Former CAND president Willard Burton passes away

Willard Burton, a long-time Rotarian, former president of the Canadian Association of Numismatic Dealers (CAND), and a partner of the former B&W Coins & Tokens in Brampton, Ont., passed away on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024.

Willard’s passing marks the end of a significant era in Canadian numismatics, where he was a deeply respected figure for over three decades. Michael Findlay, current president of CAND, expressed his sorrow over Willard’s death. “It is with great sadness that I report the passing of CAND member and past president Willard Burton,” Findlay stated in an email sent to CAND members. “Willard was a long-time Rotarian and a key figure in our numismatic world, not only through his business, B&W Coins & Tokens but also through his active involvement at coin shows across Canada.”

In addition to his numismatic work, Willard was central to charitable efforts through the Rotary Club of Brampton, where he organized and co-sponsored a successful triannual charity coin show. The show, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2020, is described by the Rotary Club as a “first-of-its-kind” event and a reflection of Willard’s dedication to his profession and community.

“Over the 30-plus shows we have hosted, we’ve raised over $100,000,” organizers noted in a statement released to Canadian Coin News in 2020.. “That’s $100,000 the Rotary Club of Brampton has been able to put towards children’s charity initiatives, both locally and internationally.” Co-sponsored by the Rotary Club and B&W Coins & Tokens, the shows have been highly successful since their inception. Organizers credit the event’s success to “Willard’s extensive knowledge of coins and the wonderful people associated with the numismatic community,” which laid the foundation for a lasting legacy.

A photo of Willard, taken during his engaging reclassification talk in May 2018, was posted on the Brampton Rotary Club’s Facebook page.

“It was one of our top five fundraisers,” past Rotarian President Matt Samatas told CCN in a story published in 2015.  “It really gained a lot of steam,” Samatas added.  “It grew from 16 to 18 dealers at the first show to more than 24 dealers.” The club honoured Willard and his wife, Sandra, with Rotary’s highest individual award – a Paul Harris Fellow.

Willard was also a retired vice-president of Loomis Courier and regularly attended coin shows across Ontario and Western Canada. He frequently participated major events like the Royal Canadian Numismatic Association (RCNA) conventions. “Willard attended many coin shows, particularly when they were in Eastern Canada, as this allowed him to visit his family in Nova Scotia,” Findlay added.

Beyond numismatics, Willard was deeply committed to giving back to his community. “One of Willard’s greatest passions was supporting the various charities through the Rotary Club’s fundraising efforts,” said Findlay.

Willard is survived by his wife, Sandra, and children, James, Faron, Carol, Kathy, and Gail. He was predeceased by his daughter, Wendy. His legacy of service to the numismatic world and his charitable endeavours will be fondly remembered.