Renowned Canadian journalist Christie Blatchford was a force to be reckoned with.

Born in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, she had already started high school when her family moved to Toronto, where NTCI was her school of choice. After Grade 13, Christie studied journalism at Ryerson, and was named the leading journalism graduate.

Loyal friend, trusted colleague, brilliant musician, stellar editor, beloved wife and mother—these are all phrases that describe Barbara Kamienski, a much loved and respected member of the North Toronto Foundation Advisory Board who lost her battle with cancer in June 2019.

Born in Winnipeg, Barbara was nine when she moved to Toronto with her mother. She soon distinguished herself at John Fisher Public School where, through the itinerant music program, she began her life-long love affair with the French horn.

NTCI lost a loyal, long-time supporter of the school when Mike Tzekas passed after a long battle with cancer. Born in Greece, Mike immigrated to Canada at the age of four. After attending Deer Park Public School, he became part of NT’s close-knit class of ’69 and was involved with the planning of its 50th reunion.

Mike had a successful career with Xerox Corporation before turning to politics. He was first elected to the City of Scarborough Council in 1991. He held that position until 1998, when Scarborough amalgamated with Toronto. He continued as Toronto councillor for Scarborough Wexford until losing to Norm Kelly in 2000.

Sir David Evans was a Second World War pilot and decorated senior commander of the Royal Air Force (Britain). Born in Windsor, Ontario, on July 14, 1924, David was educated in Toronto at Hodgson Public School and NTCI.

David joined the Royal Air Force in 1943 and trained as a pilot in Canada. After receiving his commission in April 1944, he flew fighter ground-attack missions and was one of the first RAF officers to enter the Belsen concentration camp.

Donna’s life motto was that you make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give. She lived each day with a grateful spirit and taught those around her to never lose their own voice. A voracious reader, Donna was also a skilled pianist, exceptional communicator, and a passionate teacher.

While at NT Donna was active in sports, music, and the G.A.A. She married classmate Jim Britten and they had a strong 53-year marriage. After graduation Donna briefly taught elementary school and was fondly remembered as the favourite Grade 7 teacher by a number of students from the class of ’68 at their 50th reunion.