Andy Donato Obituary, Toronto, ON Death – Friends Mourn Beloved Cartoonist and Golfer

Andy Donato, the celebrated Canadian editorial cartoonist and painter, has died at the age of 89, leaving friends, colleagues and admirers mourning the loss of a distinctive voice in Canadian art and journalism.

Born in 1937, Donato built a remarkable career spanning more than six decades. He began his newspaper career in 1961 and went on to become a longtime artist and editorial cartoonist with the Toronto Sun. His work became familiar to generations of readers, while his career also included painting and other artistic pursuits.

Beyond his professional life, Donato was also known for his love of golf. A 2023 profile described him as continuing to create, paint and play golf well into his eighties.

A heartfelt tribute remembered him simply as “the great Andy Donato,” noting that he died doing what he loved — playing golf. The message also recalled his jokes and unmistakable laugh, reflecting the personal affection felt by those who knew him beyond his public career.

Donato’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter for a man whose cartoons became part of Canada’s newspaper culture. His long association with Toronto journalism and his work as an artist left a lasting impression on readers and colleagues.

For those who knew him personally, however, his legacy extends beyond the drawings and decades of professional achievement. His humor, friendship and love of life are the memories that will remain closest to those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Andy Donato was 89 years old. He was born in 1937 and died in 2026.

May he rest in peace.