In Passing: Frank Tofin

Retired Architect Frank Peter Tofin passed away on December 27, 2012 at the age of 92.  Born in the North Bend, British Columba in 1920, Frank inherited a passion for design and construction from his father, a builder for the railroad. With the approach of World War II, he enlisted in the armed service where his natural skills as a mechanical draftsman were put to use as a project engineer and, eventually, architectural draftsman. He also served as an instructor for the School of Military Engineering.  Upon leaving the service in 1946, Frank found work with architectural firms in Winnipeg and, later, Kamloops. In 1952, he joined Vancouver’s McCarter Nairne and Partners as an architectural draftsman and specifications writer. In 1958, he moved to W.R. Ussner Architect before being hired by Thompson Berwick & Pratt Architects in 1959. It was with this background that Frank sought professional membership with the AIBC through alternative qualifications. He was made a member of the institute in 1960. In the years that followed, he contributed to the architectural fabric of Vancouver and, especially, Richmond. He received his RAIC Certification in 1978, and took on Retired Architect status in 1994. In addition to his career, Frank was also passionate about golf, bridge, and the restoration of violins. Predeceased by his wife Rose, he is survived by his daughters Arlene, Carole, Janet and Debbie. A Celebration of his life for family and friends will take place on July 20.