Richard Joseph McIsaac
elevated VoWac October 23, 1939 ~ February 2, 2026
elevated VoWac Visitation
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 5-8 p.m.
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
elevated VoWac Funeral Mass – Chapel of St. Joseph (within the Funeral Home)
Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
elevated VoWac Reception to Follow Mass
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
elevated VoWac Cremation & Burial at a later date
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
elevated VoWac
It is with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father, Richard Joseph McIsaac. He was called home to God on February 2, 2026, at the age of 86. Predeceased by his wife, Ann. Loving father of David (Sarah), Susan (Chris), and Michael (Meagan), as well as adopted family, Hurly, Lemuel (Daphne), and Alain. Cherished Grandfather (aka Papa) of James and Ashley.
elevated VoWac Born on October 23, 1939, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Richard grew up at St. Joseph’s Vocational School and was raised by the adoring Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul until he was adopted as a teenager by Mrs. McIsaac. During his time in the orphanage, he made lifelong friends and stayed in touch with many of the Sisters. He was in the priesthood with intentions of becoming a priest until he changed direction, moved to Toronto, Ontario, and became a teacher and husband.
elevated VoWac A man of profound faith and unwavering character, Richard was a devoted Catholic who attended mass regularly. He was a pillar of strength and determination, qualities that defined his career as a respected educator and his role as the heart of his family. Richard dedicated many years of his life to the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), where he served as a Teacher, Principal, and later Principal of the Admissions Department. Known for his discipline and passion for student success, he left an indelible mark on generations of students across Toronto.
elevated VoWac Richard’s legacy is one of resilience and devotion with a strong will to live. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his warmth, chattiness, witty humour, love of gardening, travel, bike riding, skiing, tennis, poker, and the lasting love he leaves behind. He will be dearly missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.
elevated VoWac While our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing he has finally found peace and is no longer in pain.
elevated VoWac In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Spinal Cord Injury Ontario in Richard’s memory.
elevated VoWac
I am very sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. He was my neighbour for a number of years. Always in good spirits and he gave me valuable advice. I last saw him at a movie where we had an enjoyable chat.
My condolences to his family and friends.
My condolences to you Sue and your family on Richard’s death. His last days and weeks were difficult but he was comforted by your constant presence and strengthened by the Sacraments of the Church. It was good to reminisce with him about our experiences with the MSSB. He was committed to his calling as an educator and it was obvious that he loved his work. Richard lives now in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father. May you be comforted by your memories of life with him and may the Lord grant you peace in the coming days.
George Sytnyk
Chaplain
Mackenzie Health Hospital
May Richard’s family find peace, comfort and healing. As a colleague and friend we enjoyed working together at the Board and the many tennis and skiing outings. Richard’s warmth of spirit of adventure made so many days exciting.
May you R.I P. Richard. We are thankful for the times we had together
Sending sincere condolences to Richard’s family. As a friend of my parents (Bill and June Tajer), I remember Richard always greeting everyone with a big smile, and as a talented photographer who captured cherished, candid moments on my wedding day. May all of your special memories of Richard comfort you in the days ahead.