Honest Ed: 1914-2007

Edwin Mirvish, also known as ‘Honest Ed,’ died this morning of natural causes. He was 92.

Mirvish, originally from Colonial Beach, Virginia moved to Toronto in 1923, and in 1948 cashed his wife's life insurance policy and opened Honest Ed's Bargain Emporium. The discount store at the corner of Bloor and Bathurst streets grew to fill the entire block, and has become a popular tourist attraction as well as a great no-frills outlet for consumers.

Mirvish, was also known for his immense generosity which was witnessed annually with his free holiday turkey giveaways. Not to mention the legendary Ed Mirvish birthday bashes at the store that featured free food, entertainment, and children’s rides.

In 1962 Honest Ed started down another career path when he purchased Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre, saving it from demolition. The purchase would later ignite a rebirth of the King Street West area and offer an outlet for professional theatre.

In 1982, the Mirvishes purchased London’s Old Vic theatre followed by building the Princess of Wales Theatre in 1993, and in 2001 Mirvish Enterprises took over the running Pantages Theatre (now Canon Theatre).

The following news release has been issued by the Office of the Premier of Ontario.

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Premier offers condolences to Mirvish family

Ottawa - Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty today released the following statement regarding the passing of Ed Mirvish:

"As Premier of Ontario, and on behalf of 13 million Ontarians, it is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Ed Mirvish, a dynamic entrepreneur, generous philanthropist and devoted family man. Our thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.

“Ed Mirvish loved Toronto and had great pride for our province. From the landmark store at Bloor and Bathurst to his leadership in rejuvenating live theatre in Toronto, he made the community more vibrant and more prosperous.

“His greatest reward in achieving success was the opportunity it gave him to help others. For decades, he helped countless families enjoy the holidays by donating food to those in need. In doing so, he set an example for corporate giving that was ahead of its time.

“His community service earned him the highest official honours, such as the Order of Canada. But to so many people he will be remembered for the simple qualities he showed every day - generous, hard-working and, most of all, honest.

“Honest Ed will be greatly missed, but always fondly remembered."

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