William Robert Waters

C.M., Ph.D., LL.D.

1932-2021

William (Bill) R. Waters was a devoted husband, a loyal friend, a beloved University of Toronto professor, and a recipient of the Order of Canada. Alongside his wife Phyllis, he worked to transform a lifetime of academic and entrepreneurial success into generous philanthropy and opportunities for others.

To honour Bill’s memory, we invite you to contribute to the Phyllis and William R. Waters Charitable Foundation, or to donate to a charity of your choice.

If you would like to contribute, please email charity@wrw.com for details.

To learn more about Bill’s life please visit his obituary or his UofT In Memoriam

The Phyllis and William R. Waters Charitable Foundation

Bill never forgot the opportunities and support granted to him by Edith Waters, a single woman of 51 who adopted him from the Dufferin County Children’s Aid Society. Further, he recognized the privilege and opportunities he gained through education. Driven by a desire to help others pursue their dreams in education and the arts, he and his wife established the Phyllis and William R. Waters Charitable Foundation.

The Phyllis and William R. Waters Charitable Foundation provides grants to students in need at the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, The University of British Columbia, Seattle Pacific University, and The Toronto Summer Music Academy. Additionally, it provides funding for the Toronto Symphony’s education programs and supports various other charitable causes such as Doctors Without Borders and the Yonge Street Mission.