Obituary
THEODORE (TED) CZARNOTA
March 17, 1945 – February 9, 2023
Whether you knew him as Ted, Teddy or Theodore, Ted Czarnota was the heart of Williams Shoe Store and a Queen West fixture who will be missed by many.
He was father to Kasia and Matthew (Heather) and grandfather to Ben, Adam and Claire. Ted was a middle child, younger brother to Henry and big brother to Christine. Above all, he was most certainly the devoted son of Maria and Bolesław who, rather than pursuing his own interests in pharmacy, nutrition and health, carried on the legacy of his parents and kept Williams Shoe Store open for an impressive 72 years. He made it through the covid pandemic, without an online presence, his business surviving on word of mouth, knowledgeable service and repeat customers with very happy feet. Maria and Bolesław opened the store in 1950, lived above the store and raised their children in the store, instilling in each of them a strong work ethic, a sense of pride and the importance of community.
Upon entering the store, you were guaranteed to be greeted with a cheerful, ‘Hello!’. If you had wide feet or trouble finding shoes, you knew Williams Shoe Store at 750 Queen Street West. His repeat, multi-generational customers came from all over Toronto, some from the States and Europe and even one from Australia. His loyal customers were happy to see that the store remained open, year after year, unchanged and familiar in its iconic nostalgia. He didn’t want to disappoint and had no plans to retire.
At 77 years old, he was still coming to the store nearly every day, working alongside Jerry, his dearest friend and employee of 20 years. Jerry bought her first pair of winter boots from Williams Shoe Store when she arrived in Canada from China 30 years ago. Ted wanted Jerry to keep Williams Shoe Store open and we’re thrilled that Jerry will continue the legacy.
The store was Ted’s passion and Queen West was his community. Quick-witted yet patient, sarcastic but kind. A true gentleman, Ted was sharp, humble and wise.
Ted passed away after a private battle with cancer. He was truly honoured to be part of this community.
The prayer service for Theodore will be held at 6:00pm on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at Cardinal Funeral Home-Bathurst Location
Visitation
February 12, 2023
Cardinal Funeral Homes - Bathurst Chapel
03:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Prayers to take place at 6:00 p.m.
Service
February 13, 2023
St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish
11:00 AM
Cremation
 
Evergreen Crematorium