Roger McEwan

On Aug. 8th, 2025, Roger was doing his regular morning sprints on the dock at the Murray Canal with his beloved dog Petra at his side. As a schoolboy, he set many records as a sprinter. He died suddenly, at the end of his run, in his 81st year.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              
Roger is predeceased by his beloved wife Marsha. Roger and Marsha spent 40 joyful years together, running marathons, travelling the world, enjoying good food, wine and music, and laughing every day. Roger was an incredibly devoted caregiver throughout her long battle with cancer.

Roger is mourned by his loving partner Kay, with whom he spent happy years at the end of his life. They could talk for hours and enjoyed regular outings in the County, to events such as theatre productions and the model train shows to indulge Roger’s love for British trains and buses. Also mourned by Petra - the last of a string of faithful dogs, his brothers John (Pat) and Neil, brother-in-law Ron (Wanda), sister-in-law Andi, nieces Jill (Doug and sons Graeme, Colton and Dallin) and Christa (Rob), nephews James, David, Paul, Bruce and Dean. Roger was a very engaged uncle, cheering on the pursuits of his family and regularly sending news articles to expand their knowledge. Roger was born in Upminster, Essex County, England on August 31, 1944 to parents Irene and John McEwan. Roger will be missed by cherished friends and neighbours in Carrying Place, some friendships spanning many decades.

Roger was a renaissance man who loved the many traditions which shaped his life. A razor-sharp wit and master storyteller, he often had us all in stitches. He was a snappy dresser and a diehard Parrothead. Although asked to mouth the words in his school choir as a boy, he went on to spend years as a DJ. When you visited his home, he carefully curated a selection of music from his large collection to match the occasion. Roger was a voracious reader, consuming several newspapers each morning to form his opinions. He spent years running a used book store and never wanted to part with the books he read - they were like friends.

Sport played a central part in Roger’s life. As a rugby player, Roger helped his teams win multiple championships. Then, Roger became a respected coach, leading the Saracens Rugby Club to a historic Carling Cup championship in 1978—one of the greatest upsets in Ontario Cup Rugby history. He later guided the University of Toronto Varsity Blues to several Ontario titles, coached Ontario and Canadian Junior teams, and served as a Canadian Senior Team Selector. As Technical Director and later Executive Director of Rugby Ontario, Roger championed women’s rugby, athlete and coach development, and organized major events. In his leadership role with Sport Ontario, he was a strong advocate for sport, helping secure vital funding for provincial sport organizations. A committed sports fan as well, he was a proud lifelong supporter of West Ham United Football Club.

Roger will be remembered for his leadership, passion, strong character, and zest for life. There will be a family graveside gathering. In lieu of donations, hug your dog, play your favourite song, or raise a glass to honour Roger’s memory. Remembrances to: rememberingrogermcewan@gmail.com