July 25, 1934 - May 24, 2025
It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John Edwin "Ted" Morgan, at the age of 90. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Born on July 25, 1934, in Toronto, Ted was the son of Edwin Owen Morgan and Bernice Irene Morgan (Née Robertson). He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Marylouise Morgan; his daughters, Heather Freeheart (James) and Nicole Barton (Christopher); and his sons, Edwin "Ted" Morgan (Melanie) and Scott Lofquist-Morgan (Amy). Ted's passing was preceded by his son, Owen Morgan. Ted is also survived by his loving sister, Jane Wilson; her husband, Doug, and their family; and by his wonderful grandchildren, Jack, Alexander and Samantha, Kathleen and Ryan, Isabella and Charlotte. Of all Ted's accomplishments, he was most proud of his family.
An internationally renowned surgeon, Ted was considered the "grandfather of urogynecology" in Canada. He graduated from the University of Toronto in 1958, beginning his medical career in general practice in Orillia, Ont. He then earned his fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1965 and started a career in obstetrics and gynecology.
Over his 40-year career, he founded and served as director of the gynecologic urology unit at Toronto General Hospital. He also served as the obstetrician- and gynecologist-in-chief at the Toronto Western Hospital, and was the deputy chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Women's College Hospital. Ted also chaired the examination committee and was chief examiner of obstetrics and gynecology for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and was the medical director of the Genesis Research Foundation.
The surgical techniques and principles that he developed have been globally recognized by peers as cornerstones for surgeons in his field. Ted also held the role of full professor in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Toronto. His lectures and publications were considered exceptional, and there is international recognition of the remarkable skill sets of those surgeons that had trained under his guidance.
As a professor, Ted was a regular lecturer and examiner at multiple universities. Recognition of his professional accomplishments include the lifetime achievement award from the Ontario Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2012. The Dr. Ted Morgan Award was established by the University of Toronto to recognize the surgical potential of the senior resident who emulates the level of care that Ted provided his patients over his career.
Ted was known by all for his kindness and generosity. He was committed to the mentorship of youth, particularly in his home community of Creemore, Ont. He volunteered and supported community-based organizations focused on youth pursuing educational and training opportunities, as well as supporting scholarship and bursary programs.
An avid golfer, skier, canoeist, and international competitor in squash, Ted's broad interests continued to connect him to new and lifelong friends. He continued to reach out and remain connected to all of them throughout his life.
The family would like to share its appreciation to Dr. Alex Rebecca Pearce, of the Creemore Medical Office, for her unwavering support, guidance and care in recent days that brought the family great comfort. They would also like to express gratitude to the staff of Campbell House Hospice of Collingwood, Ont., for their time, gentle empathy and quiet support. Any generosity to the work of the hospice is welcome and encouraged.
"He never knew what envy was, nor hate; His soul was filled with worth and honesty; And with another thing besides, quite out of date, called modesty." – Duke of Buckingham