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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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I thought maybe the passage of time would melt the numbness that I carry with me since I lost Kevin. That maybe colour would start to seep back into my life and that I would find comfort in the memories we built together. Almost a year has passed. I think to myself how is that possible? How has life managed to continue when one of the most important parts of my world is gone?
When I start to get angry at how unfair it is to all of us that you passed away I must remind myself how lucky we all were. I think of the fact I had the love of an amazing man for almost 30 years and that many people don’t get that. I remind myself to be grateful for the life we had, for the family we made, for the three lives we created together that remind me of you every day.
Kevin was an amazing storyteller. I am not. He used to tell people that he would never pick up a paint brush because I would end up repainting what ever he had done anyway. That’s how I feel abut his story telling abilities, why would I try when I had a master storyteller in him.
This will be my attempt to tell our story. A coles notes version that the boys will have so they can tell their kids how wonderfully crazy their grand parents were. Stories that many people may have heard but the boys may not have.
The beginning
We met at Canada’s wonderland. Well really in Windsor during the audition tour where I decided to apply for a summer tech job. See Kevin remembered me but I didn’t remember him. To be fair I was terrified as it was my very first interview for a tech job! Fast forward to me getting a job there and a long, hot, exhausting Paula Abdul concert call, then more concerts, and various other tech shenanigans, to becoming friends. He was the one I called when I locked my keys in my car. He road to the rescue with a slim Jim and presto he unlocked the door in no time. I was dually impressed, so much so that I asked him how he did it. He locked the door (forgetting that he hadn’t retrieved the keys) and then proceeded to unlock it again. It took him almost an hour the second time!
Fast forward past Paramount buying the park, Kevin being a Klingon, my becoming an assistant stage manager for the ice show. working on the Lazer show, starting my props career and Kevin moving on to tech jobs and summer theatre. I knew that his show in Barrie had wrapping up so I called and left him a message suggesting we get the gang together at my place for dinner. He was working With Scott Hill at Markham theatre doing instrument maintenance, so he gave Scott my invite. It turned out that neither Scott nor Brenda could make it so dinner for 4 became dinner for 2. (I found out later that Scott had point blank asked him if he liked me? When Kevin said yes Scott said then why are you inviting the rest of us??
So, Kevin came to dinner armed with 2 bottles of wine (he wasn’t sure what I was making so he wanted to make sure it matched dinner) and the movie Exit to Eden, a risqué comedy. We had dinner, drank some wine and watched the movie. We were having such a nice time we started looking to see if there was anything good playing on TV and stumbled upon Monty Python’s Holy Grail and so it began!
Part 2
WE became a couple and were engaged a month later. It was so organic that one day we were talking about houses and kids and… then we looked at each other and I said “is this going where I think its going” and that was it. Then the planning began. Oh and somewhere around this time Kevin gets hired by the University! Kevin asked his sister for advice on how to tell his parents. Her advice was eloping! Once we explained that my family might not be cool with that she said, “OK do you have a ring?” nope we are starving theatre folks! She then suggested that we get a nice fake ring, get ourselves invited for lunch or dinner and see what happens. Kevin’s dad clocked the ring before I made it up the side stairs but said nothing. Shorty after he was dispatcher to pick up pizza. As soon as he left Kevin asked his mum what she thought of my ring. She looked, paused and then asked if it meant what she thought it did. Kevin’s response was “well what do you think it means?’ She responded in a questioning voice “that I have an new daughter?’ Kevin nodded and then almost hit the floor as she gave me a hug! In due time Kevin’s dad arrived with the pizza, mummy pointed out the ring. Them we had pizza on royal Albert China and drank gingerale and Ribena out of crystal glasses.
Then it was my turn to introduce Kevin to my family. I knew that the hard sell if any would be my dad, so I arranged for Kevin to meet my mom while dad was at work. I knew if mom was on board all would be well. Not that I was worried about her I knew she would love him, and she did. Kev met my dad on Thanksgiving and of course all went well.
Toss in slow dances in the kitchen to Tom Waits I Hope That I Don’t Fall in Love With You and Holly Cole’s I Want You. A beautiful serenade of Collin Raye’s- If You Get There Before I Do on the baby grand piano at Markham theatre, Kevin teaching me all the joys of camping, countless backrubs (he gave amazing bac rubs),and a one year pre anniversary proposal complete with bended knee, a baby bottle of champagne, a bouquet of flowers and a ring pop
Part 3 (insanity)
So how do you plan a wedding that includes inviting a large number of Portuguese people, definitely drink), Salvation Army folk (don’t drink), theatre, and film folks? Them how do you arrange for all the wedding party to get fitted for suits when they are all over the place, and dresses for the ladies with the same challenges? (mayhem) Then you run through 3 DJs before you finally get one 2 weeks before the wedding, have one of your dad’s old friends decide to spend the week before the wedding with the family, have your dad decide that the house needs a new coat of paint which is still happening the day before the wedding, happen to pick a date that coincided with homecoming at the local university, have an amazing friend custom make your groomsmen’s vests then get him on to the show your doing so that he falls behind, Finally delivers them to one of the groomsmen the day before the wedding with a needle and tread because he hasn’t had a chance to put the buttons on! (guess who the only person on the male side who could hand sew). Yep Kevin! Then have a rehearsal with a missing groom’s man (picking up vests), Kevin’s dad saying it wasn’t to late to quit! Then stay up late working on the seating plan so that no fights break out (Portuguese people can be sensitive about these things) a major feat when many of the response cards just have a last name, many of them the same last name and hoping for the best, then play roulette with the vests because they didn’t have labels, having a groomsman caught in homecoming traffic because he went back to the suit place to have them repress his pants, Having Kevin arrive at the church full of nerves and seeing the previous wedding still happening with the thought of “ she’s marring someone else!” go through his head only to be redirected as some of his family had arrived and need the bathroom asap, finally the other wedding finished the guys proceeded into the church, guest started to arrive, the girls and I get there, I gallantly allow a good friend to use me and my dress as a screen so they could change into his dress clothes, every one gets ready and everyone is accounted for. After all of that have a beautiful wedding with all your friends and family. Kevin’s dad commenting that “now you’ve gone and done it!” as the ring bearer and the flower girl lap you and basically run down the aisle, then off for more photos and then to the hall with your master of ceremonies doing Pratt falls, only kiss when people get up and sing a song with the word love in it (amazing how many church songs have the word love in the title). We managed to keep the wine flowing for those that drank, the wine off the tables of those that didn’t and got a great picture of Kevin’s sister Valarie (salvation army minister) at the bar.
The rest of life abridged
To our first shared apartment, our first dog, Kevin having to pick up and carry said dog down 3 flights of stairs while hoping he didn’t get peed on, our first house in Keswick, our first child, my childhood home getting hit by lightning and burning to the ground, our first trailer (thank you Mr and Mrs Wright), baby febrile seizures, losing my mom, baby number 2 with Kevin saving the anesthesiology’s life for arriving 5 minutes after I delivered a 10 lb baby with no epidural Many cardboard boat races, many camp fires Alec covering Kevin with vomit in the green room at the school after telling him that his tummy was fine, many childhood illnesses , Kevin having to hold Kyle’s butt cheeks together to keep a Tylenol suppository in while I was at the hospital with Alec so he could get fluids because of the flu, Kyle sneezing while being on Kevin’s shoulders and covering him in snot while I tried not to laugh Kevin’s mom having a stroke, camping trips, amazing neighbours, baby number 3 coming into the world at 11 lbs and with a broken collar bone from being to squished then having Kevin’s sister Oriel taking care of him (her little soft taco) while I fought some kind of infection, kevin being amazing through it all. Moving to Oshawa, dog number 2, Brendan falling up the stairs and breaking his arm with me scooping him up, running up the stairs with his arm resting between us and not calmly saying “broken” to Kevin, when he asked what was broken I replied “broken broken!” (not my calmest parenting moment but one of Kevin’s favorite stories to tell). Many shows for me, many shows for Kevin, kids first communions, confirmations, graduations, Kevin’s mum passing, my dad having dementia, selling the farm, covid, my dad passing during covid. Still more shows, and talks of retiring.
Through it all our love grew. We always said that we would be that old couple walking down the street still holding hands after so many years, we wanted the boys to see it was okay to show affection, we made sure the boys were loved and tried to set a good example for them teaching them to be loving, generous, compassionate, inclusive and being so proud of the young men they have become.
Kevin I thank you for loving me, I thank you for making every day we had together special, I thank you for taking care of me as you would always say someone had to because I took care of everyone else, I thank you for being a true partner sharing all our responsibilities, I thank you for every story you read the boys complete with voices and sound effects, I thank you for including me in your work and allowing me to keep my toes in the theatre world by teaching students to scenic paint, to having me design so many wonderful show and for being just as collaborative at the theatre as you were at home, I thank you for tucking my feet up to your side on the couch because they were cold, I thank you for being an amazing cook and bread maker, I thank you for always believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself, I guess really I thank you for being the wonderful, amazing person you were, not just for me and the boys but for everyone who’s life you touched.
I will always love you; I will always miss your presence in my life, I will always cry as our son’s reach the milestones in their lives, tears of joy for them but also tears of sadness that you are not there to see them with me. You have taken a piece of my heart with you and I feel you have left a piece of your with me.
You have gotten there before I have, but don’t give up on me.
I’ll meet you when my chores are through;
I don’t know how long I’ll be.
But I’m not going to let you down, darling wait and see.
And between now and then, till I see you again,
I’ll be loving you, love me.
(Painting done by the wonderful and talented Nicola Moss. Thank you so much for such a beautiful and touching gift.)
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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The University of Toronto Scarborough has established an award in Kevin's honour. It is a testament to how much Kevin was loved by both his students and his colleagues The Family will be matching the Universities' contribution in order for the award to be in perpetuity. Anyone who would like to contribute to the award can do so at http://engage.utoronto.ca/site/SPageServer?pagename=donate#fund/2136
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Forever loved, remembered, and missed. Forever in our hearts
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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I thought maybe the passage of time would melt the numbness that I carry with me since I lost Kevin. That maybe colour would start to seep back into my life and that I would find comfort in the memories we built together. Almost a year has passed. I think to myself how is that possible? How has life managed to continue when one of the most important parts of my world is gone?
When I start to get angry at how unfair it is to all of us that you passed away I must remind myself how lucky we all were. I think of the fact I had the love of an amazing man for almost 30 years and that many people don’t get that. I remind myself to be grateful for the life we had, for the family we made, for the three lives we created together that remind me of you every day.
Kevin was an amazing storyteller. I am not. He used to tell people that he would never pick up a paint brush because I would end up repainting what ever he had done anyway. That’s how I feel abut his story telling abilities, why would I try when I had a master storyteller in him.
This will be my attempt to tell our story. A coles notes version that the boys will have so they can tell their kids how wonderfully crazy their grand parents were. Stories that many people may have heard but the boys may not have.
The beginning
We met at Canada’s wonderland. Well really in Windsor during the audition tour where I decided to apply for a summer tech job. See Kevin remembered me but I didn’t remember him. To be fair I was terrified as it was my very first interview for a tech job! Fast forward to me getting a job there and a long, hot, exhausting Paula Abdul concert call, then more concerts, and various other tech shenanigans, to becoming friends. He was the one I called when I locked my keys in my car. He road to the rescue with a slim Jim and presto he unlocked the door in no time. I was dually impressed, so much so that I asked him how he did it. He locked the door (forgetting that he hadn’t retrieved the keys) and then proceeded to unlock it again. It took him almost an hour the second time!
Fast forward past Paramount buying the park, Kevin being a Klingon, my becoming an assistant stage manager for the ice show. working on the Lazer show, starting my props career and Kevin moving on to tech jobs and summer theatre. I knew that his show in Barrie had wrapping up so I called and left him a message suggesting we get the gang together at my place for dinner. He was working With Scott Hill at Markham theatre doing instrument maintenance, so he gave Scott my invite. It turned out that neither Scott nor Brenda could make it so dinner for 4 became dinner for 2. (I found out later that Scott had point blank asked him if he liked me? When Kevin said yes Scott said then why are you inviting the rest of us??
So, Kevin came to dinner armed with 2 bottles of wine (he wasn’t sure what I was making so he wanted to make sure it matched dinner) and the movie Exit to Eden, a risqué comedy. We had dinner, drank some wine and watched the movie. We were having such a nice time we started looking to see if there was anything good playing on TV and stumbled upon Monty Python’s Holy Grail and so it began!
Part 2
WE became a couple and were engaged a month later. It was so organic that one day we were talking about houses and kids and… then we looked at each other and I said “is this going where I think its going” and that was it. Then the planning began. Oh and somewhere around this time Kevin gets hired by the University! Kevin asked his sister for advice on how to tell his parents. Her advice was eloping! Once we explained that my family might not be cool with that she said, “OK do you have a ring?” nope we are starving theatre folks! She then suggested that we get a nice fake ring, get ourselves invited for lunch or dinner and see what happens. Kevin’s dad clocked the ring before I made it up the side stairs but said nothing. Shorty after he was dispatcher to pick up pizza. As soon as he left Kevin asked his mum what she thought of my ring. She looked, paused and then asked if it meant what she thought it did. Kevin’s response was “well what do you think it means?’ She responded in a questioning voice “that I have an new daughter?’ Kevin nodded and then almost hit the floor as she gave me a hug! In due time Kevin’s dad arrived with the pizza, mummy pointed out the ring. Them we had pizza on royal Albert China and drank gingerale and Ribena out of crystal glasses.
Then it was my turn to introduce Kevin to my family. I knew that the hard sell if any would be my dad, so I arranged for Kevin to meet my mom while dad was at work. I knew if mom was on board all would be well. Not that I was worried about her I knew she would love him, and she did. Kev met my dad on Thanksgiving and of course all went well.
Toss in slow dances in the kitchen to Tom Waits I Hope That I Don’t Fall in Love With You and Holly Cole’s I Want You. A beautiful serenade of Collin Raye’s- If You Get There Before I Do on the baby grand piano at Markham theatre, Kevin teaching me all the joys of camping, countless backrubs (he gave amazing bac rubs),and a one year pre anniversary proposal complete with bended knee, a baby bottle of champagne, a bouquet of flowers and a ring pop
Part 3 (insanity)
So how do you plan a wedding that includes inviting a large number of Portuguese people, definitely drink), Salvation Army folk (don’t drink), theatre, and film folks? Them how do you arrange for all the wedding party to get fitted for suits when they are all over the place, and dresses for the ladies with the same challenges? (mayhem) Then you run through 3 DJs before you finally get one 2 weeks before the wedding, have one of your dad’s old friends decide to spend the week before the wedding with the family, have your dad decide that the house needs a new coat of paint which is still happening the day before the wedding, happen to pick a date that coincided with homecoming at the local university, have an amazing friend custom make your groomsmen’s vests then get him on to the show your doing so that he falls behind, Finally delivers them to one of the groomsmen the day before the wedding with a needle and tread because he hasn’t had a chance to put the buttons on! (guess who the only person on the male side who could hand sew). Yep Kevin! Then have a rehearsal with a missing groom’s man (picking up vests), Kevin’s dad saying it wasn’t to late to quit! Then stay up late working on the seating plan so that no fights break out (Portuguese people can be sensitive about these things) a major feat when many of the response cards just have a last name, many of them the same last name and hoping for the best, then play roulette with the vests because they didn’t have labels, having a groomsman caught in homecoming traffic because he went back to the suit place to have them repress his pants, Having Kevin arrive at the church full of nerves and seeing the previous wedding still happening with the thought of “ she’s marring someone else!” go through his head only to be redirected as some of his family had arrived and need the bathroom asap, finally the other wedding finished the guys proceeded into the church, guest started to arrive, the girls and I get there, I gallantly allow a good friend to use me and my dress as a screen so they could change into his dress clothes, every one gets ready and everyone is accounted for. After all of that have a beautiful wedding with all your friends and family. Kevin’s dad commenting that “now you’ve gone and done it!” as the ring bearer and the flower girl lap you and basically run down the aisle, then off for more photos and then to the hall with your master of ceremonies doing Pratt falls, only kiss when people get up and sing a song with the word love in it (amazing how many church songs have the word love in the title). We managed to keep the wine flowing for those that drank, the wine off the tables of those that didn’t and got a great picture of Kevin’s sister Valarie (salvation army minister) at the bar.
The rest of life abridged
To our first shared apartment, our first dog, Kevin having to pick up and carry said dog down 3 flights of stairs while hoping he didn’t get peed on, our first house in Keswick, our first child, my childhood home getting hit by lightning and burning to the ground, our first trailer (thank you Mr and Mrs Wright), baby febrile seizures, losing my mom, baby number 2 with Kevin saving the anesthesiology’s life for arriving 5 minutes after I delivered a 10 lb baby with no epidural Many cardboard boat races, many camp fires Alec covering Kevin with vomit in the green room at the school after telling him that his tummy was fine, many childhood illnesses , Kevin having to hold Kyle’s butt cheeks together to keep a Tylenol suppository in while I was at the hospital with Alec so he could get fluids because of the flu, Kyle sneezing while being on Kevin’s shoulders and covering him in snot while I tried not to laugh Kevin’s mom having a stroke, camping trips, amazing neighbours, baby number 3 coming into the world at 11 lbs and with a broken collar bone from being to squished then having Kevin’s sister Oriel taking care of him (her little soft taco) while I fought some kind of infection, kevin being amazing through it all. Moving to Oshawa, dog number 2, Brendan falling up the stairs and breaking his arm with me scooping him up, running up the stairs with his arm resting between us and not calmly saying “broken” to Kevin, when he asked what was broken I replied “broken broken!” (not my calmest parenting moment but one of Kevin’s favorite stories to tell). Many shows for me, many shows for Kevin, kids first communions, confirmations, graduations, Kevin’s mum passing, my dad having dementia, selling the farm, covid, my dad passing during covid. Still more shows, and talks of retiring.
Through it all our love grew. We always said that we would be that old couple walking down the street still holding hands after so many years, we wanted the boys to see it was okay to show affection, we made sure the boys were loved and tried to set a good example for them teaching them to be loving, generous, compassionate, inclusive and being so proud of the young men they have become.
Kevin I thank you for loving me, I thank you for making every day we had together special, I thank you for taking care of me as you would always say someone had to because I took care of everyone else, I thank you for being a true partner sharing all our responsibilities, I thank you for every story you read the boys complete with voices and sound effects, I thank you for including me in your work and allowing me to keep my toes in the theatre world by teaching students to scenic paint, to having me design so many wonderful show and for being just as collaborative at the theatre as you were at home, I thank you for tucking my feet up to your side on the couch because they were cold, I thank you for being an amazing cook and bread maker, I thank you for always believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself, I thank you for every "good morning beautiful", for every "how's my girl?", and for every "Goodnight my Angel". I guess really I thank you for being the wonderful, amazing person you were, not just for me and the boys but for everyone who’s life you touched.
I will always love you; I will always miss your presence in my life, I will always cry as our son’s reach the milestones in their lives, tears of joy for them but also tears of sadness that you are not there to see them with me. You have taken a piece of my heart with you and I feel you have left a piece of your with me.
I will end with the chorus from the first song you played and sang for me so many years ago on the baby grand at Markham Theatre. "Love Me" by Colin Raye. Little did we know how soon they would apply to us.
You have gotten there before I have, but don’t give up on me.
I’ll meet you when my chores are through;
I don’t know how long I’ll be.
But I’m not going to let you down, darling wait and see.
And between now and then, till I see you again,
I’ll be loving you, love me.
(Painting done by the wonderful and talented Nicola Moss. Thank you so much for such a beautiful and touching gift.)
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Brendan's Eulogy for his Dad
My father was an incredible man who left a lasting touch on everyone he knew. He had more stories than anyone could count. I don’t think there is anyone he could name that he didn’t have a story or fun fact about. We used to say you couldn’t ask dad the time without him telling you how to make a clock. WE even used that as the basis for our van licence plate acronym C.T.K.A. Can’t Tell Kevin Anything, because the most basic offhand comment could turn into an hour-long conversation about the origins of the phrase “into the limelight” We use to go on for hours and hours about random theorized topics like when and why humans evolved to choose food based on taste over nutrients. I will always remember the day I pointed out the pronounced sagittal crest of a contestant on the show we were watching, and he said that he finally knew what it felt like for others to listen to him. No only was he the best father I could ever ask for, but he was also the smartest, funniest and most caring man I ever knew. He was an incredibly special man who was loved by many and left a mark on so many people. I am certain we all wish we had so much more time with him, but I am so incredibly grateful for what time I spent with him, and I will cherish my memories of him forever.
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Kyle's Eulogy for his Dad
I love my dad, I love his stories, and I love the way he could always make me laugh. I miss him so much, but I still love him. I wish I could write more but I don't have the words to express both my love and my sadness. So I will end with this quote from the story "I Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch
"I'll love you forever
I'll love you for always
As long as I'm living
my Father you'll be"
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Alec's Eulogy for his Dad
To say my dad meant the world to me is an understatement. I also know that he meant much to many others both here and not and I believe that is down to who he was as a person, always happy to help friends and those he saw as family, even if he had to almost bend over backwards to learn a brand-new skill to help. It is through this trait of his that we gather here to say a tearful goodbye to Kevin Wright, my father, and my best friend. Hopefully when we next meet the stories, I will share will bring you as much joy and laughter as your have brought to me
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Covid hunts! TP and Christmas tree
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Christmas tree hunt
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, May 19, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, May 19, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, May 19, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, May 19, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Friday, May 17, 2024
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Daniel Horner uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, May 2, 2024
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April 25,2023 (posted on facebook)
Typing this is hard. Last Wednesday my uncle Kevin suddenly passed away. I am still in shock and disbelief. UK (as I often called him) was more than just my uncle. He was a friend, mentor and an example to me of the type of person I wanted to be. Never judging, always helpful and willing to listen.
We always exchanged many stories and had plenty of laughs.
Till we meet again, I will miss you
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
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One of my favorite pictures of us taken at a family wedding. Family was everything to Kevin and he was everything to us
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
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I thought maybe the passage of time would melt the numbness I carry with me since losing Kevin. Maybe colour would start to seep back into my life and I would find comfort in the memories we built together. Almost a year has passed. I think to myself how is that possible? How has life managed to continue when one of the most important parts of my world is gone?
When I get angry at how unfair it is to all of us that you passed away, I remind myself how lucky we all are. I had the love of an amazing man for almost 30 years and many people never get that. I remind myself to be grateful for the life we lived, for the family we made, for the three lives we created together that remind me of you every day.
Kevin was an amazing storyteller. I am not. He would tell people that he could never pick up a paint brush because I would end up repainting whatever he had done anyway. That’s how I feel about his story telling abilities, why would I try when I had a master storyteller in him.
This will be my attempt to tell our story. A Coles notes version the boys will have so they can tell their kids how wonderfully crazy their grand parents were. Stories that many people may have heard but our boys may not have.
The Beginning
We met at Canada’s wonderland. Well really in Windsor during the audition tour where I decided to apply for a summer tech job. Kevin remembered me but I didn’t remember him. To be fair I was terrified as it was my very first interview for a tech job! Fast forward to landing the job and first up a long, hot, exhausting Paula Abdul concert. More concerts, and tech shenanigans leading to us becoming friends. Kevin was the one I called when I locked my keys in my car. He rode to the rescue with a slim Jim and presto he unlocked the door in no time. I was dually impressed, so much so that I asked him how he did it. He locked the door (forgetting that he hadn’t retrieved the keys) and then proceeded to unlock it again. It took him almost an hour the second time!
Fast forward to Paramount buying the park, Kevin becoming a Klingon, me becoming an assistant stage manager for the ice show. I worked on laser shows and started my props career while Kevin left the planet Kronos to work tech jobs and summer theatre. I knew his show in Barrie was wrapping so called and left a message suggesting we gather the gang at my place for dinner. He was working with Scott Hill at Markham theatre doing instrument maintenance, and he gave Scott my invite. It turned out that neither Scott nor Brenda could make it so dinner for 4 became dinner for 2. (Later I discovered Scott had point blank asked him if he liked me? When Kevin said yes Scott said then why are you inviting the rest of us??
Kevin came to dinner armed with a bottle of red and a bottle of white (not knowing what was on the menu he wanted to make sure it complimented dinner) along with the movie “Exit to Eden,”a risqué comedy. We had dinner, drank some wine and watched the movie. We were having such a nice time so we started looking for anything good playing on TV when we stumbled upon Monty Python’s Holy Grail and so it began!
Part 2 - Becoming
We became a couple and were engaged a month later. It was organic until one day we were talking about houses and kids and… then we looked at each other and I said “is this going where I think it’s going” and that was it. The planning began and somewhere around this time Kevin was hired by the University! Kevin asked his sister’s advice on how to tell his parents about the nuptials, her advice, “elope.” Once we explained my family might not be cool with that she said, “OK do you have a ring?” nope we are starving theatre folks! She then suggested we get a nice fake ring, get ourselves invited for lunch or dinner and see what happens. Kevin’s dad clocked the ring before I made it up the side stairs but said nothing. He was soon dispatched to pick up pizza. As soon as he left Kevin asked his mum what she thought of my ring. She looked, paused and then asked if it meant what she thought it did. Kevin’s response was “well what do you think it means?’ She responded in a questioning voice “that I have a new daughter?’ Kevin nodded and then almost hit the floor as she gave me a hug! In due time Kevin’s dad arrived with the pizza and mummy pointed out the ring. We then enjoyed pizza served on royal Albert China and drank gingerale and ribena from crystal glasses.
Now it was my turn to introduce Kevin to my family. I knew the hard sell if any, would be my dad, so arranged for Kevin to meet mom while dad was at work. I knew if my mom was on board all would be well. I wasn’t really worried knowing she would love him, and she did. Kev met my dad on Thanksgiving and of course all went well.
Toss in some slow dances in the kitchen to Tom Waits “I Hope That I Don’t Fall in Love With You”, Holly Cole’s “I Want You” and a beautiful serenade of Collin Raye’s “Love, Me” on the baby grand piano at Markham theatre. Kevin taught me the joys of camping, administered countless backrubs (he gave amazing back rubs) and came a one-year pre anniversary proposal complete with bended knee, a baby bottle of champagne, a bouquet of flowers and a ring pop
Part 3 - Insanity
How does one plan a wedding with a guest list that includes a large number of Portuguese people, (drink), Salvation Army folk (don’t drink), theatre and film folks? How do you arrange for the wedding party to be fitted for suits when they are geographically all over the place, and dresses for the ladies with the same challenges? (mayhem) Then you run through 3 DJs before you finally get one 2 weeks before the wedding, have one of your dad’s oldest friends decide to spend the week before said wedding with the family, have that same dad decide the house needs a fresh coat of paint which is still happening the day before the wedding, coincidentally pick a date that coincided with homecoming at the local university, have an amazing friend custom make your groomsmen’s vests then hire him on a show so that he can’t help but fall behind schedule. When he delivers the vests the day before the wedding it’s with needle and thread in hand because he hasn’t had a chance to put the buttons on! (guess who the only person on the male side who could hand sew). Yep Kevin! Rehearsal starts with a missing groom’s man (picking up vests), and Kevin’s dad saying “it wasn’t too late to quit!” Stayed up late working on the seating plan so no fights break out (Portuguese people can be sensitive about these things) a major feat when many of the response cards just have a last name, many of them the same last name and hoping for the best, then play roulette with those darn vests because they didn’t have labels, a groomsman caught in homecoming traffic because he went back to the suit place to have them repress his pants. Kevin arrived at the church full of nerves only to see the previous wedding still happening and thinking “is she marring someone else!” only to be redirected as some of his family had arrived and need the bathroom asap. Finally the other wedding finished, the guys proceeded into the church as guests start to arrive and the girls and I make our entrance but not before I gallantly allow a good friend to use me and my dress as a screen so he could change into his dress clothes. At last everyone is ready and accounted for. In the end, we have a beautiful wedding with all of our friends and family. Kevin’s dad commenting “now you’ve gone and done it!” The ring bearer and the flower girl lap you tearing down the aisle, off for more photos and then to the hall with your master of ceremonies doing pratt falls, rule to only kiss when people get up and sing a song with the word love in it (amazing how many church songs have the word love in the title). We managed to keep the wine flowing for those that drank, the wine off the tables of those that didn’t and got a great picture of Kevin’s sister Valarie (salvation army minister) at the bar.
Part 4 - The Rest of Life Abridged
Our first shared apartment, our first dog, Kevin having to pick up and carry said dog down 3 flights of stairs while hoping he didn’t get peed on, our first house in Keswick, thousands of ginger snaps, our first child, my childhood home getting hit by lightning and burning to the ground, our first trailer (thank you Mr and Mrs Wright), baby febrile seizures, losing my mom, baby number 2 with Kevin saving the anesthesiology’s life for arriving 5 minutes after I delivered a 10 lb baby with no epidural. So many wonderful and poignant memories. The cardboard boat races, the camp fires, July fireworks, Alec covering Kevin with vomit in the green room at school after telling him that his tummy was fine and all of the childhood illnesses. Kevin holding Kyle’s butt cheeks together (sorry Kyle) to keep a Tylenol suppository in place while I was at the hospital with Alec getting fluids due to his flu, Kyle sneezing from atop Kevin’s shoulders and covering him in snot while I tried not to laugh. Kevin’s mom having a stroke, camping trips, amazing neighbours, baby number 3 coming into the world at record breaking11 lbs with a broken collar bone from being squished then having Kevin’s sister Oriel taking care of him (her little soft taco) while I fought some kind of infection and Kevin, my Kevin, amazing through it all. Moving to Oshawa, dog number 2, Brendan falling up the stairs and breaking his arm with me scooping him up, running up the stairs with his arm resting between us and not calmly saying “broken” to Kevin, when he asked what was broken I replied “broken broken!” (not my calmest parenting moment but one of Kevin’s favorite stories to tell). Many shows for me, many shows for Kevin, kids first communions, confirmations, graduations, Kevin’s mum passing, my dad having dementia, selling the farm, covid, my dad passing during covid. Still more shows, and talks of retiring.
Through it all our love grew. We always said that we would be that old couple walking down the street still holding hands after so many years, we wanted the boys to see it was okay to show affection, we made sure the boys were loved and tried to set a good example for them teaching them to be loving, generous, compassionate, inclusive and being so proud of the young men they have become.
Kevin, I thank you for loving me, I thank you for making every day we had together special. I thank you for taking care of me as you would always say someone had to because I took care of everyone else, I thank you for being a true partner sharing all our responsibilities, I thank you for every story you read the boys complete with voices and sound effects, I thank you for including me in your work and allowing me to keep my toes in the theatre world by teaching students to scenic paint, having me design so many wonderful shows and for being just as collaborative at the theatre as you were at home, I thank you for tucking my feet up to your side on the couch because they were cold, I thank you for being an amazing cook and bread maker, I thank you for always believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself, I thank you for every “Good morning beautiful”, for every “how’s my girl?”, and for every “Good night my angel”. I guess really, I thank you for being the wonderful, amazing person you were, not just for me and the boys but for everyone whose life you touched.
I will always love you; I will always miss your presence in my life, I will always cry as our son’s reach the milestones in their lives, tears of joy for them but also tears of sadness that you are not there to see them with me. You have taken a piece of my heart with you, and I feel you have left a piece of your with me.
I will end with the chorus from the first song you played and sang to me and the first song we danced to at our wedding, Love Me by Collin Raye. Little did we know how soon they would apply to us.
You have gotten there before I have, but don’t give up on me.
I’ll meet you when my chores are through;
I don’t know how long I’ll be.
But I’m not going to let you down, darling wait and see.
And between now and then, till I see you again,
I’ll be loving you, love me.
Good night my love
(Painting done by the wonderful and talented Nicola Moss. Thank you so very much for such a beautiful and touching gift)
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 29, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 28, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 28, 2024
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A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 28, 2024
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Kevin and his mum
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Cathy Bettencourt uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 28, 2024
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It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we lost you! I’ve been trying to think about the first time Lisa brought you home to meet us but I honestly can’t remember. I can’t really remember a time that you weren’t in our lives because it feels like we have been family forever.
Seeing you and Lisa together was truly a match made in heaven. You just fit together so perfectly. Must have been the theatre presence in both lol. You just got one another. It was so nice to see.
I can’t remember a time where I ever saw you angry or mad. You were always so happy and full of life and kind and genuine!
Anytime I needed something you always wanted to try to ‘fix’ it. Whether or be with my phone or computer or Tv. I remember times we would come over and stay for the weekend you were always the first one up and ready to start the day. You’d be sitting in your chair and the second you saw one of us you were like ‘can I make you coffee, or what can I get you to eat’.
It was no different than when you and Lisa would come over for birthdays or BBQs, the first thing you would both say is ‘what can I do to help’. Neither of you ever really KNEW how to just relax. Lol. It was a chore for us to make you guys just relax and enjoy the moment. You always just wanted to always jump in to help with everything!
I remember our family beach days and camping weekends. you were the fire master and all the camp songs with the boys. I always thought that was so amazing. I loved it. And I could see that the boys loved it and soaked up every moment around the camp fire! It was a beautiful thing!!
I think some is my fav memories together were at carriage ridge. Those weekends were ones I will always remember. The family and friends. The games the laughs and OMG the food that never ended lol. How is it possible to leave with more food than what we came with. Haha. No one would believe it but that’s just what it was for all of us. We always had so much fun!! The bowling and tubbing. We were all like big kids and it was always something that I always looked so forward to. That quality time to together for all of us and the kids. It truly was so incredibly special and some of the best memories that I will cherish forever.
I’m grateful for all the love you gave Lisa and to all of us. You were both lucky to have one another. The boys remind me so much of you and you will live on in all of them always.
I miss you and your great big bear hugs.
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 28, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, April 27, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Cathy Amaral uploaded photo(s)
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Cathy Amaral uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 14, 2024
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Cathy Amaral uploaded photo(s)
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Hilda - The Melo Family uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 11, 2024
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Dear Family and Friends,
Though many of you may not have had the chance to meet us in person, we are certain that Kevin has shared stories about our family, The Melo's, with you at some point. We are Fred, Hilda, Daniel, and Amanda - a family bonded not by blood, but by love and cherished memories.
Kevin entered our lives through his relationship with Lisa. In our traditional Portuguese household, Kevin may have seemed like an outsider at first, but from the very beginning, we connected deeply. He effortlessly passed what we fondly call "the Fred test" (an inside joke), and soon became an integral part of our family. Even during his courtship with Lisa, he became "Uncle Kevin" to our children, weaving himself seamlessly into our lives.
Kevin introduced us to a world we had never known existed. Through him, we discovered the vibrant Salvation Army community and their Easter and Christmas musicals that Kevin directed. Experienced the joys of camping in Algonquin Park, and ventured into winter activities like skiing and tubing. His adventurous spirit led our children, Daniel and Amanda, on their first canoe ride at sunrise, creating memories that still warm our hearts. I, too, recall my first canoe ride when Kyle was a baby, guided by Kevin's reassuring voice as he ensured our safety on the water. I remember how he would constantly check on me, sitting at the bottom of the canoe with baby Kyle, echoing in his usual humor “are you ok down there “making sure I was okay throughout the ride even though I was less than a foot away from him.
Our family outings, whether camping or enjoying stays at Carriage Ridge, were filled with laughter and unforgettable moments. One particular trip to Carriage Ridge involving tub jumping, is another memory we won’t ever forget, let’s just say, a sudden scream by Kyle had Kevin leap out of the tub with lightning speed, ready to resolve the horror, to only discover that the yelp was a result of a cut. It was a moment of panic turned into laughter, thanks to Kevin's quick reflexes and caring nature. And let's not forget the ER trip that I had leaving everyone on edge. Kevin's calm demeanor and support were invaluable during that stressful time. It's moments like these that remind us of the depth of Kevin's compassion and the way he always put others' well-being before his own.
Kevin's culinary skills left a lasting impression on us, with his famous "potato things" recipe and curry dishes that have become Fred's favorite and now has become a staple in our home. Then there were the jokes about food, always invoking our Portuguese heritage. We'd laugh about having "so much" because, well, we're Portuguese, right? It became our little inside joke, reminding us of the bond we shared over meals and traditions. Even our fishing trips, where Kevin and Fred's primary role was baiting hooks, were filled with joy and mishaps - like the time Kevin caught the "Big One," only to release it back into the water as it was smaller than expected, it was still his proudest moment as before that all he was able to catch was actual trash!
Kevin had a passion for the arts and he encouraged others as well. Amanda at a young age was interested in learning to play the guitar and her being a lefty made it difficult to play. Kevin being the passionate arts person that he was, restrung the guitar strings so that Amanda could play properly. On one occasion, Kevin took time out of his busy schedule to write the sheet music for one of Amanda’s musical auditions. They had planned to record a song together but regrettably it never happened.
Reflecting on our time spent together with Kevin, there's one story that always brings a smile to our faces—the hay incident. Bailing hay on the farm with Lisa’s dad and Fred was like a scene from the Portuguese men's storybook. One particular moment stands out vividly in our memories. As they were working, they glanced over to see Kevin's legs sticking up in the air, with him completely upside down in the chute. It was a hilarious sight, showcasing Kevin's valiant but ultimately unsuccessful attempt at handling the hay. While Kevin was undoubtedly the sweetest and most helpful person, he wasn't exactly cut out for storing hay. From that day forward, the ongoing joke was that Lisa would be recruited to assist with the hay, while Kevin would stick to handling cooking or electrical issues.
Kevin's warmth and humor were evident in every aspect of our time together. Whether it was bailing hay on the farm or sharing stories about his family in London England, he had a unique ability to make even the simplest moments extraordinary. His storytelling, complete with funny voices and sound effects, transported us into his world, making us feel like active participants in his adventures.
Though Kevin may have left us too soon, his impact on our lives is immeasurable. His memories continue to fill our hearts with love and laughter, providing solace in our grief. The memories we shared with Kevin are now bittersweet treasures, reminding us of his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering presence. From family gatherings filled with laughter to quiet moments of shared understanding, every memory is etched into our hearts, serving as a testament to the beautiful soul that Kevin was. Lisa, Alec, Kyle, and Brendan, the stories shared here are just the beginning - there are countless more waiting to be told whenever you're ready to hear them.
Today and always, we send our love to each of you, grateful for the privilege of having known Kevin and for the lasting imprint he left on our lives and our hearts that will never fade.
With heartfelt affection,
The Melo Family
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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fun canoeing
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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My Kevin Bear given to me by one of Kevin's students
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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Kevin and our friend Allyson's dog Penny. Kevin always said that if Penny was a human I would have been out of luck!
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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More Comedy On Wry
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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Eulogy from Brendan Wright Kevin's son
My father was an incredible man who left a lasting touch on everyone he knew. He had more stories than anyone could count. I don't think there is anyone he could name that he didn't have a story or fun fact for. We used to say you couldn't ask dad the time without him telling you how to make a clock. We even used that as a basis for our van licence plate acronym C.T.K.A. Can't, Tell, Kevin, Anything, because the most basic offhand comment could turn into an hour-long conversation about the origins of the phrase "in the limelight." We used to go on for hours and hours about random theorized topics like when and why humans evolved to chose foods based on taste over nutrients. I will always remember the day I pointed out the pronounced sagittal crest of a contestant on the show we were watching, and he said that he finally knew what it felt like for others to listen to him. Not only was he the best father I could ever ask for, but he was also the smartest, funniest and most caring man I ever knew. He was an incredibly special man who was loved by many and left a mark on so many people. I am certain we all wish we had more time with him, but I am so incredibly grateful for what time I spent with him, and I will cherish my memories of him forever.
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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Eulogy from Kyle Wright, Kevin's son
I love my dad, I love his stories, and I love the way that he could always make me laugh. I miss him so much, but I still love him, I wish I could write more but I don't have the words to express both my love and my sadness. So I will end with this quote from the story "Love you Forever" by Robert Munsch
" I'll love you forever
I'll love you for always
As long as I'm living
my father you'll be."
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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Eulogy written by Alec Wright, Kevin's son
To say that my dad meant the world to me is an understatement. I also know that he meant much to many others both here and not here and I believe that that is down to who he was as a person, always happy to help friends and those he saw as family, even if he had to almost bend over backwards or learn a brand new skill to help. It is through this trait of his that we gather here to say a tearful goodbye to Kevin Wright, my father, and my best friend. Hopefully when we next meet the story's I will share will bring you as much joy and laughter as yours have brought me
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 8, 2024
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Lisa AmaralWright posted a condolence
Monday, April 8, 2024
Message from Navjeet Mangat during Kevin's celebration of Life
Good afternoon friends, family. Thank you so much for attending here today. am honoured and privileged to stand before you in honour of such a wonderful life and legacy full of love and laughter. Laughter being the key. In preparing for today I thought to try to look for a quote to describe how Kevin would describe this moment, and I searched long and hard and I found one from Jeff Goldblum that you would all get a good kick out of. He says, Amazing tradition. They throw a great party for you on the one day they know you can't come."
So I think that definitely is something that Kevin would share with us today and in keeping with the officiant in celebrating Kevin's life I found a poem that I want to read and share with you.
Remember him with a smile today, he was not one for tears
Reflect instead on memories of all the happy years
Recall to mind the way he spoke and all the things he said
His strength, his stance ,the way he walked
Remember these instead
The good advice he would give us
His eyes that shone with laughter
So much of him will never die, but live on ever after
As we love you so we miss you
In our memory you are near
Love remembered, longed for always, bring many a silent tear
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Friday, April 5, 2024
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Kevin and his dad
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Friday, April 5, 2024
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Opening message at Celebration Of Life from Lisa and the family
On behave of Kevin’s family, the boys and myself I would like to thank you all for coming to celebrate Kevin’s Life. I also want to thank everyone for the love, support and all the food that has been sent our way. I know that there are a bunch of folks also joining us via the live stream so I thank you for taking the time to be with us as well. I would also like to thank those who are going to share their stories here today and to thank Nav Mangat for agreeing to read messages and stories from those who wanted to share but felt unable to get up and tell them today.
I have had the pleasure of having Kevin in my life for 30 years, some as a good friend and most as my husband. Kevin and I were that couple who still held hands when we walked together, still kissed just because. Every morning I would get a text saying good morning Beautiful. A co worker commented one day that she wished someone would do that for her. Of course, I told Kevin and being the person that he was every once and a while he would send the same text to her. I guess some people would find that strange, but I didn’t. It was just Kevin being Kevin. He knew it would make her smile and that was part of his mission in life.
We were gifted with 3 handsome boys that he taught to love, to laugh, and to celebrate people’s differences. He taught them how to make people laugh, how to be compassionate, how to tell a story, how to live a life dedicated to being good people and how to share that with those around them. We are grateful for the time we had with him even though he was taken from us to soon.
I don’t think Kevin really understood what an indelible impression he has made in so many peoples lives. I have heard from people from every stage of his life and they all have a Kevin story. Its fitting given that Kevin had a story for every occasion. As some one said in one of the tributes Kevin was Google before google existed.
He had such a huge amount of love to give, and he did so freely. He was always ready with a shoulder to cry on, a hug, always ready to listen and always ready to help in any way he could in any situation.
Kevin had many passions. He loved being in the outdoors patiently teaching the boys many of the skills he learned with his dad at scouts, and excited to introduce them to the new camping gear that I made sure he got for every birthday, Christmas and of course fathers’ day.
He loved performing in high school, his sisters church musicals, with Comedy on rye, as he read bedtime stories to his boys complete with animated voices and sound effects and for his students in class. He worked extra hard to make classes informative but also animated and exciting. He was lucky enough to work in a job that he loved with people that he respected and who in short order became a second family.
Today is about honoring his life, his passions. And how he lived his life with so much love and humour. The stories that will be told, the music that will be played and the pictures you will see perhaps are not the things people expect on an occasion such as this. We have done our best to make it a celebration about Kevin, and silliness and laughter were a huge part of who he was. To be truthful it was difficult to find pictures of him in his serious moments as they were few and far between. It was as if he knew that he was here to entertain and sooth people with humour and silliness.
I ask you all to feel free to write down you Kevin stories on the cards that have been provided. And to trade his stories with one another during the light lunch that will follow. I also encourage you to enjoy the ice cream truck that will be here during that time. This is a celebration of his life and as such its about life, love, laughter and fun. I’m sure he will be looking down at us with a smile. Yes, we are grieved by his loss, but we are better for having known him and he would not want us to wallow in tears but to laugh and smile at all the stories that are now ours to tell.
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Amanda Melo uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 4, 2024
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In the tapestry of our lives, there are those rare souls who touch us so deeply, they become family in every sense, regardless of blood ties. Uncle Kevin was one of those extraordinary souls. His presence was like sunshine, warming every heart he encountered. His hugs were like a safe harbor, comforting and reassuring even in the stormiest of times.
He was more than just an uncle; he was a mentor, a confidant, and a friend. His ability to understand, love, and appreciate us all, regardless of our differences, was a testament to the depth of his character and the enormity of his heart.
We will always cherish the memories of him, his unwavering support for his family and friends, and his infectious laughter that could light up any room.
Though he left this world far too soon, his legacy of love and kindness lives on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him. Every day, we carry his memory with us, and though the ache of his absence may never fully fade, we find solace in the countless moments of joy he brought into our lives. He may be gone, but his spirit continues to shine brightly, a beacon of love and light guiding us through even the darkest of days.
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 4, 2024
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All of us at the farm with Lisa's dad
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 4, 2024
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Trailer fun!
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 4, 2024
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Escape room fun!
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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First concert as a family
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Kev as a Klingon
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Our first camping trip together
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Thursday, April 4, 2024
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Please wait
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, April 4, 2024
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Early days at UTSC
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
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Kevin and Marty
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Paula Sperdakos uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
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My deeply beloved Kevin: the best of colleagues, the best of collaborators, the best of friends.
For over 20 years at UTSC, we worked so well together, doing big shows, little shows, in-class scene work, and on and on, with countless students.
Kevin was the first Technical Director I'd ever known - and I've known quite a few- who never said "No." I'd ask him if it were possible to do such-and-such, and he'd say "Leave it to me." And then he'd make it possible. Whatever script I would give him that I was wanting to direct, he would always say, "I'm in."
Kevin loved women. Not in any smarmy way, although he impersonated dirty old men superbly. He'd phone me and say, "what am I wearing? (heh heh heh)." And who can forget what he'd say whenever some spicy subject came up - "oh, baby!" He appreciated women; he enjoyed the company of women; he liked women, particularly strong women, which you really can't say about most men; and of course he had a wonderful strong woman to whom he was utterly devoted at home: Lisa
such fun together, he and I. Even in the face of limited resources, challenges and obstacles of all kinds, artistic and otherwise, predicaments and crises, we had each other's back, we trusted each other unreservedly, and we delighted in each other's company always.
I remember encountering Kevin leading a group of first-year students around the theatre one September. We hadn't see each other, we both gasped, he lifted me up of my feet in one his glorious bearhugs, and we both screamed with joy. The students were saucer-eyed, clearly thought we were mad, and perhaps wondered if they should look for some different courses.
How we laughed together. At everything. At inconsequential. At human behaviour. At something he'd found on the internet. At things we inserted into shows. In 2010, for example we did the airport comedy Departures and Arrivals - for which amazing Scott Dutrisac, by then the TD when Kevin became production manager of the LLBT, built a truly gigantic multi-functional set with up-and-down staircases and a rotating luggage carousel - we decided that all the airlines making flight announcements should include the word "moose" in their names, in different languages. Kevin and Scott and I, and several students, recorded these flight announcements, and for some reason this rendered us beside ourselves with mirth.
Sometimes the laughter was so extreme as to necessitate a quick trip to the nearest washroom.
We developed a sort of psychic short-hand, Kevin and I. We'd sit for hours (and hours and hours) doing lighting levels and cues - non-theatre people and even most actors have absolutely no idea what goes into the lighting process (or the sound process, or any other technical process for that matter, and they sure as hell have no idea what the director actually does)- and Kevin would be on headset and call for a number of lights to whoever was in the booth - usually Scott, or later dear Colin Harris - and say, "What do you think of that for the top of Scene Three?" And I'd say, "hmmm, I wonder if we could have a little more of a...pre-dawn feeling?" And Kevin would say, "Pre-dawn. Right." He'd call for a few adjustments, and there it would be. Pre-dawn.
When we did The Three Penny Opera together in2001 -some of our best all-time students were in that one, including our Barry Freeman - our set (another massive one consisting of scaffolding and hording, designed by Lisa) -made it necessary for almost all the lighting to be front lighting. I remember Kevin saying in a rather uncertain way as we did the levels and set the cues for the show, "I really don't know what I'm doing with this one. I've never done anything like this before." Well, of course, the lighting was brilliant: a perfect illustration of the bizarre jagged, garish quality of that great piece of musical theatre.
So sometimes we were fortunate enough to have Lisa (to whom Kevin always referred as :"the lovely and talented," as indeed she is) as our set designer. She was willing to work for a pittance, which was all we could afford to pay her from our ridiculously tiny budgets. (My musician husband, Jim Montgomery, would similarly donate his services to us, creating sound-and-wordscapes, composing original music, and contributing his expertise in many ways,) But sometimes Lisa was not available, and Kevin and the TD, with input from me, would collaborate to create the set. This was the case with one of the productions of which Kevin and I (and Scott) were particularly proud. The Women of Troy, which we did in2013. This was the last production that Scott did with us before leaving for greener pastures. (The only thing that helped us to survive Scott's leaving us was that it brought Colin to us in his place.) I wanted to place the play in a war-torn Mediterranean setting with a bit of once-upon-a-time and a bit of right now sort of feeling. Kevin asked me to bring in a photograph that might give him and Scott a sense of what I was looking for. I found one in the newspaper that pictured a figure scrambling over the rubble in bombed Beirut, and brought it in for the Guys to see. As was usual in these meetings, the ideas just started flowing: broken marble pillars, a tumbled-down shack for the Chorus to emerge from, various levels - I love levels and have to have them in every show I do- and, for the deck of the stage...what" They looked at each other, and via their psychic connection, said "Gravel." And sure enough, the stage area of the LLBT was covered in the hundreds of pounds of gravel they brought in. The effect was remarkable. Kevin particularly loved making props, and he more challenging they were to create, the happier he was. One particular extremely complicated prop nearly got the better of him, though. This was in our 1998 major production, Museum, a very quirky play that takes place entirely in...a museum. The prop was an installation, actually, meticulously described in the script. It's a clothesline, with clothes hanging from it, but not an ordinary clothesline, because mannequins of the people wearing the clothes are actually in the clothes hanging from the line. These people are from various "walks of life," as outlined by the playwright. One of the figures hanging from the line is the creator of the installation, who actually comes on stage at one point to check out his work. And he is wearing exactly what the mannequin is wearing. (The actor who plays the artist was... Barry Freeman.) The challenge for Kevin was not just how to anchor the clothesline, with all this weight, to the stage floor, but, crucially, the fact that the script calls for all the characters on the stage (in the museum) to tear the clothesline apart in a fit of frustration about Art, and Life, and Who-Knows-What, pulling the mannequins' heads and feet off, and throwing the torsos aside. And of course, because this was live theatre, the whole thing had to be sturdy enough to withstand this being done for multiple performances. Kevin spent weeks trying to figure this one out. He'd think he'd solved it, the whole thing would fall down, the playwright's instructions seemed impossible to achieve, and on and on. Again, somehow, through sheer will and ingenuity, he made it happen, and the result was spectacular.
A lot of my memories of Kevin and me, and Lisa and Scott and Colin and Trisha over the years, involve late nights at the theatre, working ourselves into the state of sometimes giddy exhaustion. For Goodnight Desdemona (Good morning Juliet), which we did in 1996, we had yet another massive, complicated set- there seems to be a regular refrain here, doesn't there? - which included multiple levels and various bizarre unwieldly giant cube on castors. Set changes were a nightmare. One morning close to opening, I came into the theatre after a terribly late night before, to find Kevin lying on the stage floor, installing something on one of the pieces of the set, and uttering in frustration. We has all been working terribly hard for days and days, and he was punch drunk with fatigue. (He told me once during that time, when the family lived in Keswick, that sometimes he would be so tired driving home after these nights in the theatre- and this was usually in the winter - that the only way he could keep from falling asleep at the wheel was to hang his head out the window as he drove so the cold air would keep him awake.) Anyway, this time I said to him, "what are you doing, Kevin?" and he said, "I'm trying to install a handle on Constance (the main character)'s secret door, but I couldn't find one so I'm making one out of a spoon. But I'm having trouble with it." I positively exploded! "A SPOON! Are you nuts? OMG, Kevin, get up off the floor, go to the hardware store, and BUY a real handle for 25 cents!: He sat up slowly, blinking at me as if coming out of a tunnel into the light, and said. "Oh. Yeah. I could do that." And off he went to buy a handle.
Everybody who knew Kevin remembers his many, many acts of kindness. Some involved driving people home after long nights in the theatre, even if it took him miles out of his way. One such night, it seemed that all the people I relied upon to drive me to the subway - I don't drive and live downtown - had left, or weren't able to take me. The last buses from campus were terribly unreliable. Drear Kevin, who was longing to go home, said, "Come on, I'll drive you to Kennedy Station," which of course is in the opposite direction from Oshawa. We proceeded through the cold to the almost empty darkened parking lot: Kevin set his GPS for Kennedy, and somehow the GPS seemed to loss her mind. "Turn left." she said. Puzzled, Kevin did that. "Turn right!" "Turn left!" "Turn Right!" - she had us going in circles. Kevin finally said "All right!." and started doing wheelies in the parking lot, round and round, with the two of us shrieking like demented children, high on exhaustion and our shared love of theatre-making.
Kevin's equal in kindness and generosity department was always his beloved Lisa. My last big show at the LLBT was Absolutely!(Perhaps) which we did in 2017. Lisa had designed a truly extraordinary (and yes, massive) set for us in 2014 for the Crucible -one of the most wonderful sets that had ever been installed in the LLBT - and we had such a creative and congenial time working on that production that we decided to look for one last show for her to design for me before I retired. But she was very busy in late 2016 and early 2017 (She's always busy, but his was unusual), and although she wanted very much to design the show for me, it was proving very difficult for her to find the time. Kevin Cand Colin tried to pick up the slack, but Kevin was anxious not to interfere with Lisa's creative ideas as a designer. Time was passing, though-rehearsals were about to begin, and I had yet to get a clear idea of the stage ground plan that I would be working with, and I was beginning to panic. One day Kevin and I met to discuss the set, but I was close to tears of worry and frustration. A few days later Kevin called me in my office and asked if he could come over to talk further about the set. When he arrived, he had Lisa with him. I don't know what Lisa did to get out of her work obligations that day to discuss the set with me and Kevin, and I don't know how she was able to clear her schedule so that she could subsequently put in hours and hours painting- but what they both did for me during that time was an act of love.
The last time I saw Kevin in person was late spring 2922. I had to go out to UTSC, and I contacted Kevin, Colin and Trisha to see if we could get together and go to lunch. We hadn't seen each other all together since the pandemic was declared in March 2020. We met in the theatre. of course, and Lisa was there with Kevin, and Katie and Owen were there with Colin. and Trisha was there, and we all hugged each other and it was wonderfully emotional. Kevin hadn't cut his hair or trimmed his bearded for two years, I guess, and he looked like a mountain man. We all went off to lunch at Ted's Diner, and had a wonderful time. Since then, Kevin used to phone me from his car when he was on his way home, and he'd tell me all the news about what was going on at the LLBT. The last time he did that was sometime during February, I think, and he had Lisa with him in the car, After they arrived home., and said goodbye, I never imagined that would be the last time I'd hear his beautiful, special voice.
Kevin's last name "wright" means, literally, "maker'. "craftsman," "meticulous worker," "artisan;" and he was all these things, and so much more. He was a gifted, fully-rounded artist-a musician, a comedian, an actor, a singer, a designer, a teacher-and he loved his work, and he loved to laugh, and he loved his life and his students and his colleagues (most of them)- and most of all, of course, he loved his Lisa and his Alec, Kyle. and Brendan, and his extended family and many dear friends. And he loved me and I knew it; and I loved him; and he knew it. And I will remember, and miss, my dear, dear friend for as long as I live.
In friendship forever
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Facebook Condolences posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Condolences posted on Alec's Facebook
Alec, your father was a great guy, and someone who did good to those he knew. I'm sorry for your loss and that of your family. You're all in my thoughts. Take care.
Jamie Mack
My condolences, I was one of his students at UTSC and he was one of the best UTSC had to offer. I'm in shock and my heart goes out to you all.
Suzan Pritch
I am so sorry for your loss, everyone oved him but nothing comes close to how much he loved yall.
Emily Pople
I'm so sorry Alec...you are truly a strong man and one he was so proud of you and your brothers and was bursting with love at all times...I see him in each of you boys in different ways.
My deepest condolences sweetheart. XOXO
Aemilia Robinson
Alec, I am so sorry. He was a kind, creative, funny, gentle and generous human. Sending so much love to you and your family.
Rebecca Golden
I am so sorry to hear this news. I taught at UTSC and had many many laughs with Kevin. He was such a kind clever and talented man. My condolences to you.
Maria Ricossa
So sorry for your loss! He was such a friendly and kind man. My condolences to you and your family.
Noam Markus
Alec, your dad was my teacher and mentor at UTSC, and it was a pleasure to keep in touch after I graduated. He was a good man and helped so many people. He was always so full of joy and love and pride for you, your brothers and your mom. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Michelle Righetti
My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I had the pleasure of knowing him during my time at UTSC as a theatre student and he was such a witty, funny guy, always smiling and nice to chat with. May he Rest in peace.
Ilana Fernandes
So sorry for your loss Alec...Your dad was an amazing guy and will be missed by many..
Rebecca Horner
The same comes from me Alec.
I met your dad in Highschool over 42 years ago. Somehow, as you know, we already knew each other. We never quite figured out how. He will always be my closest brother.
You'll hear that from many.
Because of him, and the way he touched most hearts, you, your brothers and your mother are part of the largest and closest of families.
I will always be here for all of you, as Kevin was there for me.
Richard Laxton
I'm so sorry. I was one of his students at UTSC and he was a remarkable and amazing man. He lit up the room with his presence and brightened our lives and I thank him for that. My heart goes out to you and your loved ones, Alec
Ria Mae
I am so saddened to wake up and hear this news. I am very sorry for your loss Alec and family. Kevin was a sweet kind talented humble and dear friend to me and so many others. Working with him at Canada's Wonderland and later Comedy on Wry brought us very close. I last saw Kevin at the CNE where we bumped into each other, and I met all of his family. I could see it in his face and hear it in his voice how absolutely proud he was of all of you. Sending you all so much love!!! absolutely gutted.
Rob Wells
There are no words.
Friends since 1979... the Privilege of knowing you is, no doubt, felt by everyone who ever met you. My heart is broken for the whole family, and for friends far and wide. Kevin is truly one of the greatest men I've ever known.
Holding you and your family in my heart, today and always.
Sandy Harris
Thinking of you and your mom and brothers. Hugs to you all.
Michelle Patton Horner
Thinking of you, Alec, and sending yo and your brothers much love.
Cheryl Fallis
Your Dad was such a lovely man! So sorry for your loss
Kathryn Rowse
It is with great sadness that I hear this news. I only got to spend a little bit of time with him but he was jus a fun man to be around.
Praying and wishing you and your family all the best
Leon A Bosse
Your Dad was one of the finest, funniest, kindest, smartest men I've ever met. You and your brothers have had the rare privilege of having one of the world's greatest people as your Dad, and I'm sure you have always known that. He is truly like a brother to me and has affected my life for the better since the day we met at Scarborough Temple in July of 1983 and played in the band together, through our years at York University when we almost daily carpooled together, to our 11 years in Comedy on Wry with Scotty Watson and Carol Lempert, and the many years of friendship that followed. He would often call me to chat as he drove home from work in heavy traffic on the 401. My mind is filled with hundreds of memories of you Dad, and the thousands of laughs we shared together.
Tonight I went to a music jam with my kids, Grant and Georji, because I needed to be among friends and with them, and I ended up doing an impromptu tribute to your Dad and sang Van Morrison's Into The Mystic in his honour and memory. I truly love him like a brother and always will. and although we didn't see each other much over the last few years he has always been in my heart and he always will be.
My love and condolences to you, your Mom and your brothers. I'm here if you need anything at all.
Dave Brinton
Your dad was a great guy! He fell in love with your mom from the first sight I'm sure. What an incredible loss to your entire family. Strength and healing.
Lesley Walsh Tibben
Your dad was a great guy. I have very fond memories of him from York and a short time in a sketch group called % Guys Named Moe with Dave Craig and Scotty Watson. My sincere condolences
Nicholas de Kruyff
Oh my. I'm so sorry for your loss. In my entire time at UofT, he was the most pleasant professor I ever had the chance to learn from. He's the only one whom I would visit after class. This one hurts. My condolences
Saurabh Suri
Heartfelt condolences to your family! I had the pleasure of knowing your family as your youngest brother attended the daycare I worked at. Oftentimes your whole family would come in for a visit when it was time to pick him up at the end of the day. Your Father always stopped by the kitchen for a visit after he had dropped B off in his classroom. He was truly a terrific guy!! He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
Mel Mcdowell
I am so very sorry for your loss. He was a big part of my university theatre life. A techie who was always smiling.
Allyson Polidano
I'm so sorry for your loss! You are all in our prayers.
Shane Stagg
Very sorry for your loss. I worked at the UTM campus theatre program. Kevin was a huge support of our TriCampus Theatre meetings. His knowledge, advice and humour meant a lot to everyone. His presence mad U of T a better place on all three campuses. I will miss him.
Peter Urbanek
He will always watch over you & life in your heart. Alec I am so sorry.
Victoria Klein
I's so sad to hear this. I hadn't seen Kevin in many years but I have such fond memories of him from Canada's Wonderland back in the early 90's. He was a gentle, kind man.
M.J. Johnson
Alec. I'm stunned and saddened by Kevin's passing! He was a beautiful kind and caring man who brought laughter with him wherever he went. I will always cherish the moments we spent together.
Keith Fernandes
This is an absolute shock. I am so sorry to hear about this. He was an absolute gem in our community.
Ian J. Albright
Omg, that is so sad and way to early. This guy took me in to make sure I had a roof over my head while looking for an apartment. We laughed a lot together and he was the perfect manager at Wonderland for me. I still have a picture of him and me on my wall as a most memorable moment and good friend from wonderland. Cheers my friend see you on the other side. Really sorry for your loss Alec.
Sylvain Desjardins
Hey Alec. I have no words. I'm so sorry and I'm here if you need anything. Your brother has my number. Message me anytime.
Paz Klith
So sorry for your loss, he was a great man and made a big difference in so many peoples lives.
James Bartlett
Love and hugs to all of you Alec.
KL Dobie
I'll always remember your Dad's portrayal of Pseudolus in the Wexford Collegiate version of "A Funny Thing Happened on the Wat to the Forum" back in 1978 or 1979. I'm so sorry for your loss of this quietly understated funny man...your father and friend.
Pach Intoronto
I'm in shock! I can't believe this. I'm so sorry for your loss. Your dad was one of my favourite teachers at U of T. He was funny, and always there to help you work out any problem you had. He really cared about his students and always did his best by them. Wouldn't have gotten though university without him. Sending you and your family all my love.
Natasha Tsakiris
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Kevin from U of T theatre he was an amazing man.
Sarah Stevenson
I love your wonderful father so very much, Alec. He was a great colleague, collaborator, and my dear friend. We did dozens of shows - large and small- together at UTSC -sometimes with your remarkable mother Lisa - and so enjoyed each other's company always. How we laughed together. He was a joy and a delight, and I will miss him more than I can say. I'm thinking of you, Kyle and Brendan, and of course of Lisa, with love and deep sorrow.
Paula Sperdakos
My heart is broken for you all, my deepest and my most heartfelt condolences go out to all who knew and loved him. He will leave a gap in every person's life who ever met him.
Connie Ray
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David Brinton uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 1, 2024
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It's with the greatest sadness that today we say goodbye to Kevin Wright, my greatest friend.
I could fill several books with the stories and memories of my countless experiences with Kev. Kev was a gargantuan part of my life. We were close to inseparable for almost 20 years and the closest friends for 40 years. He was one of the first people I met when I moved to Toronto in July of 1983. I fell in with Kev, Ross Le Poidevin, and Graham Moore the Sunday that I started attending the Salvation Army Scarborough Citadel. I knew from the moment that I met him that I liked him, and within seconds after that we would be life long friends. We had the same friends because Kevin accepted me immediately and invited me into his circles of friends at church and from high school.
We played in the Salvation Army band together, and sat together in every class we shared at York University in the Theatre program. We spent as much time together that people thought and asked if we were brothers, and when we said "No we're Just friends," they had other ideas! We met Scotty Watson on our first day of first year in Theatre History class and the three of us immediately clicked. Kev and I carpooled daily to York in one of our rust bucket cars from Scarborough together for years. You could see the road through the floor of Kevin's first car! Kev used to joke that if I wore my suede desert boots that it would rain, and every morning that I wore them it rained that day!
We listened to the same music, loved the same movies, we had the same sense of humour. Monty Python, Steve Martin, Carol Burnett, morning cartoons. Music too; Elton John, Billy Joel, the Eagles, James Taylor, funk, soul, r&b and of course Tom Waits' music and Kev took to it like a duck to water. These and many other artists were the soundtrack of our friendship. Some songs make me immediately think of him, and they always will.
Kev and I formed Comedy on Wry with Scotty Watson and then Carol Lempert and we made laughs together for thousands of people for 11 years. We spent hundreds and hundreds of days, thousands and thousands of hours, and shared hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions of laughs together. Some crying too. We saw each other through church, through university, through Comedy on Wry, through relationships, though early mornings, long days, all nighters, meals, gingersnap cookie making marathons, road trips, rehearsals, writing sessions, performances, countless hours singing and laughing, Kevin on piano, me on guitar, through rain storms, snow storms, shit storms, everything imaginable.
When he met Lisa Amaral Wright I breathed a sigh of relief! I never saw him so happy. I was honoured when Kev and Lisa chose a Tom Waits song I recommended for their wedding song, :I Hope That I Don't Fall in Love With You." Kev and Lisa were truly made for each other and as the years passed I never saw him so proud and filled with as much love and joy as when he spoke of Lisa and of his boys.
He was as close to my brother as he could be without us sharing parents or DNA. His mix of kindness, humour, brilliance, dedication, compassion, talent, skill, focus, and good natured mischievousness is like no one I have ever known before or since, Having him in my life brought me unbelievable joy. His death is also the death of part of me. Kev is irreplaceable. Kevin Mark Wright was my brother and I f**king miss him with every fibre of my being and always will. Rest peacefully Kev. If there's a heaven I know you're there right now making everyone's wings and halos shake with laughter. I love you and always will.
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Scott Bloxom posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolences posted on Facebook
Anyone who had the chance to work with this incredible man, was extremely lucky. I am sure glad I got to work with him at the park, and to see him "Ham it up" with Comedy On Wry. A true Gentleman. You will be missed Sir. Very sorry for your loss.
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Gabriella Hamilton posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolences posted on Facebook
Such a beautiful passage for Kevin Paz (see earlier entry) You really hit the nail on the head. He will be truly missed. All day I've been thinking about his hugs, how without fail they'd lift you out of any mood you were in. There's almost nothing I wouldn't give for one of those hugs again. Kevin was so warm, welcoming and supportive. I will forever remember him as a light in this world. He will be so missed. My condolences to his beautiful family and loved ones
C
Caroline Watling posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolences from Facebook
The world is a lesser place without this wonderful soul. I can't imagine who I would be today without all of the support from Kevin over the years. He will be dearly missed by many
K
Karen KC posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolences posted on Facebook
I'm shocked and deeply saddened by this news. Kevin was the heart of LLBT. He kept it running and kept us coming back. He made technical fun. He will truly be missed. Condolences to his family. RIP Kevin
I
Ian Jennings posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolence posted on Facebook
I have been reminiscing over so many memories coming to me about Kevin. I wished that I had pictures of those times. I have some fun memories back at Kingswood and Canterbury theatre @ CWL. I remember Kevin playing a Klingon when Paramount took over the park. He even had an official Klingon language book as he got into his character. I wish that I had stayed in touch with him over the years. This one hurts. Kevin will be truly missed.
L
Lisa AmaralWright posted a condolence
Monday, April 1, 2024
Condolence message via Facebook
From Guy Beaupre Thomas Nowers
Kevin Wright. His passing is such a loss to the student experience. He was a beacon of warm welcome; a sincere and enthusiastic promoter of the theatre to any and all and, in my case, a flexible open-minded and accommodating administrator with me, in my role as Dean of Student Affairs 1998-2011.
What a loss. My sincere condolences go out to his family, his former students and faculty members. So sorry for your loss
B
Barry Freeman (Eulogy at service) posted a condolence
Friday, March 29, 2024
I am a theatre professor at UTSC so I guess I was Kevin's co-worker. But I knew Kevin for 27 years, so I've lost much more than a co-worker. I've lost a teacher, a mentor, a collaborator, a co-conspirator, and most of all a loving and lovable friend.
Sadly I also lost my Mother a month ago. Losing Kevin and my Mom so close together triggered a memory for me of a day, way back in September, 1996. I was a first year Astronomy student at UTSC, and one weekend I dragged Mom along on a tour of campus, and on our tour we swung by the theatre because, you know, I'd done a play once in high school and that was fun. I have a clear memory of coming down into the Leigha Lee Browne Theatre, and coming upon Kevin, standing centre stage, just by himself, waiting for someone, anyone to be curious about theatre. The stories came quickly, as they did, and he wasn't long in outing himself as the Klingon at Canada's Wonderland. It made just the kind of connection Kevin could quickly make, because as it happened, me and my whole family worked at Shopper's Drug Mart and we'd all had the cardboard Klingon promo display of Kevin in the store for ages. We'd met a celebrity. But there I was that day, discovering the theatre that would be my home to this day, with two people who were among my greatest cheerleaders.
And I share this because I know Kevin was a cheerleader to so many in our theatre community. I'm here to tell you, all the hours Kevin poured into our theatre, three decades worth of work, has been more impactful than you can imagine. Lisa has seen it with her own eyes because she's been a member of our community herself, designing beautiful sets for our productions over the years. Kevin was our theatre's problem solver, storyteller, it's knowledge-keeper, it's nerd-in-Chief, it's emotional core, it's beating heart. What was so beautiful about Kev is that he was so fully, authentically, beautifully himself, which meant that he naturally made space for others to show up fully, authentically, and beautifully themselves as well. He did that for almost 30 years, and I've been overwhelmed these last two weeks as the memories, stories, photos flooded in from across the country and beyond.
It's a kind of family, and to Lisa, Alec, Kyle and Brendan, it's a family to which you will always belong. What your dad and your husband built is beautiful, as all the students who came here today will attest. When time comes, I look forward to figuring out how we can best honour Kevin's tremendous legacy. For now, all my condolences and love.
V
Vince Lee posted a condolence
Friday, March 29, 2024
This man is the reason why I was able to get into the theatre program at U of T.
During the audition process the other profs were skeptical because of my lack of performance experience, but he pulled out my course syllabus and showed proof to the others I was ready to put in the work with all the theatre classes I was ready to take.
He taught me everything I know from lighting to set and sound design.
To this day I always look up at lighting grids and figure out if they're using Leco or Fresnel.
He always put up with my daily shenanigans while in class or while working on a show... he always knew I was up to something and he never got mad at me for it because he knew theatre was meant to be fun.
In fact when I had Kevin as my teacher for Technical Production we had to fill out an official questionnaire for UTSC on how it was being taught. Kevin reminded us that our responses were anonymous but whatever comments we write will permanently be on his record.
So I filled out the questionnaire as honest as possible and when it came to leaving final comments I smirked and wrote "Kevin F**kin Rocks" in big letters. Turned in my response and left it.
NOT TOO long after he got the responses from UTSC he asked who wrote "Kevin F**kin Rocks"? And write away he looks right at me. I started chuckling in the green room while pleading my case I said It's true, YOU DO f**kin rock!"
"Vince, you know this will be on mt record forever right?"
"That's perfect! Its honest and UTSC needs to know how great you are" I responded.
He then pondered for a few seconds and "well I guess you're right" with a smile and started class.
Let's just say when it came time to fill out the survey for the following Technical Production course I wrote "Kevin STILL f**kin rocks"
On April 21st, I was driving from Pickering with my wife Bianca and I had a sense/gutt feeling I should swing by UTSC and visit the theatre.
I found my way into campus, down the elevator and into the LLBT.
The space was quiet and I walked through the dark room and I could see a dim light.
All of a sudden I heard my name being called. I literally froze in my path. I heard my name again. I followed the voice through the dark room to end up on stage where there was a lamp and a chair set up for Kevin. And then I saw Barry Freeman, who I haven't seen in years. Without thinking we just hugged it.
In that moment if felt like Kevin was hugging us.
Barry had explained the he also had a gutt feeling to come to the theatre also considering there was no classes happening in the department.
We shared stories about Kevin and out experiences with him and there is NO DOUBT in my mind that Kevin brought us together in this moment.
I took a moment before leaving the theatre and I looked up to the lighting grid above and instead of looking at what lights were there I just think of you Kevin.
Kevin you will be missed by all the lives you've touched and influenced.
You will ALWAYS F**KIN ROCK!
Rest in Paradise
S
Scotty Watson (part 2) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Kevin was open-hearted and caring...a genuinely good person.
For a good number of years we shared the stage as actors and we shared the page as writing partners. He was brilliantly creative and a joy to work with. He kept us all together. Yup. Kevin was the glue that made it all work. Sorry. Gaff tape. No question. He was the Gaff tape that made it all work.
He was also, without a doubt, the most FUN person I've ever met. He mixed kindness and mischievousness in a way I've never seen before or since.
I will miss that crazy Scooby-do laugh...
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Tech at the LLBT at UTSC
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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one of the many happy days in our life together
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Allyson with us at the wedding
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Kevin and our mums walking down the aisle
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Angela Liechti posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
I don't even know where to start...I am beyond heartbroken to learn that we lost one of the most amazing human beings today.
Kevin Wright was my mentor and my friend. I owe so much of who I am to him. I still remember walking into that Theatre and finding his smiling face day after day during my time at UTSC. So many of those days when I felt lost I would think "it's okay because Kev believes in me". And he truly did, more than many, He always made learning fun and he truly helped so many of us grow.
He believed in me, even when I didn't believe in myself...He encouraged all my crazy ideas like my "maquina de musica" as we dubbed it together. He always said I could do anything I wanted and that I didn't have to fit the mould. Because of that I got to do things I never even thought possible.
That is the kind of human Kevin was. Always bringing the best in people.
I remember all his kind and encouraging words. His big hugs and his amazing stories. His passion for his job and for all the people he taught and most importantly the Theatre and his craft. The amazing love he had for his family always shining through.
Kevin touched the lives of so many people and always told stories of alumni, keeping the legacy of everyone who crossed his path alive and I know his memory and his legacy will always be a part of my life. If you were lucky enough to know him in any capacity, you know he cared deeply about you without a doubt.
So much of what I know about Theatre and about being a good Stage Manager (as he would describe it, somewhere between a babysitter and God...) and beyond is because of him. He is the reason I still do what i do today. Thank you Kev.
You will always have a special place in my heart and there will never be a day when I'm not in a tech booth or a theatre looking up at the lights and thinking about you.
My deepest condolences to Lisa, the boys, his family and to anyone who loves and admired Kevin.
Rest easy my friend. You will be sorely missed by many
T
Tailynn Smith-Vetter posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
During my first two years at UTSC I often felt that Kevin was my only friend at the school. He was the first person to see the potential in me for technical theatre and made me believe that I could actually work in this industry. I remember one day in my first year hanging out in the grey space and Kevin called me over to the theatre, he showed me how to use what we called the Bat phone to control the theatre light telling me " I have a feeling you will be around here a lot." What Kevin didn't know was that days before I had been considering transferring to UofA. This is just one of the many ways that Kevin changed my life.
Through online classes and cancelled productions and difficulties with friends and classes and everything in between Kevin was always someone I could just chat to. Anytime I needed a laugh, or to complain he would welcome me into the office with the warmest grin and a joke. And this kindness was extended to absolutely everyone around him; even those that didn't necessarily deserve it.
No matter the problem Kevin would find a way to fix it. I can't tell you how many times I would come to Kevin panicking with a problem and he would know the solution in moments, even if that solution meant more work for him. Through endless Drama Society productioons Kevin still kept faith in our work, supporting and helping us all along the way. For months I spoke to Kevin more than I spoke to my parents,
I am heartbroken that more people won't get to hear Kevin's endless entertaining stories, experience how he was always able to figure out your interest and recommend you the perfect show/band/game, and obtain his massive library of e-books (of which I am a proud holder). Kevin was the father figure in the LLBT for so many of us, the glue that held it together. While it breaks me that this incredible man will not continue to spread his brilliance I am eternally grateful I got to bask in it when I did.
To memories of chats, of QI, difficult professors, Dungeons & Dragons, The Witcher, the hatred of SY, love for your wife and sons, cones of silence, crazy theatre stories, history and everything in between.
S
Sandy Harris posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
I could never been ready for this. Never. Kev made the world a far, far better place. It feels like everything should come to a screeching halt because how could it possibly continue without his laughter. love. joy, compassion, intelligence, and wit.
If ever anything was "unfair" in this world, Kevin's untimely passing is it.
Holding Kevin, Lisa, family, friends tightly in my broken heart
M
Michael Clifton (posted on Facebook) posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
They say only the good die young. It's not always true, but it sometimes is.
My old high school friend, Kevin, passed away this week.
We hadn't seen each other or connected much since high school, really, but Kevin was the kind of person who leaves an indelible mark in your memory.
Wildly fun, energetic, enthusiastic, and creative. He was a loving goof, a genuine nerd and a faithful friend. He was one of our "gang"
He will be missed.
In fact, if you want to see how much a person can be missed for the good they contribute to others' lives - and maybe take some pointers for how you'd like to be remembered in your life - take a look at the messages pouring in on his Facebook page. Kevin touched a lot of lives in profound and meaningful ways.
These are the kind of friends that I am glad I had in high school. My life then would have been far emptier without him.
God speed, Kevin.
A
Allyson Handson posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
May 2, 2023
Tough day. I can't even say that I went to say Goodbye. One of my truly best friends in the world was "remembered" today as a beautiful and touching and sometimes laugh out loud funny memorial service. I wish I had been able to process my thoughts enough to share them with others, and even now I am struggling. It may be some time before I can share how much Kevin has meant to me all of these years. Even when I hadn't seen him for years at a time, we would connect and immediately it was as if we had been together within the week or days just passed. I am in a large way the person I am today because of him. I got told today that even the meter of the stories I tell have distinct similarities. And yes, my detailed accounts that often need to take way more time than most stories for proper context, are a direct result of our relationship and something I cherish.
Feb 29, 2024
I've known Kevin for about 40 years. Met him doing summer theatre in my late high school years. He has always has a special place in my heart no matter how long between visits or conversations. Kev passed suddenly last year. It was April, I think. I'd rather remember birthdays than...Same is true for my parents. I think of Kevin every single day. And I speak of him often. He was an inspiration to so many, and his humour, talents, stories, and love for his family and friends will be remembered as there are people here who knew him. God bless. Miss you tons Kev.
S
Shana Palsetia (former student) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
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Hello Lisa
My upmost love and condolences to you and the kids. I can't even imagine the loss. Kevin was such a soul and the world has lost a wonderful human. I was at LLBT 1997-2002 with Laura, Merika, Melissa etc. I was lucky enough to work in stage management with Kevin on many big shows and travelled with his creative mind to Prague as well.
Here are a couple of pictures you may already have but I wanted to send them to you just in case. I hope the photos bring you some joy as you look over what an impact he had on so many.
He always impressed me with his ability to solve a problem on our meager theatre budget. I'm pretty sure he was the first person to teach me to try using tools (I'm so not that girl). Might have been a mouse sander but hey he got me to do it!
Thank you for giving so much of him to us theatre kids for so many years.
Sending love, light and hugs to you all
P
Paz Part 2 posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
I could list off a million favorite memories of Kev, our first time meeting, bouncing chaotic ideas off each other for hours, the time he convinced me to audition for Ui, spending hours training me in the booth at the theatre, walks to Tim's for coffee, thousands of elevator rides, years and years of office conversations about QI and some of the funniest stories I've ever heard (with voices for every character involved of course)... but I think my favorite memory of Kev will always be his hugs.
I have been hugged thousands of times in my life but nothing has ever given me the warmth or the sense of security the way a Kevin Wright hug did. Always a firm squeeze combined with a "God I missed you kid," or a "hey, you doing OK?". The world never felt more right than when you were in the middle of a Kevin hug. And he always offered them so freely too, not just hellos or goodbyes but whenever he had a chance, even the virtual ones.
I guess what I'm saying is when I think of Kevin, I think of how safe, cared for and cherished those hugs made me feel. That's my favorite memory
M
Micheal Clifton posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Hi Lisa
I am writing about Kevin for the memory book though I have little to offer. I just wanted to say, well, something.
The truth is I have to many memories, and too much variety in them to even know where to begin, but they also all ready just blend together, with emphatic instances in which I see his face starting with a mock-astonished expression (he likes that one) and remember his throaty voice quoting A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum or some other similar production, and usually sharing some unrestrained laughter.
Kevin was part of our regular gang of friends at school. He was tall, a little heavy, a bit awkward, a little nerdy, talented, kind, quick witted, creative. He was effervescent, friendly, funny, outgoing, and good hearted. I hadn't grown up or gone to elementary school together with him as several others had done, but loved him just the same. Within our group we shared time together in and out of school, on trips, and on stage. With day-to-day interaction, and ordinary youthful-absorption, you don't necessarily retain every moment sufficiently, or treasure friends as you should. Over the years, Kevin and I didn't retain contact, other than at least reconnecting on facebook. But he remains in my book of life as a key cast member.
My sincere condolences to all who had the pleasure of having spent much more of their loves with him
R
Rachel Patten posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
I'm feeling pretty devastated over the loss of my uncle. He passed away yesterday evening incredibly unexpectedly.
He was such a lovely human. He was kind and gentle but also super fun and hilarious. He was talented and thoroughly loved.
I didn't get to see him often but every time I did, was a complete joy. He had this ability to connect with people in a way that made them feel seen and valued. He was a light in this world, and he will be incredibly missed.
The grief and the shock of this loss is immense. I keep saying on repeat: the universe got the wrong guy. The world needs him. The world needs his beautiful, big, open-hearted love, his compassion and gentleness, his joy and his immense ability to make everyone he met feel like the absolute most important person in the world.
Every bit of time I spent with him I felt seen and loved and valued; I felt funny and important. Even if it was just a random chance encounter at a thrift store in Belleville. As I'm seeing people's tributes to him. I'm realizing that's how he managed to make everyone feel.
I know the assignment was to contribute a story. Uncle Kevin was so good with stories. I've had this assignment on my heart but I haven't been able to pick one that does justice to who he was. Today, my daughter and I have the flu so we're snuggled reading our books. She's reading Chris Colfer's Land of Stories and I'm reading How to be Famous by Caitlin Moran. I got to a portion of the story where the main character is watching her friend/love interest, a rock star, interact with his fans. The way she describes him leapt off the page and made it so I had no choice but to open my laptop and share this, admittedly lengthy, passage with you.
There is a queue of over two hundred people, and I know. from John's schedule. that he has only an hour here.
But, somehow, he manages to spend time with everyone of the troubled, broken kids who come up to him - signing their records, arms, and diaries, talking to them, telling them they look hot, or beautiful, or - in the case of two kids, a boy and a girl, who have a certain energy about them, "you know what, my darlings - you have an air of destiny about you."
As soon as one person is ushered away, another takes their place, so John does nor see the reactions of those he's just met. But I do.
Most leave smiling - clutching their records like treasure. Many run into the arms of waiting friends, like they've just scored a goal, or met God. Some punch the air. One runs round and round, clearly unable to control their adrenaline high. And one goes over to her waiting parents and collapses, weeping "i love him so much!" as her parents crowd around her, like a deer around a sad Bambi.
....
This is why I feel such love for John - watching what he is doing, with all these fans. They are not meeting him - he is meeting them. He is looking them in the eye, conspiratorially; he is hugging them, like they have imagined hugging him. He is saying, "we meet - at last!" He is telling them they are as wonderful as they feel when they listen to him. He has...completed the circle of putting art out, into the world. He sent those songs out into the world, not knowing who would receive them, and now, one by one, they are coming to him, and saying, "I found it. I get it. It worked. It made a piece of me - just here."
And he is saying "And I see it has made you glorious. Thank you. That was just what it was supposed to do."
I had a very immediate physical response when I read this passage just now. Uncle Kevin's spirit leapt off the page. It was so abundantly clear that I needed to share it with you. Sure, it's not an exact parallel, but it rather effectively points to my favorite thing about my uncle: how he could make everyone feel so loved and valued through everything that he was.
He lived so incredibly powerfully and used his life so effectively. This loss is devastating. The world needs him. He poured so thoroughly into other people's lives that those parts are still here. His wisdom, compassion, gentleness, joy and his open-hearted love are not gone.
All my love
Rachel
L
Laura Bonfigli (former student) posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Gosh I am just so sorry. I am grief stricken in a surprising way given that our paths hadn't crossed much in the last 15 years but his joy, humour, and passion left such an indelible mark on me and so many others.
He taught me how to build risers and hang lights. He showed me how to use saws, nail guns, and lighting boards. We would put on Tom Waits or Les Mis and laugh about gel colours like, my still favorite "bastard amber". He would laugh at my utter inability to understand anything that had to do with millions of buttons and dials on a sound board. I would just dread the climb up alllll those stairs to his fourth floor office- it was cluttered and covered with paper, scripts, programs, and bits and pieces of ephemera he might need, but he would also immediately clean off a chair or surface so we could sit and chat. He'd sometimes drive me to Maple after late rehearsals assuring me it wasn't too far out of his way (when I know it was) just because he didn't want me on the bus that late...even in the small car that he needed to start with a screwdriver at one point. His laugh was infectious and he knew and remembered everything from the most obscure trivia to philosophy to pop-culture and of course technology. I was fortunate enough to work with and for him for 2 years as a work/study student but he supported/championed me all the same whether I was painting the stage floor or starring centre stage.
I remember him speaking with such love for you and his boys. His family meant the world to him and he was always so proud to show you off when you came by. He'd make a point of making sure we were around so we could meet you and hang out even for a few moments. You and the boys were so present in our lives too as he made us feel as though we knew you all so well.
There are just so many more memories but they don't come to the forefront as I am still shocked. I was just talking to Manaal at UTSC about touring with some of my arts students and I made sure to ask if Kevin was still around and would be part of it. She said 'of course' and it was implicit between us that the theatre isn't the same without him.
And that is the ultimate truth. He was a seminal part of my youth and the fabric of that space which helped to shape me and so many others. I am grateful to have crossed his path. So many of us have connected in the last 24 hours to share the news and our collective grief.
I hope you and your sons find peace in his memory and the love that is flowing in from all sides. It can't be enough but there is some joy in hearing just how loved he was and how his legacy lives on in everyone who knew him.
V
Valarie and Pat Lublink posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
The following message read at Kevin's Celebration of Life by his sister Valarie and her husband Pat Lublink
The night before Jesus died, during what we have come to call the last supper, Jesus spoke to his disciples about what was to come. He talked about, Judas' betrayal, Peter's denial and his death. The disciples were troubled and confused. I want to read for you the words Jesus used to comfort them in the hope that they will bring comfort to you.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am John 14:1-3
I want to read one other passage from the Bible. This passage is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible and has been a comfort and encouragement to many. If you know it and want to say it along with me, out loud or in your heart, please feel free to do so. I'm reading Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the path of righteousness
For his names sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadows of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
Forever.
S
Scott Watson posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
I met Kevin on our very first day at York University. They gave us lockers and a crude map of the entire campus with an X where our lockers should be.
Later I'd learn that Kevin was excellent with maps. If fact any kind of detailed puzzle or game, it just came naturally to that delightful brain.
But not OUR lockers.
We walked all over campus. We searched everywhere a locker could reasonably be. Then we searched in places unreasonable. Finally, Kevin reasoned that it was time to search in places unfathomable.
Kevin found an unmarked door.
"I don't thin we're supposed to go in there," I said
Kevin said "Let's try it."
Down a staircase piled with set pieces & lumber debris. Into a basement leading, I think, to another basement. Down a narrow hallway.
Now it was a D&D adventure.
"This can't be it."
"A little further."
In a 1/2 lit hallway, (every other ceiling light was either out or flickering), leading to a machine room, in a place no one in their right mind would put a couple of lockers...Kevin sees treasure.
Of course, the real treasure wasn't the lockers, it was a friendship that lasted for decades.
WE wrote songs together, mostly goofy, sometimes a little bawdy, sometimes quite sweet.
We'd work in this weird little room with a piano Kevin found, and by found I mean Kevin Picked a lock. To Kevin a locked door was just another puzzle.
Kevin introduced me to David Brinton. Sometimes Kevin was our big brother, sometimes our referee. Kevin kept our youthful passions in check, kept it fun, and always kept the creativity flowing and the work happening.
Kevin's comedy writing was SO tight. Our process was collaborative, someone would write a sketch, but we would all gather round and make changes and additions. But I remember Kevin bringing in a sketch called Lawyer Love. We all read it. At the end there was silence.
"Kevin, this is a PERFECT sketch."
No changes, no additions. It was perfect. It was one of our signature sketches. From the brilliant mind of Kevin Wright.
Kevin was solid as a rock and at the same time silly as a squirrel. Brilliantly intelligent and mischievous in a good hearted way.
Kevin was the gaff tape that held us together'
M
Merika Remundo (former student) posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Like many others, I wanted to share my memories of Kevin with you in the hopes that these good memories offer some type of solace during this difficult time
When I stared at UTSC in the fall of 1998, I was a mature student...I was 23 years old, I didn't quite fit in with the "frosh" crowd and defiantly was not accepted by the older students in the program. I kind of kept to myself because I was commuting from downtown to UTSC everyday... I was living with my boyfriend downtown at the time. I tried my hand at theatre in my first year by directing a two-hander in our one act play festival. Kevin encouraged me to direct something and he lent me a stack of books and plays from his office. I chose one. It was a simple play about two people at a bus stop. Kevin walked me through the technical requirements every step of the way. We built the functional lamp post together. It was a simple, beautiful set and I remember Kevin telling me that you don't need fancy sets to tell a story. Going simple is often better. A good lesson indeed.
Then in second year, I was entrusted with directing a full-length play-Judith Thompson's The Crackwalker. It was a difficult play with lots of swearing, violence, and disturbing content. It was an exciting project that came at a very difficult time for me. My boyfriend and I were having issues very much linked to themes in Crackwalker and I left my apartment and requested a move onto UTSC residence. So I am directing a disturbing play while living a pretty disturbing moment in my own life...OK... Kevin helped me through this strange time. How did he do it? Well, he told me funny stories about his time at Wonderland, spoke Klingon, told me jokes... he was Kevin! The biggest gift he gave me was taking time to listen and empathize with what I was going through. He didn't have to do this...caring was in his DNA. When it came time to chose the music for The Crackwalker, Kevin introduced me to Tom Waits. Being from Montreal, I was a big Leonard Cohen fan but I had never heard of Tom Waits. WHAT?! Kevin was shocked and excited! we listened to hours and hours of Tom Waits music in the booth while prepping different things. Some songs stuck a cord and they were used in the show. Sometimes we discussed the meaning behind the songs but mostly just listened to the music. That was Kevin. He cared about people. He cared about art. He cared about his craft. He cared about and loved his family. He talked about you (Lisa) and his baby Alec all the time! You then had other babies and he talked about all the babies all the time too. LOL! I guess what I'm trying to say is that he made a difference in little ways that added up big time. The number of students he influenced, the amount of "life lessons" he taught both inside and outside of the classroom, the amount of work, overtime, blood, sweat, and tears he put into projects...these things cannot be counted. WE are blessed to have known him and through him, you and your beautiful family. You and your boys are his light, his simple, beautiful story. No fancy set here- just love.
Hugs and kisses to you and your beautiful family Lisa...deepest condolences from me and my family in Montreal
J
James Bartlett (Student) posted a condolence
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Probably the hardest part of writing this is just picking one favorite memory to share about Kevin as there are certainly too many to count or even remember. So I will go with one that stuck with me because it's something I don't think anyone else ever told me about myself.
Now Kevin asked me to help him out with an exercise in his Intro to Theatre class he taught every year, The exercise involved having students write down blocking notation and stage direction while actors were rehearsing a scene. . He also had invited Paz to help out as well. He chose what we called ambiguous scenes as the dialogue could be interpreted in almost any way you wanted. Kevin also gave notes in the way a director would so that the student would have to adjust like in a real rehearsal.
So when Paz and I did the scene, slowly over the course of a few different runs, and with Kevin's inspired directorial choices the scene became a heart felt and emotionally charged scene of mistrust, heartbreak and rekindling of love lost. All in the matter of a few short minutes with less than a page of dialogue to work off of. It was a lovely opportunity for myself as while I acted I also did a lot of tech and helped in the theatre, partially because how much I enjoyed working with Kevin and also how much potential he said he saw in me to be able to understand stuff from a technical standpoint as well. So having an opportunity to work on all aspects of my theatrical knowledge, and help him out in the process was such an amazing feeling.
But the part that probably stuck with me the most is what Kevin said when he was talking to me and Paz after the students left.
He said "Wow that was lovely work from the both of you. I wish I could see that side of you more James. As you tend to always get the goofy and funny roles because of course we all know you're goofy and funny and amazing, and that's one of the reasons we love you. But that deep emotional side of you was powerful. I think you should push to try to use that more in your work. Or even in the work that you're already doing. Just because your funny doesn't mean you can't also bring people to tears. And that's why we come to the theatre to be lulled into a comfortable state and also to be hit with the feelings that bring you to your knees. I hope I can see that again from you one day, because if you could harness that ability, I think you could be unstoppable, not just as an actor but as a person. Oh yeah and you also have one of the best shit eating grins I have ever seen"
And I remember that as the first time I ever thought it would be possible for me to actually be successful doing what I love. The first time that anybody saw me as more than just a guy who can make people laugh. And he saw it, he gave me the opportunity to show it, and he wanted me to keep doing it. I don't think I had ever or have ever since that day felt as supported and encouraged as I did then. As well as his way to still end the conversation in a funny way telling me about my shit eating grin. And I think I even channeled what he told me into my character in 10 out of 12 who just happened to be a goofy technician who made people laugh, but had a beautiful monologue about how he had never made anybody cry in a serious way. Which couldn't have been more true to me as a person and as an actor. And every night I did the monologue, whether I knew it or not I believe I was channeling exactly what Kevin told me those years prior. And though it may be silly that role and that character were the first and last time I ever won a baby Oscar (our in house award every year) for my role as E2 in 10 out of 12. I'm still trying to find my way to get back into art and theatre after the pandemic, but the thing that gives me the courage and confidence to keep trying comes a lot from the amazing things just like that, that Kevin instilled in me over the wonderful years I had the pleasure to know and work with him
S
Sherri Helwig (Colleague and friend) uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, March 2, 2024
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Just reeling with the news that Kevin Wright- a colleague and friend who served as production manager for our campus theatre-passed away suddenly yesterday. He was at once one of the kindest and most irreverent souls I have ever met, and I can't begin to imagine the theatre without him.
We had just spent most of the previous day together (as two of the very few people attending a departmental retreat remotely). In an effort to make the most of a difficult situation and to simulate the social aspect of the in-person retreat we were missing, he and I chatted via text about our kids and life (and, for that matter, Trojan Priestesses- if you know, you know). One of his last messages to me was, of course, an offer of support: "my ears are always available." That was almost as lovely as one of the big hugs he normally used in place of saying "hello"
There will soon be many warm and hilarious stories shared in the celebration of Kevin's Life. I'm just going to share this favorite photo from decades ago as a tribute: It shows Kevin and his sons sitting around my dinning room table, and my son Taggart showing his unrestrained delight as they guide him in his first ever Dungeons & Dragons game. It was so quintessentially Kevin: rearranging his schedule to take an afternoon off during busy time (which I only learned about later) to use his gifts of story telling and laughter to support a friends' son who was sad that he didn't know anyone who wanted to play D & D
Hail and farewell, my friend. You will be forever missed.
A
Aaheli Mukherjee (former student) posted a condolence
Saturday, March 2, 2024
Dear Lisa and Family
I have been trying to write this for days, but I couldn't figure out how to do Kevin's impact on my life justice in words. Honestly, I still can't. But I feel like I owe him, his life and his legacy words on paper so that it can be passed down on generations. Because if there was someone whose life of love and compassion deserves to be written in the history books, it's him.
Anyone who knows Kevin knows that he was a story teller- it was his way of honouring each moment and celebrating them by sharing them. And I am Privileged to have stories of him, with him - that I get to continue passing on. The legend of the man with the biggest heart.
Kevin set a standard so high for love and devotion that it feels impossible to meet but ridiculous not to try. Because if you didn't want love like that, didn't adore your family like him - then what was the point? He spoke of his wife and his family with such pride and excitement that it was hard to not love them too. "Lisa did...", "that day with the boys...", "we were...". It was so clear to anyone who spoke to him that they were his greatest source of joy.
He was one of the kindest people I've ever known. I once offhandedly mentioned how I was upset about warping a water bottle my dad got me as a present, and his immediate response was to walk me down to the shop and fix it for me. Even you didn't know you needed his help; he was there to give it selflessly. He gave me, just a wide-eyed theatre loving kid, a shot purely based on his gut instinct. He allowed me the opportunity to learn from him, from his theatre and grow as a theatre maker and collaborator. He gave his time and hugs and stories and knowledge and love to all those who needed it. And the most incredible truth is that this isn't just my story, it's so many of ours. We are lucky to have known the big man with the biggest heart.
In my time at UTSC and every time I've gone back, I needed to go back to the LLBT. It was my first true home in the city- a place I felt safe, welcome and joy. I always knew that Kevin was the beating heart of that theatre. He gave my home life. Now I realize, he wasn't just the heart of the theatre, of my home. He was home itself - safe, welcome and joyous.
Sending so much love to you and your family
R
Rob Wells uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
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This Picture (and many more like it) is how I will remember my good friend Kevin Wright.
...talented, funny, humble, kind.
A great human being.
He taught me that it's OK to act like a goofball and have a great time doing it.
One of my favourite memories of Kevin was seeing him flipping out and throwing papers into the air from the booth at Canada's Wonderland as the band that I was a part of (with Bob Basa, Fritz Kraai, James Bryan Mccollum, Paul James Bannerman, Dave Patel, Tim Gittens and others) decided to rework the choreography of the intro (unannounced) to the musical show at International Showplace. It was the last show of the year before Wonderland closed for the season, and we got into a lot of trouble for our antics, but it was worth every penny. We later laughed about that moment many times.
Kevin and I shared a few stages together as I musically preformed with him in the improv group "Comedy On Wry"
I last bumped into him a few years ago while walking through the CNE, and we laughed once more.
Gone too soon.
I will miss you Kevin Wright!!!!
Sending love to the family!
M
Mel McDowell posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Dearest Lisa, Alec, Kyle, and Brendan
It is with such great sadness that I received the news of Kevin's passing!
During the years that Brendan was attending Little Ark Daycare, I was fortunate enough to interact with your beautiful family regularly- and your family deeply touched my heart.
Kevin was a force larger- and much nicer- than life itself! He adored his family and always told me stories of what you were all up to when he would stop into the kitchen at LADC after dropping Brendan off before he went to work. Kevin was always so kind, caring, funny....If you were a friend of Kev's, you were a friend for life!
It was an honour and a privilege to know you and your family and to be of service to you.
My heart is heavy for your loss and sorrows and I pray your pain will quickly be quelled by your love for him and the infinite multitude of happy, loving family memories.
My heart is with you all, with sincere sympathy
Mel McDowell
R
Ria Mandanas (former student) posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
My name is Ria Mandanas and I was one of Kevin's students from 2010 to 2014 at UTSC. I just wanted to let you and your family know the tremendous impact he had on me during my time there. He made me feel welcome and included in the theatre and he was always sharing uplifting stories with us. The other day, I realized that there were things that I still have to this day that he shared and taught- like his huge collection of ebooks that I got so excited and giddy for, or realizing that how I coil electrical wires was the technique he taught me so they don't tangle easily. I am so grateful that I met him and I will always remember his jovial laugh and how caring he was.
My heart goes out to you and your family
H
Helen Hao Wang (former student) posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Kevin was one of my theatre teachers at the University of Toronto Scarborough Leigha Lee Browne Theatre. Every time I went to the theatre, I saw his big smile, hear him laugh, and he always has fun and interesting stories to tell and has big big hugs for me and for everyone.
Kevin and Colin made sure a student like me, who comes from another country from another culture felt welcomed to LLBT. They made sure that I was being helped, I had been heard, that I had fun and I learned lots. They made sure there was a space for me in LLBT and made me believe there was a space outside LLBT for me too.
During the Covid lockdown times, every time I want to fell joy and happiness, I will always look at the videos of theatre class performances that I have done in the LLBT. The time in LLBT was the most fun times I had at UTSC, and I miss it.
Thank you Kevin for generously sharing your love and care, your passion for theatre, and your fun with me. Now with my company Haois, I could share the fun, love and passion for the theatre with my students. I hope my students' joyous faces will bring you a smile, RIP Kevin, I will be missing you.
Sending lots of love, sympathies and condolences to your family and loved ones.
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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The big catch!!
C
Carol Lempert (posted on facebook) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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In 1986 I moved to Toronto to get my MFA.
AS part of getting my graduate degree I was a theatre history TA. This is where I met my beloved Scott Watson and two other talented men Dave Craig and Kevin Wright. We were al students together.
Soon after we graduated we started a sketch comedy troupe called: Comedy on Wry.
Kevin was our magic bullet. So Talented.
He wrote sketches. He wrote music. He played music. He performed. He built sets. He hung lights. He built our sound board.
He could pack a car with props and not waste an atom of space. He could fix anything with a roll of duct tape and a hot melt glue gun. He was in fact the glue that held us together.
And he had a booming wonderful laugh.
When he married the beautiful Lisa Amaral Wright he invited Scotty to host at the wedding.
I adored him.
Kevin died suddenly from a heart attack this week. I
I'll treasure all of the time I was lucky enough to spend with him on stage, in the rehearsal room, in our kitchen eating meals between rehearsals, and in the car driving all over the wilds of Ontario.
My heart goes out to Lisa and their children.
If I had the power, I'd turn the lights off on Broadway today, because the world is a much darker place without him
C
Colin Harris (eulogy at service) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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Hi Everyone. I'm Colin. Now. I haven't met all of you. but I spent more of my time with Kevin over the last 9 years than I did with nearly anyone else, so I'm sure I've heard a story or two about you, and I would expect you've heard one or two about me, Kevin and I worked together, but he was also one of my closest friends and confidantes. One of the first people I would call with news, be it good, bad or just interesting. He helped me plan my first date with my now wife, I had the ring mailed to his house before we got engaged (my wife and I, Kevin was already taken), he was the first person I called when there were complications with our first pregnancy and was amongst the first I told when we knew we were expecting a son (something he had a lot of experience with). This is really the first major life event I'm facing without him, and I would love to hear a related or just barely related story right about now.. But instead you all get one from me. Back when I was at wonderland...no wait that's one of his.
But really, how do you distill a person into a single story. I could tell one about how great his hugs were but that's not all he was. I could tell one about how he liked to strike his Zeus pose after he'd grown out his hair over lockdown but that doesn't capture him enough either. He was a loving father and would excitedly tell me about what his boys were doing, what they had had for dinner or how their D&D game was going but he was also a great listener and was just as happy to hear those same things from me. He was a great piano player, and made fantastic paper props and our lighting paperwork got to the point we couldn't tell who was designing a show since our choices were so similar but none of that does him justice as he was that and more. He was a friend, so I'm telling a much smaller story instead. Over lockdown we had of course still been seeing each other on zoom and Teams but not in person. We didn't see each other in person for nearly 5 months, the longest that had happened since the day we'd met. But I had to get some equipment to him, so we met in a parking lot in Pickering. It was a warm day and we got coffee and leaned against our cars and just talked. We'd talked nearly every day, and it wasn't like we had anything new and pressing but it was good to really be together again. Most of the time what we talked about wasn't important, but we never ran out of things to say. All to soon, we had to part ways and despite the pandemic restrictions, he was out of my bubble, we hugged. Even when I was on parental leave we never went that long again without getting together.
After I'd left, and we'd said our goodbyes, about 5 minutes later he called me and started with "so as I was saying". I'm a bit agnostic, but I like to think that one day we'll meet again and he'll start with, " so before we were so rudely interrupted" and we'll pick up where we left off.
I miss him. I'll continue to miss him. But I know I was privileged to get to spend so much time with him. So one last time I'll say, evening sir, all the best and love to the fam.
L
Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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Kevin, Lisa and the boys
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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Kevin's silly side
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Lisa AmaralWright uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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Kevin and his boys
S
Scott Dutrisac (eulogy at service) uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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I am Scott and I worked very closely with Kevin at the Leigha Lee Browne Theatre for just about 10 years. Outside the UTSC, we tinkered on a few projects as well- form building a deck at the house in Keswick, to collaborating on shows in Port Colborne along side Lisa, and of course with Alec, Kyle, and Brendan excitedly in tow. Ove the years, we would joke about our quirky relationship - colleagues, yes, but also something else in the space between child, sibling, or spouse. It really depended on the day, but regardless, it was unique, priceless and lasting.
Given who Kevin was, I thought it would be good to tell a story today. I realize there probably aren't many stories that you haven't heard at least once. There's the one about building a pipe organ out of an inflatable Santa, or the many times the Science Building rained on our parade, sometimes with actual sewage, the time I convinced him that putting 2-tons of gravel on stage was a good idea... I think there's still some kicking around at the LLBT. There are so many big stories, but Kevin, as large a character as he was, also had a way of penetrating into the tiniest spaces in life- the places in between the big stories, the punctuation between the exciting phrases of the larger story. So, I'd like to tell you one of the little stories, the tiny spark that lit the fuse on the Kevin-bomb that shaped my world- my first day of work at UTSC.
Kevin was touring me around campus through the maze of buildings and somehow we got onto the topic of how old I was. He said "Well, during the interview, we couldn't ask how old you were, but I could tell you're not too old because you were swimming in that suit. So, you're maybe 22.23?" I replied something to the effect of "Don't freak out, but I'm actually 19". This was the time that Kevin was recovering from alopecia. f all of his hair hadn't already fallen out, it would have at that moment. But, he rolled with it - surely knowing that there was much to be taught to this young punk who had been glued to his side.
Reflecting on this, now, nearly 20 years later, I see just how much of an influence he had during that very impressionable period of my life. Kevin taught me that it was okay to be weird and expressive, to be a bit of a nerd. He opened my eyes to the vast worlds of music, comedy, and musical comedy. I watched how he cared about people and realized that this was his magic - he cared about everyone he met so completely, and so individually. His propensity for caring about others often got in the way of actual work, which at times was frustrating -but I could never stay annoyed at him for very long, because he was just made of such great stuff- he'd always have me back to laughing or learning in no time.
After I left UTSC and moved to Ottawa, we remained in touch - I was honoured to have him and Lisa at my wedding last year. During our regular phone calls, Kevin would give me all the updates from UTSC, the gossip, ant the technical headaches and achievements. He would also make sure I was up to speed with the latest videos from Adam Savage, OI, or Only Connect. He kept up with my academic career, and strived to understand what I was up to - chiming in with his own experiences and knowledge of engineering and science. His curiosity and excitement lead him to know so much about so many things, a talent we've a; relied on in one way or another over the years. As our lengthy phone calls would wind down, he would always sign off the same way, saying "Goodbye my friend".
I know I'll continue to discover even more ways Kevin helped to shape the adult that I've grown up to be. Kevin, thank you for blessing my life with your presence. I will miss you dearly and remember you fondly. Goodbye my friend.
D
Department of Arts, Culture and Media at UTSC AmaralWright posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Remembering Kevin Mark Wright
Kevin Mark Wright, Production Manager for ACM and beloved member of our department passed away suddenly on April 19, 2023. Our ACM community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners, is only beginning to come to terms with this immense loss. We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and loved ones.
Kevin is remembered by all who knew him as a warm and bighearted person. For faculty members, he was helpful and collegial. For staff, he was supportive, thoughtful. and friendly. Foe students, he was a mentor and a dear friend. He had an inviting personality, a boisterous sense of humour, and delighted in sharing his stories and, above all, to listening to everyone. At the Leigha Lee Browne Theatre, his second home for more than two decades, he transformed the stage and sparked the imaginations of generations of students.
We morn the loss of this vibrant soul and honour his contribution to our community.
C
Connie Ray posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Once upon a time, I went to see my youngest at university.
While waiting for them to come back to the rehearsal/makeup space at U of T SC, a lovely man with a smile that could melt ice came in and said to me " you must be the mama" I laughed and said "and you must be Kevin"... This is the moment that sprang to mind when asked recently for the moment I will always remember about this amazing teacher/colleague/friend/husband/father/son/brother/inspiration after his sudden, unexpected heart wrenching passing recently. After speaking to several people about their moment I realized my story was their story as it doesn't matter how long or how well you knew Kevin, usually referred to as Kev, it always felt like it was forever, his smile and laugh was something everyone will never forget. You always felt like you've known each other forever and he could always make you laugh. He had incredible taste in music and could hold a conversation about anything. He loved and was so proud of his family, especially Lisa his lovely wife and his 3 magnificent sons. He was the male figure my youngest needed while he was away at UTSC and he and his wonderful family adopted him and assured that if he couldn't come home for the holidays they had somewhere to be. They were not just friends, they were family and always will be. My heart breaks for everyone who was blessed enough to know Kevin and the huge loss his passing has created. This afternoon will be difficult and we will stand tall in remembrance and respect for all he was and will continue to be for all of us. Blessings to his family and if you need anything you have but to ask and we will do all we can to help and if you knew Kevin you know this means you cause everyone he met was family. Much love always, Paz's Mama
R
Ross LePoidevin posted a condolence
Thursday, October 19, 2023
How do I begin to sum up a man who I have known all my life? Kevin was the most genuine person you would ever meet. He was a gentle giant. He was a compassionate and caring person to all. His humour was beyond anything I have ever known and he made me laugh every day we were together. He was an amazing story teller who used facial expressions in theatrical ways like no other. He was a devoted husband, father, brother and son and the best friend anyone could ever have. He was my encourager. We checked in on each other regularly just to chew the fat and to see how we were doing. Often, we enjoyed talking about historical oddities we had found out about world war 2 air craft and ships. We grew up together attending the Salvation Army Scarborough Citadel Corps. We attended Sunday school and were in the junior band together where we shared many special times.
We were also very involved in scouting from Cubs to Scouts and Ventures. We found a love for camping in the outdoors. I could tell you many stories, good and bad about our camping experiences but that would take a month. Both our fathers were our Scout leaders so we always had to be on our toes. When we returned home from our camping trips. our poor mothers had to deal with some very stinky camping gear and clothes. One time our parents would not sit with us on the subway coming home because of our stench. Over the years, we had developed a love of games, both computer and board games. We would regularly get together with other friends in his room at home or later his basement apartment and enjoy different games for hours. We devoured pizza on breaks often experimenting with toppings much to the chagrin of the delivery guy, as it would stink up his car.
We always kept in touch throughout our College and University years even though we could not always get together. Before long, I was telling Kevin I was getting engaged to Heidi and wanted him to be part of our wedding. 8 years later, I was happy to be part of his wedding along with our 4 year old daughter who was Kevin and Lisa's flower girl. We both ended up with 3 children each and our families have grown very close over the years. We are Aunties and Uncles to each others children.
In 2018, we joined them in having a trailer at the Pleasant Bay Family camp and have had many wonderful memories there. I am know very grateful for the times we had together at the trailer. The swimming, canoeing, fishing, camp fires and of course board games. We always enjoyed meals together with Sunday brunch being the highlight.
This has been a huge shock and has put a huge hole in my life that can never be filled. I along with my family will remember you the rest of our lives. You were One in a Million!
Farewell my brother and friend, until we meet again.
T
Tamara Masa V posted a condolence
Thursday, October 19, 2023
My name is Tamara and Kevin was a dear friend to me in the theatre while I was in my undergrade and far beyond. I am heartbroken hearing the news and I wanted to share my favourite memory of Kevin with you.
My favourite memory of Kevin was sitting together in his messy (yet organized for him) little nook of an office with all of his memorabilia from the years past. He began with a story about his time working at wonderland and then we some how ended up talking about my kobo (which at the time had no books on it). He immediately pulled out a USB stick with over 5000 different books on their - from classics to fan fiction. After talking for 2 hours about nothing relevant to the production we were working on at the time, we ended the conversation with him telling me to come back tomorrow for more banter and light hearted chats. And while I didn't get my answer to the production question I was looking for, I came out of that office with so much more insight into the other topics and useful tips and tricks that I never saw coming - including 5000 new kobo books. Kevin always left me with thousands of stories that would bright up my day (figurately and literally).
Before I left to Vancouver in January, Kevin came to a goodbye brunch with a few of my favourite people from (UTSC) and after everyone had parted and it was just Kevin and I, he said to me 'call me anytime you need. No, seriously kid, it can be a tough world but remember you are not alone.' And those words will reverberate in my brain for years and years to come because those words helped me every single time I felt lonely without any friends in a new city.
I sent my condolences, prayers and respect and I wish that Kevin memories forever brings smiles to everyone's faces, as he did for those around him.
S
Scott Hill posted a condolence
Thursday, October 19, 2023
I have struggled for days to find the words, but there are none.
No mere words could properly sum up Kevin. They cannot sum up the heart warming silliness, he never outgrew or the devotion and love to his family and friends. They cannot describe the dedication to his work and students or the joy he brought into every room.
Maybe if I had the ability to tell a Kevin story, I might find the words. Most of you know what a Kevin story is. A story you may have...... OK probably had heard before. But yet, you got hooked listening to every detail. Even the stories you were in, you eagerly awaited the conclusion to hear what happened to you.
Those stories are Kevin - Taking the time to connect, share a piece of advice, a smile or a laugh. And those stories that still play in my head, character voices and all, kept me company this past week. Kevin will remain with us all in those stories.
As for me, the words that stand out are LOVE and JOY. Love for a man who gave so much love to all he met, and joy being what he brought to the word.
I miss you Kevin, and I know that I am a better person for having been your friend.
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Oriel Horner posted a condolence
Thursday, October 19, 2023
Most of you here today only knew Kevin in his adult years. As one of his older sisters, I had the joy and privilege of knowing and loving him as he was growing up. Kevin was my much loved baby brother. The year I turned 10, my mother came home from the hospital with a beautiful baby boy in her arms, wrapped in a soft yellow blanket. I sat, with my 2 older sisters, on the sofa, eagerly waiting to see him. To my shock and delight, she walked directly to me and placed Kevin in my arms. Maybe this was to nip in the bud any sibling rivalry - as I had been the baby for almost 10 years. She needn't have worried. As you all are aware - to know Kevin was to love him. Although, I must say I always did feel a tad smug that I got to hold him first and, like maybe I would maybe get to be his favourite.
As i share a few memories of Kevin, as a child, I think you will notice the similarities, in so many ways to the Kevin you knew as an adult.
Kevin's love for reading developed early. Long before he knew his ABC's, he would lie in his crib in his doctor Denton sleepers, turning the pages of a batman comic, pointing to his favourite words and dramatically declaring: POW! BAM! CRASH!
As a baby he loved to have his back rubbed to help him fall asleep. As he got a bit older, he would often fall asleep listening to one of his favourite books - the Dr. Suess Sleep book - being read, Kevin's love for the sounds of words and the drama they could create became evident when he was a young child. The sleep book was read to him so many times that he could recite long passages from memory he loved making the sound of the words create pictures when he quoted: Up at Herk-Heimer Falls, where the great river rushes. And crashes down crags in great gargling gushes, The Herk-Heimer Sisters are using their brushes. Those falls are just grand for tooth - brushing beneath If you happen to be up that way with your teeth.
When Kevin was little he loved hotdogs - long before his baby hands could hold a hotdog bun properly. He used to eat his hotdogs with elastic bands around the bun, so the wiener wouldn't fall out.
When I was in grade 8, I took Kevin to school with me for a half day, even though I had the meanest strictest teacher in the school. I wanted all the kids to see what a cool little brother i had. Kevin sat there taking everything in and missing nothing. He even made the miserable old teacher smile and at recess everyone wanted to play with him. He was just 3 years old!
When Kevin was in grade 1 the teacher handed out a slip of paper to everyone in the class and asked them to write down the name of their best friend. Do you know that EVERY child in the class (other than Kevin himself) said that Kevin was his best friend!
This wonderful, too good to be true, little boy, grew into the funnies, kindest, most amazing man. We are all devastated by Kevin's death and will miss him immensely.
The other day, my 5 year old granddaughter asked me: 'Grandma, is Uncle Kevin in Heaven now?' When I responded 'yes', she said: 'then, I think, God must be laughing'. I asked her ' why would you say that?' her response? 'Because Uncle Kevin knew how to make everyone laugh!'
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Wade N posted a condolence
Thursday, May 4, 2023
I regret hearing of the passing of Lecturer Kevin Mark Wright. He taught me at UTSC in technical production in 2004-05. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his loved ones.
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Soo planted a tree in memory of Kevin Wright
Thursday, May 4, 2023
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For Kevin. Forever in my heart. Thank you for having been my friend. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Diriye Hassan posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
The best thing I can say about Kevin Wright is that there never was a moment where seeing his face or talking to him didn't make my day better. If I bumped into him in the hallways of UTSC on a bad day, my day instantly became better. If I popped my head into his office on a good day, he made my day great. He carried himself with a grace and a burning curiosity that I appreciated more and more as I moved further and further away from campus. Every time we talked, it grew into a free-flowing conversation — it could start at a question about lighting and end up with using sitting down watching Monty Python clips. No matter how busy, stressed, or occupied he was, he never allowed that to seep into his interactions with others; he never projected that stress onto others.
Thank you Kevin. I promise we will all protect and carry your stories, kindness, and friendship with us wherever we go.
To Lisa, his children, and the rest of his family, I'm sending you all my love and prayers.
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Uwe Schwarzkopf posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Fare thee well my friend, fare thee well.
Thank you for Wexford, D&D, CNE, Movie Premieres, Yearbook, Making movies, Mr. Greenjeans, Paintball, Canoe trip, Eatons, Movie nights, Monty Python, Halloween, Gorilla, Porcupine in the dark, QI, Scarborough Bluffs, Helmet workshop, Unser Mutti, Bruce in the Shower, We didn’t start the fire, Klingons, Drumming, Totem Pole, Making props, all the Joy and Laughter and so much more.
I will always cherish the memories of all the stories created with you, as they have contributed greatly to the person I am today.
Fare thee well my friend,
Fare thee well.
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Angelina Silva donated to HEART STROKE FOUNDATION ONTARIO
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
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Kathy Patton posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Dear Lisa and boys,and all the family
So sorry for your loss of such a young man.
Sending our sincere sympathy and thinking of everyone at this difficult time.
Earl and Kathy Patton
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Gabriella Hamilton Klien lit a candle
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
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Kevin was a Mentor and friend throughout my time at UTSC. He was such a considerate person, always willing to listen, to lend a hand or an ear, whatever necessary. He cared deeply about the theatre program and worked hard with the rest of the staff to give and do more for us theatre kids.
What I will miss most about Kevin is hearing his stories, his boisterous laugh, and his warm hugs. Kevin always lit up the room with his bright eyes when telling a story. He delivered each story with such passion, as if it was the first time he spoke it. When it came to his family, it was a gift to witness how much he loved them by watching his face throughout his retellings. If something was funny Kevin's laugh filled the rooms he entered. They were boisterous, infectious and caused people to laugh even harder.
After hearing about Kevin's passing, I reached out to many peers, and just hearing about the impact he had on everyone spoke mountains about Kevin and how beautiful his soul was.
I know for myself, if I was feeling down and Kevin was around, he wouldn't hesitate to pull me aside and allow me to vent. He would encourage me, reassure me, give me resources if need be, and let me know if ever I needed someone to talk to and he was around, I could go to him.
The last time I saw Kevin was a random day in a grocery store in Oshawa. I remember hearing my name, turning around and seeing him, I was instantly filled with joy. We caught up for a bit, shared a hug, and then said our goodbyes.
Kevin will be so missed.
To Lisa, the boys, and Kevin's family you have my deepest condolences. Sending you so much love in your time of grief.
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David Bracegirdle posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Kevin was a wonderful man, an immeasurable force of nature who radiated warmth and actively made UTSC into a place where students, staff and faculty felt they belonged. You felt instantly comfortable in his company, and he always remembered to ask after family and check in with how you were, and how you were really. He was so generous and demanded little in return, and he was always so proud of Lisa and the boys. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and communities who have been effected by Kevin's loss.
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Russell and Kathryn uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
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Kathryn and Lisa have been friends since university where they were both in the same scenic design program. We met Kevin when they were dating and hit it off immediately. Kevin had a way of making you feel at ease right off the bat. He always had a smile on his face and was quick to laugh and great at spinning a yarn. I remember him telling us stories of different performers and behind the scenes happenings from when he worked at Canada’s Wonderland.
Living in different cities we didn’t get a chance to visit as often as we would have liked, but Lisa and Kevin and the boys would make a point of coming to our Valens picnics whenever we had them to catch up and visit.
One memory that stands out was when we were visiting Lisa and Kevin, I think it was when they lived in Keswick, and Kevin got on the keyboard and belted out some Tom Waits. That was the first time I’d heard him play and didn’t realize what a talented musician he was.
Lisa, Alec, Kyle, Brendan - we are so sorry for your loss.
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Cheryl & Lois Fallis posted a condolence
Monday, May 1, 2023
Kevin was a wonderful fellow, very warm and full of life. His hugs were epic; you felt engulfed with love and caring. His and Lisa's marriage was a blessed meeting of hearts and souls, blessed further with their three boys. He shall always be thought of with love. He shall always be missed. May his memories bring sweetness and warmth to all that have known and loved him.
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Chai Chen uploaded photo(s)
Monday, May 1, 2023
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A photo of Kevin at UTSC X-mas party 2019
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Jasmine Scott posted a condolence
Saturday, April 29, 2023
Kevin was my professor at UTSC and I was TERRIFIED to go up to the booth. It was an ongoing joke that I was going to do 7 years of university and never go up. But as I’m sure you know where this is going, Kevin made me feel so safe and comfortable that I was able to do it!
And that’s a perfect way to describe how Kevin made people feel,
Safe and comfortable.
On my wedding day, I had arranged pictures to be taken of us at UTSC in the theatre. And there was Kevin letting me in and helping on the day. It made my wedding day complete and it’s all thanks to him.
Kevin will be so missed by everyone.
To the true dad of the theatre!
Lots of love to the family.
Jasmine Scott
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Lora Senechal Carney posted a condolence
Thursday, April 27, 2023
The very first time Kevin came to a meeting of UTSC's Cultural Affairs Committee, I announced that Mr. Wright had come along, and he had. He contributed so much, and with such good humour. We were so glad to have him with us.
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Shirley Davy posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
Ted and Shirley Davy would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the Wright family in this time of sadness. Kevin was an amazing man and will be truly missed by all who knew him. Sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers !!!
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Rosanna Horner uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, April 26, 2023
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Forever in our hearts Kevin
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Anonymous planted a tree in memory of Kevin Wright
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
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For Kevin whose spirit lives in our hearts. Love, Peeter and Victoria Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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David Townend posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
How can one sum up the life of someone in a single page?
You can’t.
On April 19th, my best friend Kevin Wright was taken from us – far too soon. Although I first met Kevin in Boy Scouts, we really became friends in High School, performing in various plays and in the school band. Later we made school movies together, wrote plays together, watched perhaps a thousand movies together, rented perhaps even a thousand more together, experienced many joys together, laughed together, and yes even cried together. In our 20s, feeling very “grown up”, we moved out from our parents’ and had our first apartment together, and were at each other’s Weddings together – Kevin being my Best man, and helping – and succeeding – to keep me focused and ready to face this new chapter.
Yet, that was what Kevin was all about.
Helping.
There isn’t a person who knew him that he didn’t help in one way or another. He was always there for you. To guide, to assist, to advise, to share, to be a shoulder to hold and to cry on, and yes, to pick up the pieces. Who, what, when, where. It didn’t matter, that was Kevin’s nature. He touched so many lives – and we are all the better for it. Each of us all gained a little bit of Kevin from this, and, part of him is still in all of us. Kevin lives on in all of us.
“I’ve heard it said, that people come into our lives for a reason…”
That was Kevin, that is Kevin.
I love you, my friend. I miss you, my friend.
David Townend
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Dave Brinton posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
I could fill several books with the stories and memories of my countless experiences with Kev. Kev was a gargantuan part of my life. We were close to inseparable for almost 20 years and the closest friends for 40 years. He was one of the first people I met when I moved to Toronto in July of 1983. I fell in with Kev, Ross LePoidevin, and Graham Moore the first day that I started attending the Salvation Army Scarborough Citadel. I knew from the moment I met him that I liked him, and within seconds after that that we would be life long friends. We had the same friends because Kevin accepted me immediately and invited me into his circles of friends at church and from high school.
We played in the SA band together, and sat together in every class we shared at York University in the Theatre program. We spent so much time together that people thought and asked if we were brothers, and when we said “No, we’re just friends,” they had other ideas! We met Scotty Watson on our first day of first year in Theatre History class and the three of us immediately clicked. Kev and I carpooled daily to York in one of our rust bucket cars from Scarborough together for years. You could see the road through the floor of Kev’s first car! Kev used to joke that if I wore my suede desert boots that it would rain, and every morning that I wore them it rained that day!
We listened to the same music, loved the same movies, we had the same sense of humour. Monty Python, Steve Martin, Carol Burnett, morning cartoons. Music too; Elton John, Billy Joel, the Eagles, James Taylor, funk, soul, r&b and of course Tom Waits. I introduced Kev to Tom Waits’ music and Kev took to it like a duck to water. These and many other artists were the soundtrack of our friendship. Some songs make me immediately think of him, and they always will.
Kev and I formed Comedy on Wry with Carol Lempert and Scotty Watson and made laughs together for thousands of people for 11 years. We spent hundreds and hundreds of days, thousands and thousands of hours, and shared hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions of laughs together. Some crying too. We saw each other through church, through university, through Comedy On Wry, through relationships, through early mornings, long days, all nighters, meals, ginger snap cookie making marathons, road trips, rehearsals, writing sessions, performances, countless hours singing and laughing, Kevin on piano, me on guitar, through rain storms, snow storms, shit storms, everything imaginable.
When he met Lisa I breathed a sigh of relief! I never saw him so happy. I was honoured when Kev and Lisa chose a Tom Waits song I recommended for their wedding song, “I Hope That I Don’t Fall In Love With You.” Kev and Lisa were truly made for each other and as the years passed I never saw him so proud and filled with as much love and joy as when he spoke of Lisa and of his boys.
He was as close to my brother as he could be without us sharing parents or DNA. His mix of kindness, humour, brilliance, dedication, compassion, talent, skill, focus, and good natured mischievousness is like no one I have ever known before or since. Having him in my life brought me unbelievable joy. His death is also the death of a part of me. Kev is irreplaceable. Kevin Mark Wright was my brother and I fucking miss him with every fucking fibre of my being and I always will. Rest peacefully Kev. If there’s a Heaven I know you’re there right now making everyone’s wings and halos shake with laughter.
- Dave Brinton
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Autumn (Olivia) Rennie posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
I remember returning to UTSC for a second undergraduate degree in theatre, years ago. With my intentions originally to attend medical school, it was a decision that shocked many, and heading into that school year, I wondered if I would fit in with the Scarborough theatre community. It was during my first term that I met Kevin, as a student in his Technical Production class. Kevin never failed to support me in my decision, make me feel embraced by the school community, and beyond all - cultivated my love for theatre production. In those early days, sitting by myself in the theatre 'gray space' eating lunch or studying, I remember Kevin passing by on the way to his office and never failing to ask me what I was reading, offer to lend me some epic adventure novels, or provide encouragement for my hard work in his class and others. Today, I am pursuing a career in the arts, in large part because of the kindness Kevin showed me from Day 1 at UTSC. Kevin - there's no way I could ever thank you enough for the impact you made on my life, and countless others. I miss you so incredibly much. You will never be forgotten.
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Cathy, Nav, Brooke, Taylor - Family uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 24, 2023
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Family Easter Saturday April 8, 2023 and celebrating birthdays.
Little did we know that this day would be our last with you Kevin. ❤️
A million memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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Brittany Lemick posted a condolence
Monday, April 24, 2023
Kevin was a little bit of everything. I met him at University of Toronto when I was studying theatre. 18 years old and determined to take on the world. Kevin was the theatre. He was all things to his students. Devoted, supportive, someone that every student could depend on at any given moment. Kevin was a relief for parents having their kids involved in University life because he naturally took on the role of the guardian for everyone entering.
Kevin could fix anything. He taught me how to use power tools and I felt I was too blonde to learn how. He would laugh, rebuild faith and teach you just about anything. Kevin was the glue to UTSC theatre. He was well loved by everyone, but his heart beat the most for his wife Lisa and his three sons. They were a part of his daily talks and he could never wait to get home to them. He was full of pride when it came to family.
Kevin was always a funny laugh. A hug when you felt down. A stern lecture when you needed one. A safe place for all who entered the green room. He will be remembered for a thousand things, but mostly for just being humble and kind. Rest easy. You will never be forgotten.
Brittany Lemick
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Brenda Winstanley uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 24, 2023
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Kevin and me at one of many Halloween parties.
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Brenda Winstanley posted a condolence
Monday, April 24, 2023
So many wonderful memories of Kevin...
One of my favourites is the when Wonderland opened the “Kids Kingdom” playground area. Special Characters and escorts were created. Kevin and I were the long-term contract Entertainment staff at that time. The park wanted to promote this addition by having the “King”, a lion character, and his jester escort attend a number of promotional events. Turned out Kevin was too tall to be the character, so I had to do it even though I was actually too short. At 5’3” I did not make and impressive King, especially when my jester, Kevin, towered over me. The jester costume just fit him – think Will Ferrell in Elf, lol. But, Kevin played the role to the hilt – he was hilarious. Made it very difficult for me to be regal when I was stifling laughter, after all, characters don’t speak. No doubt everyone saw the King’s shoulders moving in my attempts to not laugh!
Kevin was famous in our university years for throwing or planning some great parties…even if they were, how do I say it, not exactly permitted. Long before York’s beautiful new fine arts facilities were built, those of us in the Design and Technical side of theatre had to go across Keele St. to a building in the industrial area for our classes and studios, except for carpentry and sound which remained in the bowels of Burton Auditorium. There was one large empty room, perfect for ‘get-togethers’. We all had keys to the building, to work on our projects, assignments, and shows at any time. Conveniently, no security for this area. So naturally Kevin said “Halloween Costume Party!” It was one of the best. He made sure everyone selected a ‘signature song’ for the dancing – so many great 80’s tunes! I do believe Kevin’s choice was the Violent Femme’s “Blister in the Sun”. There were many after show parties in Burton Auditorium, along with no reason at all parties, and I’m pretty sure Kevin came up with the idea for us to hide in the lighting grid when security came around. It worked.
I often thought of Kevin, Scott Hill and myself as the 'Three Amigos' throughout York U. an at Wonderland. Of course Kevin was Chevy Chase, Scott was Steve Martin, an I was Martin Short, ha ha. And like that comedy, we were competitive in harmless ways, but always had each other's backs. There was never any doubt, right up until now, that we would be there whenever needed...sadly Scott and I have lost not just our amigo, but part of our souls. The great memories do remain such as very competitive Oscar parties...well, for Scott and I anyway. Kevin would often pick the unusual nominees in our pre-show 'picks', but in a tuxedo T-shirt, he won the fashion portion of our evenings. Trivial Pursuit however, was always "game on!!" Not sure who ended up with the most wins; we were all trivia masters and we knew each other's weak categories.
Thank you Kevin for being such an important part of my life. See you again on the other side.
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Jennifer Mance posted a condolence
Monday, April 24, 2023
I had the pleasure of working with Kevin for many seasons at Canada’s Wonderland. He was a fabulous Stage Manager-firm, professional, but loved to make us laugh and loved to hang with us in the green room. When I think of Wonderland I think of Kevin holding up the colored cards from the booth: yellow if we needed to stay off the bottom level (starting to rain), red when it was time for a “concert style” show when it would be too unsafe to dance or move around.
Kevin had a huge heart and would do anything for anyone. Fast forward to 2010 when I was directing my first school musical and desperately needed technical advice. I reached out and, in true Kevin fashion, he not only told me what I needed but let me borrow equipment (light board and lights) from his tech department AND drove the stuff from T.O. to Whitby! He then hung the lights and taught me how to run the board. Not many would do this but Kevin was so passionate about education, theater and helping his friends. I have often shared this story with friends and colleagues over the years and always imagined I’d have the opportunity to somehow return the favor someday. He was taken far too soon and my heart breaks for his family. ❤️
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Erin Allaby posted a condolence
Monday, April 24, 2023
I had the pleasure of being taught by Kevin at UTSC in 1999. He made me laugh and gave me a bad grade on my technical exam because frankly I was no good at that aspect of theatre. We travelled to Prague together and he made me laugh and feel loved. Thank you, Kevin for everything. You will be missed. ❤️Erin
A Memorial Tree was planted for Kevin Wright
Monday, April 24, 2023
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at DeStefano Funeral Home Services Inc. Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of Kevin Mark Wright uploaded a photo
Monday, April 24, 2023
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