Bryan Rowntree was a dedicated philanthropist whose unwavering commitment to his community transformed the healthcare landscape in Scarborough. Bryan’s profound impact on the lives of countless individuals is a testament to his belief in giving back to the community that shaped him.
Bryan passed away at the age of 91 on October 14, 2024—his passing leaves a significant void in the community he cherished so deeply. Bryan was a successful entrepreneur and a devoted family man, deeply influenced by the love he shared with his late wife, Bette. Together, they epitomized a spirit of giving, nurturing a strong belief in the importance of community support. After Bette’s passing, Bryan’s mission became clear: to ensure people in Scarborough have 24/7 access to supportive, integrated palliative care based on their wishes at the end of their lives.
In 2023, he donated a transformative $5 million to establish the Bryan and Bette Rowntree Palliative Care Clinical Centre and the Palliative Care Support Fund, also in their name, at Scarborough Health Network (SHN). This initiative has fundamentally changed how palliative care is delivered, ensuring that families can access compassionate, around-the-clock support, tailored to their unique wishes and needs. The new model of care emphasizes a coordinated approach that integrates services across various settings, allowing patients to receive personalized care where they feel most comfortable—whether at home, in the hospital, or a hospice. This collaborative effort involves partnerships with several local organizations, creating a seamless transition for patients and their families during challenging times.
“Bryan’s profound generosity and vision for compassionate care have forever changed the landscape of palliative services in Scarborough,” says Alayne Metrick, Special Advisor to the President & CEO of SHN Foundation, who has known Bryan Rowntree, his late wife and family for 35 years. “Every interaction with them was engaging and inspiring. I will always remember their sincere generosity, Bryan’s quick wit, ability to get things done, strong business sense, and his love for Bette. We are deeply saddened by his passing and are committed to continuing the important work he started.”
Bryan Rowntree’s legacy is one of compassion, care, and community spirit. The breadth of Bryan and his wife Bette’s philanthropic efforts is immense and spans various sectors. His passing is a profound loss.
On behalf of everyone at SHN, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time.
