Kevin Kemp

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Kevin Ermil Kemp passed away at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, surrounded by family. Born October 14, 1963, he was the eldest child of Roy and Laurel Kemp and the older brother of Michele (Steve) and Carmen. He was a loving father to his three children, Jeffrey, Jackson, and Brooklyn; a caring father-in-law to Ravinder (Jeffrey); a cherished uncle to his niece and nephews; and a proud “Grump” to his two grandchildren, Theodore and Sebastian.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Kevin spent his childhood throughout Western Canada. In 1983, he began his post-secondary studies at the University of Saskatchewan and later attended Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. There, he immersed himself fully in campus life, coaching the mooting team and co-creating Legalmania, a satirical musical written with his close friend and colleague Andrew Werbowski, inspired by 1960s Beatlemania. The production gave him the perfect opportunity to showcase his famously uncanny Kermit the Frog impression.

Following his graduation from Osgoode in 1989, Kevin completed his articles at McCarthy Tétrault LLP and went on to work there as an associate lawyer before leaving in 1993 to establish his own practice.

Kevin ultimately settled in Alliston, Ontario, where he became an active member of the community. He ran for mayor in 2014 and wrote the well-loved newspaper column Mouseland, a biting lampoon of local politics. In honour of his youngest sister, Carmen, who passed away in 2002, he established the Carmen Vanderwater Medical Centre in the town.

Kevin possessed a sharp intellect, tireless work ethic, and fearless commitment to the truth — qualities that defined both his career as a litigator and his personal life. Those who knew him best will remember his gregarious personality, adventurous spirit, and deep generosity.

Above all else, Kevin valued authenticity — in himself and in others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those privileged to have known him.

In accordance with Kevin’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. The family asks that those wishing to honour him consider a donation to St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation.