It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of Steven John Railton on Jan. 17 at the age of 61, after a long battle with rheumatoid arthritis and a variety of other illnesses associated with the disease. He left this earth surrounded by his family and listening to his favourite songs.
Born in Toronto but raised in England, Steven always held a special place in his heart for his beloved hometown, Pinner. We were privileged to hear so many marvelous memories of adventures and escapades with a number of what would turn out to be life-long friends.
Steven moved to Canada at 18 years old to begin his new life. He worked in a variety of different trades before an accident at work lead him to return to school in his late thirties. He went on to have a wonderful career in Health and Safety. He briefly retired before going on to own a British goods store in both Sparta & Port Stanley, Ontario before his illness made it too difficult to work. We will always cherish the memories of our days at A Bit of Brit.
Steven was an exceptional father to his three children; Cameron, Emily (Liam) and Sara (Stephen). He was a loving and proud papa to Charlotte and Max. More than anything, he was a kind and loving partner to his devoted soul mate, Valerie. They were the love of each other's lives and together they had countless good times during their nearly 18 years together. Known for their hospitality, the front door was always open and there was always beer in the fridge for friends or family to drop in for a visit and a laugh. Val took incredible care of Steve during the entire course of his illness and enabled him to stay in the comfort of his home until his absolute final days.
Steven was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Jean Railton, former sister-in-law Susan, and beloved niece Andrea. Leaving behind to mourn are his family and friends here in Canada, as well as all of his extended family in England.
Steven faced a number of medical difficulties over the past 10 years. Through all of the struggles, he always maintained a positive attitude and a wicked sense of humour. There truly never was a dull moment. Even in the darkest of hours, he always managed to have everyone around him in stitches laughing.
Steven and his family would like to extend a very sincere thank you to the army of healthcare workers who have assisted in his care over the years. This includes the staff at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital and Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario where the journey first began. Thank you to the amazing team at Royal ProResp, including Robert, Wade & Kyle. You made it possible for him to be comfortable at home. We are so grateful for the emergency department at Royal Victoria Hospital, as well as the entire team in Surge 1. Thank you to Dr. Emerson for her guidance and care. Extra special thank you to respiratory therapist Sandra, as well as nurses Andrea, Sarabjeet & Raelynn. There are angels on this earth and you ladies are among them.
The greatest joy in Steven's life was his food, his music, his family & his beloved soccer team, Leeds United. Some of the most precious memories are those of family dance parties in the living room or countless laughs sitting around the kitchen table.
As per Steven's wishes, there will be no funeral service here in Canada. Instead there will a celebration of life when we bring him home to England in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Society. Such a tough disease that is so often misunderstood. It was a long battle, but we always faced it together.
"Cheers, boss."
Words of condolence may be left for the family at www.peacefultransition.ca.