Steven Corfe Obituary-Death News; Steven Alexander Corfe, Member of University Health Network (UHN), Dies
It is with immense love and profoundly heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steven Alexander Corfe, who died peacefully at Kensington Hospice in Toronto, surrounded by his devoted wife Johanna and the close circle of family and friends who meant the world to him.
Though his time on earth was far too short, Steve left behind a legacy of compassion, brilliance, and quiet strength that will never be forgotten. Steve was the deeply loved husband of Johanna O’Brien and the adoring father of Owen Jagger Corfe, his greatest joy and the light of his life.
He was the cherished son of Maria Corfe and Richard Corfe (Kelly), and a beloved brother to Kareen (Bryan). He was also a devoted and fun-loving uncle to Maya, Emalee, Sarah, Colton, Ronan, and Sydney.
Steve’s warmth extended to the O’Brien family—James and Susan, Matthew and Kimberley, Andrew and Vanessa—who were dear to him and enriched his life with their enduring love and support.
Born in Paisley, Scotland, Steve emigrated to Canada with his family in 1978. His early years were spent in Barrie and Cornwall, and he eventually made a home in Niagara. Steve had a lifelong passion for learning, especially in the sciences.
He pursued his intellectual curiosity with dedication and humility, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from Brock University and a Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of Toronto.
Drawn to hospital environments and the potential to make meaningful change, Steve focused his academic and professional life on cancer research. After completing his doctoral studies, he joined the University Health Network (UHN), where he flourished and built a distinguished career.
Most recently, he served as the Director of the Research Facilities Department—a role he deeply loved, not only for the important work but more so for the people he worked alongside. His leadership style was marked by empathy, insight, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve lived a rich and vibrant life filled with music, books, travel, and spirited conversation. He was naturally curious, always eager to understand the world around him and the people in it. He brought this same curiosity and joy to his hobbies and relationships.
Sports played a central role throughout Steve’s life. He was a talented athlete, especially known for his days as point guard for the legendary Kurt Rambis TRSL basketball team. He also loved playing hockey, watching March Madness, and cheering on his favourite teams.
Steve passed this passion on to his son Owen, sharing in games and outdoor adventures, especially their cherished camping trips. These moments of connection and laughter—whether around the campfire, on the basketball court, or teeing off with friends—were some of the memories he treasured most.
Steve’s gentle nature, quick wit, and loyalty endeared him to everyone who knew him. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by family at Geneva Park, at Richard and Kelly’s, Kareen and Bryan’s cottage, or at the Tausy family cottages—places filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
In honour of Steve’s life and the causes closest to his heart, the family kindly asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Owen’s educational trust fund, the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation—where Steve received exceptional care—or to Road Hockey to Conquer Cancer, a charity that reflected Steve’s enduring fight and commitment to cancer research.
Steve Corfe will be remembered as a beloved husband, father, son, brother, colleague, mentor, and friend. His brilliance, kindness, and deep love for those around him will live on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to know him. Though his voice may be quiet now, his legacy echoes loudly in the lives he touched.
