Stephen Charles Edwards

The Life Story of Stephen Charles Edwards - May 8th , 1947 - August 1st , 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Stephen Charles Edwards in the early morning of August 1st, 2026, in his 79th year, at Trillium Manor in Orillia. Steve leaves behind a legacy of bravery, hard work, generosity, and unique life experiences.

Early Life and Roots

Born in Manchester, England, on May 8, 1947, Stephen was the second son of the late Mary and Joseph Edwards. Growing up in Manchester with a mischievous spirit and endless energy, he attended St. Margaret Mary Catholic School, keeping those around him on their toes with his "always on the go" nature. Following his school years, Steve channeled his sharp mind and mechanical curiosity into an apprenticeship with Mather and Platt, where he mastered the complexities of manufacturing textile machinery and industrial centrifugal pumps.

A New Chapter in Canada

Driven by a love for adventure and a desire to build a vibrant future, Steve took a courageous leap of faith in 1973. Alongside his first wife, Christine and their daughter Stephanie, they immigrated to Canada to embrace a new life filled with endless opportunities. The family’s Canadian adventure grew in 1974 with the arrival of their second daughter, Yvonne. Steve’s life journey later brought new chapters and partnerships.

Following his marriage to Christine, Steve shared his life and business ambitions with Cindy Green. Together, they owned and operated "Sunset Cove" marina-a venture that perfectly combined his love for mechanics and the water, and ultimately led him to settle in the Bolsover area. During this same period, he discovered the beauty of Long Island in the Bahamas, where he enjoyed a second home and made lasting friendships.

Professional Achievements

Steve was a dedicated professional who specialized in heavy machinery and hydraulic turbines, as well as spending time in the textile industry. Throughout his career, he worked for esteemed companies such as Mather and Platt, Allis Chalmers, and American Hydro. His final professional position was as a National Sales Representative for American Hydro, managing and selling of hydraulic turbines to the energy industry. This work took him to every province and territory across Canada, as well as extensive travels throughout the United States. He held a deep appreciation for the vastness of the landscapes he witnessed, getting to visit many remote, beautiful corners of Canada that few Canadians ever get to see.

Throughout his life, Steve enjoyed many hobbies. He possessed a creative and talented mind, enjoying everything from skiing and scuba diving to woodworking and computer technology. He always welcomed a good challenge and earned the nickname “Gadget” among family for his unique tool collection and his technical skill.

Life, Love, and Later Years

Steve loved being outdoors, living in Bolsover/Orillia for 35 years he spent his spare time working on construction projects around his house, or taking boat rides along the Trent-Severn Waterway. In later years, Steve met his wife, Katherine McLeod. After living in Aurora together, they purchased their dream home in Bayshore Village which backed onto Lake Simcoe. Marrying in 2008, they enjoyed a beautiful life on the water. Steve and Kathy loved sitting on their dock or patio, enjoying a nice glass of wine and watching the sunsets together. Steve was incredibly talented at home, known for his immaculate lawn skills, and impressive culinary talents. He could whip up an amazing roast or feast, loved hosting friends for drinks and dinner, and was always proudly nominated as the designated turkey or ham carver at holiday gatherings. They quickly made many amazing friends in Bayshore, and Kathy is deeply grateful to them for always checking-in and being so supportive to her and Steve over his declining years. Steve will always be remembered for his generosity, kindness, great sense of humour, and big smile. Family and Legacy Stephen was predeceased by his parents (Mary and Joseph), and his brother, Michael Edwards. He is survived and will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife, Katherine McLeod; his daughters, Stephanie Draffin (Dave) and Yvonne Edwards; and his stepdaughter, Julia White. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Liam and Owen Draffin, and Bronwen Edwards. He is also survived by his brother, John Edwards (Abbie) and his niece Mary; his sister, Valerie Corcoran (Stephen) and his nephews Joseph and David; Kathy's siblings Bill McLeod (Tracy), Dan McLeod (Barb), Terry McLeod (Bob), Norm McLeod (Sylvia) and Kathy's nephews and niece; and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Celebration of Life: August 15th, 2026 from 2pm to 4pm Bayshore Village Hayloft 1 Hayloft Lane, Brechin, Ontario In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Steve’s Memory to: Movement Disorder Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital https://support.uhnfoundation.ca/site/Donation2?1486.donation=form1&df_id=1486&mfc_pref=T Or Orillia Soldier’s Memorial Hospital Foundation https://osmhfoundation.ca/donate/