Dr. Cynthia Joan Bird Pyper

With deep love and sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. Cynthia Joan Pyper (née Bird) in Oakville, Ont., on Sept. 27, 2025, at the age of 73, after a full and accomplished life.

Born in Winnipeg, Cynthia was the first daughter of Robert and Ellen Bird, and a cherished sister to Richard, Bruce, Norah and Greg. She was a devoted mother to Sean Adams and Julia Pyper, and the proud grandmother of two beloved grandsons, with another grandchild on the way. She leaves behind 10 nieces and nephews and their families, all of whom she adored. She is also survived by her loving partner, Colin Bantin, and his family.

Cynthia began her professional life as a teacher before courageously pursuing her dream of practising medicine. She was top of her class at the University of Toronto faculty of medicine before graduating top of her class at the University of Alabama school of medicine, all while raising her infant son. Cynthia went on to build a distinguished career in family medicine, caring for thousands of families in Oakville, Milton, Ont., and beyond. Patients and colleagues will remember her for her wisdom, dedication and the countless lives she touched over the years.

Ever the doctor, Cynthia often reminded friends and family to wear sunscreen — rain or shine — and to fill half their plate with vegetables. If she didn’t know the answer to a medical question, she would research it tirelessly, often keeping medical journals by her bedside for some “light reading.”

Patients and colleagues will remember her for her wisdom, dedication and the countless lives she touched over the years.

Cynthia embraced life with curiosity. She loved books, music and dance — from childhood ballet to ballroom later in life — and could turn any sit-down dinner into a Caribbean dance party. In recent years, she found joy in playing bridge, learning Spanish and taking up pickleball.

Horses brought her immense happiness and fulfillment, especially her beloved mare Eliza (also known as “Always A Mystic” or "Cynthia's other daughter"), with whom she shared a deep bond. She built strong friendships in the equestrian community and took great pride in caring for these magnificent animals. Even after a horseback accident left her with 15 fractures, Cynthia insisted on getting back in the saddle (literally!) — a testament to her resilience and love for the sport.

Cynthia was deeply proud of her Canadian heritage. Her grandfather, Hubert Bird, started out in Canada from a Saskatchewan homestead in 1905, and went on to found Bird Construction, which remains a well-respected company to this day. She carried her family's legacy of perseverance and generosity throughout her life, from supporting her local community to sponsoring children in need around the world.

She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing her.