On Monday, January 25, 2021, held in the arms of one of the many people who loved him, surrounded by the ferocious love of his family, and with the 20th Century Fox theme song playing in the background, Toby left this world, at the tender age of 4. While devastated, his family acknowledge that it was time for him – with his quirky sense of humour and the twinkle in his eye – to complete his earthly journey and reconnect with those waiting for him on the other side.
Toby was an inspiration and purpose to his mom Lindsay (Bloch) and his dad John Seitz. He was the little brother and constant entertainer of Evan Bloch.
He will be missed dearly by his grandma and grandpa Teresa and Michael Bloch, who both will be lost without their daily smiles, floor games, and the chance to hear what might come out of Toby’s mouth next. Wrapped around his finger and the bringer of books and crafts, and usually the instigator of mischief was his aunt Erin (ReeRee) Bloch. Together they shared a unique connection that was full of gentle jabs, daily visits, and irreplaceable memories. Toby’s special bond with his cousins Ryan and Cameron Brooks will not be forgotten. He will be remembered fondly by his grandparents Brenda Seitz and Skip Epps, and his many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Everyone in the Bloch, Brooks, and Seitz families will miss the smiles and laughter Toby brought to them.
Toby made an impact on the lives of all he met. He taught them to laugh at the little things, smile through the hard things, and that family is the most important thing of all. He battled his health for more than half of his life, but he would not allow his struggles or limitations to become his legacy. Toby will be remembered as a little guy with a big personality (with a super cool flamingo hat to match), a lover of scary movies and their characters, and a curator of some of the most unique and entertaining video clips available on YouTube. While the thought of his departure is unbearable, it is abundantly clear that the spark he added to the lives of those he touched is worth the heartache they feel today.
While the list of incredible people that consistently went above and beyond their call of duty is abundant, sincere and special appreciation is extended to: Dr. Marta Wilejto, Dr. Alexandra Zorzi, nurses Jessie Wong and Lisa Pearlman, the Oncology and Transplant teams at SickKids, Toronto, the remarkable humans at Children’s Hospital, London – PMDU and 6th floor, Auntie Chelle, and Rev. Bill Ward.
Donations to the TLC Foundation or Childcan would be appreciated by the family.
And, just at the moment when someone says, “There, he is gone,”
there are other eyes watching him coming, and other voices
ready to take up the glad shout, “Here he comes!”
Walter and Carol Mackowski says
Dear Teresa Toby’s obituary was a beautiful message of the joy he brought to your family in such a short time. You are richer for having had him in your lives.
Mary kindly sent us a link to the notice after I had been speaking with her. Carol and Walter
Cara Brass says
Toby
You’ve been so strong. You’ve found joy in pain and have been inspiring.
Your journey isn’t over, you will live on in so many hearts.
Rest in the arms of angels
Mary Colquhoun-Nind says
✝️Dear Teri, Michael & all your Families✡️
Another week has come and gone since you kissed Toby ‘Good-bye’.
He has passed with great love and gratitude into the arms of those waiting for him. His lifetime may not have been long enough for those who loved and cared for him, but he packed his four years full to the brim ..little ‘old soul’ that he was…
In our humanity, it all strikes deep to the core of our existence.
Grief felt is a tribute to the JOY Toby brought to your lives.
God bless and keep you in His care at this difficult time and always.
Love,
🙏Mary, Scott & Wendy
Cheryl Harnack says
Dear Teresa and family,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your special grandson Toby. Memories are always within our heart. Cheryl
Carolyn Leith says
My sincere sympathy to the family. My heart aches for you, what a precious child.
Gayle Sadler says
Teresa – so sorry to hear of your so significant loss of Toby. Especially during this time of isolation and the inability to grieve together.
Sending you all my strength and love to you and your family.
Love – Gayle
Rose Bailey says
Dear Terrie and family,
So sorry to learn about your loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this journey.
Rose and Lorne
Vivian and Christiane McAlister says
Dear Michael and Teresa,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You supported Toby with unlimited love throughout his heroic struggle just as you continue to care for Lindsay. Young Toby gave you all a lifetime of joy in such a short time and happy memories that will last forever. We look forward to the end of the pandemic when we can see each other again in person.
Myles Cohen says
Michael and family:
There are no words to express this loss. I know you were so passionate about seeing Toby through this struggle and I’m sure your never ending love comforted him more than you will ever know. I’m so glad we reconnected after decades and decades of not being in touch through Facebook. Hopefully those of us that are Rimer descendants can continue to keep our communication going. Again, condolences to all and may Toby’s life be a blessing.
Micheal Yates says
It’s always heart breaking to lose a loved one but tragic when that loved one is just at the beginning of their life.
My deepest sympathy and condolences on your loss Lindsay…
Tho Toby may be gone in body, he shall always remain in spirt, your memories and your heart and soul…
Judith Kutt says
Michael and Teresa
Toby put up a valiant fight.you will miss Toby and his smiles desperately.My Thoughts are with you.
Judy
Keith and Gwen Coulbeck says
Sorry to hear about the passing of your precious little boy Toby. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Regards Keith and Gwen Coulbeck
Harvey Reinblatt says
He will be forever remembered by those who loved him.
Valerie Wade says
Holding you all close in my thoughts and prayers. I’m so sorry for your loss. Any time I see a flamingo, a smile will cross my face as I remember Toby- his dimple when he smiled, his shenanigans, and his devoted family. It was a privelege to be part of his journey.
Miriam Epstein says
There are no words. I am thinking of you. Auntie Miriam
Gerald Rimer says
My Dear Michael
Words fail me to express my sympathy to you & your wife. I don’t think we have ever met since I left Montreal in 1971.
Esther & I grew up together & we met at all Family gatherings. At that time the only interest I had in life was to play Basketball!
Needless to say we met at all family gatherings!
I can’t think of anything worse that could happen in a family than what occurred recently!!
I’m old; 88!!, and living in Switzerland for much longer than I lived in Montreal.
I have 4 sons & 10 grandchildren! Unfortunately my late wife did all the work & I got all the pleasure. She died at the age of 47.
Michael I consider you & yours as part of my family; and please remember that if I could be of assistance to you & yours; please don’t hesitate to contact us!
With best regards in the future; it can’t be worse than the past!!
With sympathy
With love
Ger
Gerald Rimer
Dan & SJ says
Holding you all in love and strength at this heartbreaking time and always.
Mary Lou and Michael Hills says
We send all Toby’s families love and sincere sympathies .
Barb Van Larkin says
My deepest sympathy to all of Toby’s family. I never had the the privilege of meeting him but felt like I knew through all the posts and pictures. What a little warrior. He’s definitely wearing wings and a halo- maybe just a little tilted!! Love and prayers to all of you.