Irwin Finestone

Born in Montreal, passed away in London, Ontario, surrounded by his family on June 17, 2026, following a third battle with cancer. Irwin was the beloved husband of Sabina (nee Wolfe), with whom he shared more than fifty years of marriage. Together they built a life grounded in love, family, Jewish tradition, and unwavering devotion to one another. The love he shared with Sabina was the foundation of his life. He was the cherished father and father-in-law of Jennifer and Zev Korman, Marty and Dana Finestone, and Ben Finestone and Ross Gilmour, and the proud Zaidie of Ariella, Ora, and Zoe. His granddaughters were the light of his life and brought him immeasurable pride and joy. Irwin was predeceased by his parents, Benny and Jennie Finestone, and is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Estelle and Sheldon Wald, as well as his nephew and niece Jamie, and Jessie Wald, and their families. Brother-in-law of Joshua Wolfe. Irwin enjoyed a long career at Merck-Frosst Canada, where his subject mastery, inquisitive nature and outgoing personality earned him professional recognition and lifelong friends. While he worked hard, family was always at the center of his life. Some of his happiest years were spent at the family’s country home, where summers were spent relaxing on the beach, evenings at summer theatre and skiing in the winters. Later on, he got to enjoy vacation time in the Finger Lakes with his granddaughters, for which the memories of those happy times will last forever. Irwin was intellectually curious and loved learning. He could spend equal time discussing science, Jewish history, current events, or the life story of a stranger he had just met. He had a gift for conversation and genuine interest in people, often striking up discussions wherever he went. The small moments that brought him the most joy were often spent enjoying a nice glass of wine, fine scotch or good food with friends and family, listening to classical jazz or Jewish cantorial music and going to the theatre with Sabina. Few things brought him greater happiness than gathering his family around the table for Jewish holidays and shared meals. He was a longtime supporter of Jewish communal life and, in recent years, became actively involved with the Linitzer Benefit Society of Toronto. More than anything, Irwin will be remembered for the love he gave his family. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, curiosity, generosity, tradition, and countless cherished memories.