Toby Belkin, born on March 11, 1926, in Montreal, passed away peacefully in Toronto on December 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.
She was the beloved wife of Mayer Belkin, who predeceased her, and together they forged a life filled with love, laughter, and resilience.
Toby was a devoted mother to her five children: Robyn Cowles, Hershel Belkin, Leah Banayan, Yehudis Danzinger, and Warren Belkin. Each of her children carries a piece of her spirit, reflecting the values she instilled in them throughout their lives.
Toby’s family tree has flourished, with over 100 descendants, including great-great-grandchildren, all of whom are a testament to her nurturing and loving nature.
Toby’s life was a remarkable journey marked by resilience and unwavering optimism. From her early years, she faced hardships that would have overwhelmed many, yet she met each challenge with a spirit that remained upbeat and positive. Whether it was the trials of her youth or the struggles of adulthood, Toby approached life with a determination to find truth and meaning, even in the most difficult of times. Her ability to maintain a hopeful outlook inspired those around her, and her simple honesty and deep gratitude left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Throughout her life, Toby embodied humility and compassion. She had an innate ability to connect with others, offering a listening ear and a warm embrace to those in need. Her strength grew with each life experience, and her capacity to find joy amidst hardship became a guiding light for her family. Toby taught her children and grandchildren the importance of kindness, understanding, and the value of family bonds. She believed that love was the greatest gift one could give, and she shared that love generously.
Toby’s commitment to honesty and truth was unwavering. She lived her life with integrity, always striving to do what was right, even when faced with difficult decisions. Her moral compass guided her actions, and she instilled these values in her family, ensuring that her legacy would continue through generations.
As a matriarch, Toby was the heart of her family. In her later years, Toby continued to inspire those around her with her zest for life. She volunteered for Baycrest Hospital for 20 years, and embraced each day with gratitude, cherishing the moments spent with her family and friends. Her unwavering spirit remained a source of strength for her loved ones, even as she faced the challenges of aging.
Toby Belkin leaves behind a rich legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering optimism. Her family will forever cherish the lessons she imparted and the memories they created together. As they gather to celebrate her life, they will remember her not just for the challenges she overcame, but for the joy she brought into their lives and the love she shared so freely.
In her passing, Toby has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her spirit lives on in the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the love that binds her family together. May her memory be a blessing, and may her legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering optimism continue to inspire future generations.

Memorial donations may be made to Bikur Cholim 416-783-7983.