Ken Mayhew, President and CEO of the Osler Foundation, has passed away, leaving a profound legacy in Brampton’s healthcare community. Known for his humility, optimism, and dedication, Ken spent decades raising funds, leading campaigns, and inspiring others to invest in the city’s hospitals.
He played a pivotal role in securing Brampton’s second hospital and bringing life-saving equipment, such as modern CT scanners, to the community. He is survived by his wife, a son, and a daughter.
The William Osler Health System confirmed his passing, praising Ken’s ability to connect with people at every level. “Ken had a remarkable ability to connect with people at every level and took the time to truly listen, to learn and to recognize the meaningful contributions of others,” the organization stated.
“He was an extraordinary advocate for health care in the communities we serve and brought heart and purpose to everything he did.”
Ken’s impact extended far beyond administrative leadership. He was a true advocate for patients, donors, and healthcare workers alike.
Patrick Brown, who worked closely with him, reflected, “The world has lost a truly great and profoundly kind man. He will be deeply missed by many in Brampton and far beyond. Ken’s unwavering optimism, relentless determination, and infectious positivity never faltered.”
Graham McGregor, another longtime collaborator, noted, “Ken was a true leader in our community. He was integral to our effort in landing Brampton’s second hospital. I always appreciated the humility, calm demeanour, and sense of humour he brought to the work we did together.”
Ken’s leadership in fundraising transformed Brampton’s medical landscape. Paul Vicente recalled seeing the impact firsthand: “Recently, I visited Brampton Civic Hospital and while I was there I had the opportunity to see some of their newest CT scanners, acquired thanks to the fundraising efforts of the William Osler Foundation and its leader. Ken was a leader among leaders in our community. He encouraged all to give and to give deeply to build our hospitals. He was extremely humble, calm, and found the goodness in every person’s heart for healthcare in Brampton. This city will miss him greatly.”
Community members also paid tribute to his generosity and vision.
Kiran Aftab Khan wrote, “Brampton has lost a visionary leader. Ken Mayhew’s dedication to the William Osler Foundation brought life-saving technology, like our new CT scanners, to our city. He was a man of immense humility and heart who inspired us all to give back. He will be deeply missed.”
Monica Singh Soares recalled meeting him at a Rotary event, saying, “His humility and dedication to advancing healthcare in our communities were evident. I had the privilege of hearing him speak in October. He will be greatly missed.” Zein Dhanidina, a mentee in the fundraising community, remembered Ken as “a true mentor who guided me when I started fundraising 20 years ago. Rest in peace, Ken.”
Ken’s career was marked by numerous accolades reflecting both his professional excellence and community impact.
He received the King Charles III Coronation Medal, was recognized as Fundraiser of the Year by the Greater Toronto and Golden Horseshoe chapters of AFP, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow.
His career and contributions were profiled in Peter Mansbridge’s book How Canada Works – The People Who Make Our Nation Thrive, highlighting the influence of his work on national healthcare philanthropy.
Those who knew him well describe Ken as a man whose accomplishments were rooted in character. He believed in collaboration, valued mentorship, and encouraged others to invest in the community.
Beyond hospitals and fundraising campaigns, he created a culture where volunteers, donors, and staff felt valued, motivated, and part of something meaningful.
The lives of countless patients, families, and healthcare workers bear witness to the impact of his decades-long dedication.
Ken Mayhew’s passing is a significant loss for Brampton, the Osler Foundation, and the broader healthcare community. Yet his legacy endures in the programs he championed, the hospitals he helped expand, and the people he inspired to give, volunteer, and lead.
Patrick Brown summed it up best: “The world has lost a truly great and profoundly kind man.” Those who worked with him and the families who benefit from his efforts will continue to honor his vision and carry forward the work he devoted his life to.
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