was my lawyer and a fine one, but most important of all, he was my friend.. If you counted Toby as a friend, you had a friend for life.. I remember so many instances when I was looking elsewhere and I felt an arm around my shoulders and a kiss on my cheek, . and I smiled . I always knew that it was Toby .He was a constant in my life. He was a treasure. Oh, how sadly he will be missed..
May your wonderful memories give his family some comfort during this time of grief and loss..
Sue Roberts
Noreen, Sarah and Mark. I am at a loss for words to hear of Toby’s passing. I worked for Toby when he had his practice on Duckworth St and when he moved to O’Leary Ave. Through the years we developed a friendship that lasted through the years. Rest in peace my friend. Esther, John and Jason.
My sincere condolences to Family and loved ones on the loss of Toby. He was always a pleasure to deal with on legal files and a treat to share a yarn with-quite often about fishing.. He was calm, cool, collected and a professional in law practice, and outstanding in his athletic and community pursuits. I will fondly remember Toby.
Thank you good man for inspiring a province. Your name inspired a generation and today we remember and give thanks. Sacred to the memory. Sending prayers 🙏 to all your family and friends.
Condolences t0 his family
I also had the pleasure of working with Toby on a Provincial Government Commission. He was a true gentleman and such a pleasure to work with. May your wonderful memories help get you through this most difficult time. My sincere condolences to his family.
Noreen, my friend, so sorry to hear of Toby passing. My heart goes out to you and his Family. Sending you hugs, prayers and my heart felt condolences.
My sincere condolences to all on Toby’s passing. His beautifully written obituary vividly paints a picture of the exceptional and accomplished man Toby was, successful in diverse areas of life. His encouragement and support of many people, both professionally and personally illuminates the rich, unselfish inner quality of Toby‘s character. We met in high school. He encouraged me to learn to curl. We eventually played on MUN/Canada Games curling teams. I’m still playing almost 60 years on and so very grateful for the impact he had on my life. He may be gone, but will never forgotten.
Noreen and family, we are very saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. We have fond memories of Toby during previous vacations at Envoy Point in St. Pete beach. I have memories of Toby fishing from the grounds of Envoy Point into the intercoastal waterways. Toby would spend many hours day and night fishing from this spot and I had the opportunity to have numerous enjoyable conversations about how spectacular this Envoy Point location really is and what it has to offer- we called it “The Million Dollar” view. Toby will be sadly missed.
Deepest condolences to Toby’s wife, children, sister Maureen and families . A true gentleman. May memories of times shared sustain you in the days ahead. In the words of Helen Keller , “ What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love
deeply becomes a part of us”.
May he Rest in Peace 🙏
Clare
Toby was a great man. Condolences to his family and friends. Sleep well my friend.
Mark and Sara.
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear Dad.
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
In sympathy,
Fred & Marian Hopkins
To Norren,
One of a kind, for sure.
However, you forgot one other milestone in Toby’s sports resume. In 2010-11, he coached the MUN team to a CIAU crown – the first since the soccer team won nationals in 1970.
The best coach all time in NL history.
My sincere condolences.
RIP
John Lynch
Saskatoon
Noreen, I’m so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
To the McDonald family – We are so saddened to hear of Toby’s passing. Since I got to know him thru Curling in the 70’s with my sponsorship in the Seagram Mixed Championship held here in St. John’s in 1980.. Also, in later years, Toby assisted me in coaching his son Mark & my 2 sons in Celtic Minor Hockey, & we had so much fun & success. He always had a way of cooling my HOT head if an issue arose..We had many a good meal & a few to wash it down.. Just a great guy.. RIP
I had the pleasure of working with Toby on a Government Commission some years ago. He was a very nice man. At the end of our work, he took me on a tour of Old St. John’s, which he loved, because I was an “Outlander”! Later, he came for a sail with us in Notre Dame Bay and visited with us on Exploits Island. He made sushi in the galley and fed us all!
Our most sincere sympathy to his family. So sad to lose such a great and talented guy.
The anonymous story re the Snickers Cup was me. I didn’t intend to press submit.
I met Toby in the 90s when he came to Saskatoon to bid on the Snickers Cup U17 Canadian soccer championship income to Newfoundland.
He was successful, and the event was staged in St.John’s the next year. Tony chaired the committee. The event was as impressive as the man himself. He led a fantastic team of community leaders who staged a national sports championship and festival rivalling any significant event.
I was fortunate to see Toby a few times after that event; and always remember how much loved to host. I wish I had seen him more.
Toby was a one-of-one.
I’m grateful for what he did for my event and my career.
Noreen, I’m so very sorry for your loss – been thinking about you all day
Toby, was a great man and individual that helped myself when my husband Bob died, last year. A great,outstanding human being who went out of his way to help our family deal with all the legal issues involved when someone passes. Restc in peace kind sir. Hopefully, you and Bob can get back on catching up playing basketball in heaven. Rest in peace, our sweet friend
Sincere condolences to Noreen, Sarah and Mark. Toby will be missed by all of the Cooper clan. He was a true friend to Dad and Mom, Chris and Alice for many, many years. Toby will be fondly remembered, as is his Dad. God bless.
My sincere Condolences to Noreen, Sarah and Marc McDonald and family,, and to the Keough’s., and family. Toby will long be remembered by so many friends, including Team Gushue, and to many , more who respected, admired, and loved him!
My deepest sympathy to the McDonald family.
To the McDonald family I offer my deepest condolences. Toby and his family were great friends of my parents Jim and Irene and his wisdom and guidance was greatly appreciated by them. I too sought out his wisdom when my parents passed away and he guided me thoughtfully and kindly through the process. Toby was a wonderful down to earth man and will be sorely missed. May your memories of him bring you great comfort.
Noreen,
We are so sorry to hear of Toby’s passing. Sending you our deepest condolences.