Joanna Walsh Baty in her coffin, 1941

On death and dying

On this All Souls Day or Day of the Dead, I take an in-depth look at what led to the demise of my direct ancestors.

A life full of loss: Mary Scott Mitchell

My great-great-grandmother Mary Scott Mitchell was widowed twice and outlived four of her six children. And death by drowning would play a prominent role in her family’s story.

Profile: William Patrick Walsh

My great-great-grandfather William Patrick Walsh was a Crimean War veteran who ended his days tragically in a veteran’s hospital.

Profile: Timothy & Johanna Walsh

On this St. Patrick’s Day, I look at the life of my 3G-grandparents Timothy Walsh and Johanna Power, both born in Ireland.

They were champions

In 1921, my paternal grandfather played for the champion Toronto Falcons soccer team.

Lest we forget

In remembrance of members of my extended family who made the ultimate sacrifice. Lest we forget.

A life cut short

On this day in 1915, my paternal great-grandparents lost a son, a victim of the sea.

A fine day for a wedding

July 3, 1948 was a fine day for a wedding. On that lovely summer day 72 years ago, my parents began their life together.