The William Osler Health System Foundation is mourning the loss of its longtime President and CEO, Ken Mayhew, a respected leader whose work helped reshape healthcare in Brampton and beyond.
News of Mayhew’s passing was confirmed by the foundation, which described the loss as profound. He was widely known not just for his leadership, but for his ability to connect with people across all levels of the community.
Colleagues and partners consistently pointed to his willingness to listen, his humility, and his deep commitment to improving healthcare access.
Mayhew spent years at the helm of the foundation, where he played a central role in fundraising efforts that directly supported hospital expansion, new medical technology, and critical care services.
Among his most significant contributions was his involvement in the campaign to secure Brampton’s second hospital, a project that required sustained advocacy, community trust, and major financial backing.
Patrick Brown reflected on the time they worked together, noting that they shared “hundreds of hours” making fundraising appeals for the hospital project.
He described Mayhew as someone whose “unwavering optimism, relentless determination, and infectious positivity never faltered,” even during the most demanding moments of the campaign.
That sentiment was echoed across the community. Many described Mayhew as a steady and calming presence, someone who led with purpose but never sought attention for himself.
His leadership style combined professionalism with approachability, allowing him to build strong relationships with donors, healthcare workers, and local officials alike.
In a statement, the foundation emphasized his character as much as his accomplishments, noting that he had “a remarkable ability to connect with people at every level” and consistently took the time to recognize the contributions of others.
His work was driven not only by results, but by a genuine belief in community-driven healthcare.
Over the course of his career, Mayhew earned numerous honours that reflected both his impact and reputation.
He was a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal and was named Fundraiser of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Greater Toronto and Golden Horseshoe chapters.
His contributions to the sector were also recognized nationally, with his career featured in a book by Peter Mansbridge highlighting individuals who have shaped Canada’s development.
Those who worked alongside him often highlighted not just his achievements, but the way he approached his work. Graham McGregor described him as “a true leader in our community,” adding that he brought humility, calmness, and even humour into serious and complex work.
Others noted that he had a rare ability to inspire people to give, encouraging generosity not through pressure but through shared purpose.
Community voices also pointed to the tangible impact of his leadership. Fundraising efforts under Mayhew’s direction helped bring advanced medical equipment, including new CT scanners, to local hospitals, directly improving patient care. His work ensured that healthcare facilities in the region were better equipped to serve a growing and diverse population.
Tributes from colleagues and community members repeatedly returned to the same qualities. He was described as humble, kind, and deeply committed to others.
Many emphasized that he led by example, showing that effective leadership in healthcare philanthropy requires both vision and empathy.
While details surrounding his passing have not been widely disclosed, the reaction to his death has made one thing clear. His influence extended far beyond boardrooms and fundraising campaigns. He helped shape the healthcare landscape of an entire community while leaving a lasting impression on the people who worked with him.
Mayhew is remembered not only as a leader, but as someone who believed in the power of collective effort. His legacy lives on in the hospitals he helped support, the programs he helped fund, and the countless individuals he inspired along the way.
He is survived by his family, including his wife and son, along with a wide network of colleagues, friends, and community members who will continue to feel the impact of his work.
As tributes continue to pour in, one message remains consistent. Ken Mayhew’s contributions to healthcare and community building will not be forgotten, and his absence will be deeply felt across Brampton and beyond.
Leave a Comment