We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of illustrator and cartoonist Bob Kain. Bob was known for creating the character of Chirp for Owlkids’ Chirp magazine. In addition to illustrating for the magazine, he also illustrated a series of Chirp books for the publisher.
Bob has been surrounded by his loving family: wife of 61 years, Evelyn and three children, Liz (Anne Louise), Rob (Lynn), and Patti. Grandpa to Dan (Emilia), Gavin and Rose. Great-Grandpa to Ariella and Aaliyah. Predeceased by his parents, Lyle and Betty and sister, Patricia. He leaves his brothers, Alan, Brian and Gary. To say that Bob had many friends would be an understatement. They ranged from 3 years to 90. His great love of cartooning took him to study at The Ontario College of Art, and then to New York City to attend The School of Visual Arts. For 35 years he ran Videoart, a commercial art studio in Toronto which was also one of Toronto’s earliest animation studios. When Bob was in his late 60s he began a second act in his career as an illustrator for a much loved Canadian children’s magazine. He cartooned his way through his 70s into his early 80s, at the same time teaching students of all ages to draw. His wife Evelyn, Jazz, Steam engines, cartooning (again!) all held him up during his life. Bob Kain; the mold was broken, a prince among men, he will be missed wholeheartedly by so many people. Donations to the Daily Bread Food Bank, 416-203-0050.
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