elevated vpoi5 October 9, 1946 – January 14, 2026

elevated vpoi5 Obituary

elevated vpoi5 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Joseph Giza on January 14, 2026, in his 80th year.

elevated vpoi5 Bob was born on October 9th, 1946 in Toronto, Ontario, to Joseph Giza and Mary Giza (Whitty) He spent his childhood in the Christie Pits area, growing up alongside his three siblings. He built a life grounded in family, education, community, and a profound love for the outdoors.  Through his work, his relationships, and his love of the natural world, Bob touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy of gratitude, generosity, and joy.

elevated vpoi5 He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Ryan (Alex) and Kelly (Mike), who were the pride of his life. Bob was a devoted brother to Michael (Virginia), Raymond, and Maureen (John, predeceased). He was a deeply proud and loving grandfather to Joe, Gracie, Cam, Makinley, Violet, and Graydon, each of whom brought him immense joy. He was Uncle Bob to Patti, Donna, Lorrie, Greg, Sean, Spencer, and Trevor, and a great-uncle to Rachael, Mitchell, Connor, Cameron, Christopher, Jayden, Kai, and Adelaide.

elevated vpoi5 A man of extraordinary kindness and warmth, Bob was known for his infectious enthusiasm, quick wit, and boundless energy.

elevated vpoi5 For more than 35 years, Bob dedicated himself to education with the Toronto Catholic District School Board, a calling both of his children followed. He spoke often and fondly of his colleagues at Neil McNeil and Chaminade, who became lifelong friends. An outstanding and passionate educator, Bob introduced thousands of Toronto students to the wilderness of the Canadian north. From 1978 to 1990, he ran a full-credit environmental science course each summer out of Algonquin Park, driven by his belief that all students deserved the opportunity to experience the outdoors. He continued to lead student canoe trips through Algonquin park throughout his career. In recognition of his remarkable impact, he was awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1989.

elevated vpoi5 Never one to shy away from a new challenge, he stepped beyond the traditional classroom to take on secondment roles at the Boyd Conservation Centre and later at the Ontario Science Centre Science School (much to the delight of his young children, who fondly remember roaming the Science Centre after hours with him) 

elevated vpoi5 Bob’s commitment to environmental stewardship shaped much of his life’s work. He was deeply involved in sustainability initiatives, including Ontario Streams, the Chaminade College Environmental Club and the Adopt-A-Stream program on Black Creek.  His initiatives received many awards, including the City of Toronto Green Award in 2007.

elevated vpoi5 Above all else, Bob was an exceptional father who gave his children a childhood rich with adventure and joy. 

elevated vpoi5 No one who met Bob Giza could forget his passion for canoeing, Algonquin Park, fly fishing, Team Canada, or the Blue Jays. His enthusiasm was unmistakable and contagious. He was a true lover of adventure, happily recruiting his family, friends and colleagues to join him—often before they had a chance to say no! 

elevated vpoi5 Bob will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

elevated vpoi5 The family would like to extend a thank you to the doctors and nursing staff of Scarborough Centenary Hospital, ICU Unit, for their support. In particular, thank you to Dr Ray Guo for his exceptional care. 

elevated vpoi5 “Bob’s canoe has left the shore, and he begins his next great adventure, guided by another hand.” 

elevated vpoi5 Memorial donations in Bob’s name to any of the following organizations would be appreciated by the family as your expression of sympathy.

elevated vpoi5 SHN Foundation Centenary Hospital – ICU Unit 

elevated vpoi5 The Friends of Algonquin Park

elevated vpoi5 Camp Tawingo Campership Fund 

elevated vpoi5 Private Funeral 

elevated vpoi5 Private family Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on January 23rd, 2026, in the Chapel of St. Joseph at Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home, followed by Interment at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. 

elevated vpoi5 Celebration of Life 

elevated vpoi5 There will be a joyful Celebration of Life for Bob in the Spring. All are welcome.