Ken Mayhew William Osler Obituary, Death; The community of Brampton, alongside healthcare and philanthropic leaders across Canada, is mourning the profound loss of Ken Mayhew, President and CEO of the William Osler Health System Foundation. Mayhew passed away on March 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by visionary leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening healthcare for rapidly growing communities across Ontario.
Since joining the Foundation in 2012, Mayhew led the organization through a period of transformative growth. Under his guidance, the Foundation expanded its philanthropic reach, securing critical funding for hospital redevelopment, advanced diagnostic and surgical technologies, and innovative patient-centered initiatives. Colleagues note that he viewed healthcare philanthropy not simply as fundraising, but as a means to improve equity, enhance patient outcomes, and build resilient healthcare systems.
Mayhew played a pivotal role in advancing redevelopment and enhancement efforts at Brampton Civic Hospital, Etobicoke General Hospital, and Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness. Through strategic partnerships and strong community engagement, he helped drive investments in state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded clinical programs, and modernized care environments—efforts that directly improved access to care and elevated patient experiences throughout the region.
Before his tenure at Osler, Mayhew spent more than two decades in senior leadership roles with the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. During that time, he led national marketing, communications, and donor development initiatives that consistently generated more than $50 million annually, supporting research, advocacy, and patient services nationwide. His ability to align strategic vision with compassionate purpose became a defining feature of his career.
Those who worked alongside Mayhew remember him as a principled, thoughtful leader who valued collaboration, mentorship, and trust. He was known for empowering teams, fostering strong donor relationships, and building partnerships grounded in transparency and shared purpose. His leadership style balanced analytical rigor with empathy, ensuring that growth and innovation never overshadowed the human impact of healthcare.
Ken Mayhew’s passing leaves a significant void within Canada’s healthcare philanthropy sector. Yet his influence endures through the strengthened institutions, expanded programs, and improved patient care experiences he helped make possible.
He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments, but for the integrity, generosity, and compassion that defined his life and service.