Obituary of Arthur Newton Ley

Arthur Newton Ley passed away peacefully on April 22, 2024 in his 86th year at Rideaucrest Home in Kingston. Survived by his life partner of 38 years Joyce Kelsey. Remembered by his children Jim (Ingrid), Larry (Karin Heinsch) and David (Rebecca Smollett) as well as their mother Janice; and his step-children Marie-Claire Bujold and Katherine Bujold and Terri Logan. Cherished by his grandchildren Mathew, Andrew, Sofi, Daniel, Josie, Abraham and Yohanna. Arthur will be missed by his brothers-in-law Garry (Debbie) and Murray (Linda) Kelsey. Predeceased by his parents Margaret (nee Scott) and Joseph Ley, as well as his sister Donna. A huge thank you to the dedicated and caring staff of Rideaucrest Home (4^th Floor) for their 15 years of trusted support of Art in his daily life.

Arthur’s academic achievements included a Ph.D in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota, and a M.Sc. and a B.Sc. from the University of Guelph. He was a passionate advocate for environmental issues and dedicated many years of his life working for the Ministry of the Environment. His expertise was sought after in the academic world, where he served as an adjunct professor at Queen’s University, Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology, and a professor at St. Lawrence College, Environmental Microbiology. A Sigma Xi member, Arthur was an expert witness in several court proceedings and a speaker at water quality conferences. His most notable professional achievement was the development of a rapid test for E.Coli in water samples, which was adopted by the Ontario, Ministry of Health and Ministry of the Environment and the United States, Environmental Protection Agency.

Arthur led a vibrant life beyond his professional accomplishments. He found solace in the outdoors, indulging in gardening, hiking, cycling, canoeing, and swimming. His creative side shone through his amateur music, local theatre performances (Theatre Five, Domino), and watercolour paintings. He meticulously traced his family's genealogy, leaving a rich legacy for future generations. However, his greatest joy and pride were his family, both past and present. His absence will be deeply felt.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 27th at 2:30pm at the Cataraqui Cemetery (927 Purdy’s Mill Road). Reception to follow. For those attending, please meet at the cemetery office for 2:15pm. Donations in Arthur’s memory may be directed to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to Rideaucrest Home.