Obituary of Edward Raymond Morley “Ted”

It is with great sadness that we share that the “engine of our family” and the ultimate family man, suddenly passed away in his home in Fonthill, on Friday, February 18, 2022, at the age of 69. A beloved husband has now been reunited with his late wife, Gail. A cherished father who always promised "Just call and I'll be there. No questions asked!"; to Keith (Melissa) of Niagara Falls and Graham of St. Catharines. He will be deeply missed by his amazing grandchildren Kameron, Dylan and Logan. Dear brother of Ethelyn Mutch of St. Catharines, Karen (Bob) Henderson of St. Catharines, and Doug (the late Joyce) of Oakville. Uncle Ted will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews.

He was an avid enthusiast for all things mechanical and fast. Ted will be deeply missed by his life-long friends, Pat St. Amand and Dennis Dominey, also Mark Robertson and all the shop guys, who spent many hours working with Ted on antique cars through the years.

Ted was predeceased by his parents Ray and Margie Morley and by his parents-in-law Rudy and Rose Valovich.

We would like to thank Paul for his dedicated care in the past two years and to Mark for always being there for Ted. It meant so much to him and our family.

When we remember Ted, we think back to his youth; a time where he would race cars and was introduced into the automotive industry. He carried on his father’s legacy finding his career at GM. His passion for cars led him to become a vintage car collector and restorer. Thus, being his favourite pastime, it also allowed him to find his long-time friends who ultimately became his family's family.

Ted was a fan of Jazz and Charlie Watts, and he loved hockey. He was a retired hockey goalie and coach. As a true lover of the sport, he always rooted for the home team, no matter the heartache. He was an activist and took action against injustices to the environment, especially when there were threats of nuclear waste in Lincoln.

For a man who was constantly working hard and keeping active, he always made time for his family. From bringing us camping when we were young, to attending his wife’s deathbed; he always weathered the storm and pulled us through life’s challenges. He created a safe space for his sons and often reminded his fatherly promise "Just call and I'll be there, no questions asked!". He made it his life's purpose to honour his family and to be the best father in the world.

At home, Ted enjoyed being in the company of his canines, or the odd cat. If dog was man's best friend, Dad was dog's best friend. He set the comedic standard at the head of any dinner table or coffee booth, once again carrying his father's legacy. Ted would share his timely jokes only to be upstaged by his charming trademark grin and laugh. He was a man with advice so precisely curated, you’d swear you came up with it yourself! Ted will always be remembered as a good man and a believer in good people. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Ted has completed his final lap and sees the checkered flag in his rear-view mirror.

In accordance with Ted’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted with Essentials Cremation and Burial Services (905-354-2133). A celebration of Ted’s life will be held late spring and details will be shared at a later time. In memory of Ted, memorial donations may be given to The Kidney Foundation of Canada. Online condolences may be shared on Ted’s tribute page found at EssentialsNiagara.com.

“Dad is with us always; the wisdom and love he gave is too real and they will never fade away. He has become as fast as the wind.”