Ronald V. Joyce is best known as the legendary Canadian entrepreneur who, in 1964, invested in the first Tim Hortons donut shop in Hamilton, Ontario and then grew the business into one of the most successful food service chains in the world. Co-founder of the TDL Group Ltd. which licenses Tim Hortons restaurants in Canada and around the world, Mr. Joyce sold the quintessential Canadian business to Wendy’s International Inc. in 1996.

Born in Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia in 1930, Mr. Joyce won numerous awards and honors for his entrepreneurial successes, commitment to strong corporate citizenship and unwavering philanthropic work: The Order of Canada, honouring his dedication to underprivileged children and youth; induction into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame; Entrepreneur of the Year for Ontario and Canada; the Gary Wright Humanitarian Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the betterment of community life as founder of the Tim Hortons Children’s Foundation; the Canadian Franchise Association Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year Award. His achievements also earned him several awards as Philanthropist of the Year, and honorary doctoral degrees from Canadian universities including McMaster University, Queen’s University, Mount Allison University, Saint Mary’s University, Cape Breton University, Bishop’s University, University of Calgary and University of New Brunswick.

Until his passing in 2019, Mr. Joyce was actively involved in The Joyce Family Foundation, as well as his Hamilton-based executive charter airline company, Jetport. He divided his time between his homes in Alberta, Ontario, and Nova Scotia – the picturesque location of Fox Harb’r, his luxury golf resort. One of the world’s most magnificent five-star resorts, this 400-hectare oasis is steeped in natural beauty and rich in maritime hospitality.

Mr. Joyce brought to these latest endeavours the same work ethic, business acumen, passion and deep personal commitment behind the success of the Tim Hortons empire.

Ron Joyce passed away peacefully in his home on January 31, 2019. He will be greatly missed and his legacy of generous giving will continue to transform the lives of countless Canadians.

Ron Joyce Mini Bio

Credit: Fred Anderton, www.videobio.ca

Mohawk College