Kevin Woolridge, 74
Meet Kevin Woolridge, 74
Kevin’s story began in the familiar landscape of Mundy Pond, St. John’s, as the third of five siblings. From an early age, he showed a dependable nature, becoming the natural “go-to” person for his brothers and sisters, always ready to lend a hand. His practical skills were evident even then, prompting his mother to joke that he must have been born with a hammer in hand.
After a two-year stint in the regular Army and a couple of years working on a friend’s farm in Saskatchewan, the pull of Newfoundland brought Kevin back home. It was at a local dance that his life took another significant turn. Anne remembers spotting him across the crowded floor, a striking figure with a big black moustache. “I was sunk,” she recalls. He walked her home that night, a chaste peck on the cheek marking the beginning of a love story. That high school romance led to a lifetime together, 48 years of marriage and counting. Kevin’s work ethic matched the steadfastness of his love. A carpenter by trade, he’s tried his hand at everything from mechanics to plumbing and electrical work. Even now, in his senior years, he can’t quite put down his tools. His days are filled with helping others, whether it’s fixing a leaky window, clearing snow, or lending a hand with repairs. Often, his only payment is the satisfaction of knowing he made a difference.
Sports, particularly baseball and his beloved Toronto Blue Jays, have always been a passion. Kevin excelled in many games, with shelves full of trophies from running, diving, bowling, darts, and softball. His own playing days came to an abrupt end after a circular saw accident cost him some fingers, leaving rods in their place. Still, summer days often find him at the local ball field, a wistful spectator longing to be back in the game.
Life hasn’t been easy. Kevin has faced back surgery, colon surgery, a serious hand injury, a chainsaw accident requiring nose surgery, diabetes, two heart attacks, and even skin cancer. Through it all, he shields Anne and his family from the weight of his struggles, always putting their comfort before his own.
Now, living on a modest pension, a long-held dream of seeing the Blue Jays in person had felt increasingly out of reach. Anne’s heart ached with the desire to give him a moment of pure joy, a reward for a lifetime of giving. Kevin’s kindness touches everyone he meets: his brothers, his sons, his friends, and of course, his devoted wife. He is a pillar of support, quietly carrying burdens while spreading comfort and care.
Finally, that dream became a reality. Kevin traveled to see the Blue Jays with his son, sharing a father-and-son experience they’ll always remember. The energy of the crowd, the excitement of the game, and the simple joy of being there together made it a day to cherish. While the Jays didn’t take home the win that day, the time spent side by side made the experience unforgettable. For his son, Kevin, it was more than just a trip, it was a chance to give back, to share meaningful time together, and to celebrate the man who had given so much to everyone around him. “It truly meant the world to be able to spend that time with my father,” his son said, a reflection of the love and gratitude they share.
For Kevin, the simple thrill of watching his team play in person was more than a wish fulfilled; it was a moment of joy, connection, and recognition for a life spent caring for others. It was a day he would treasure forever, a memory etched not just in his mind, but in the heart of his family, a fitting tribute to a devoted husband, a loving father, and a steadfast Newfoundlander.
Special Thanks: Wesben Global, Toronto Blue Jays, and Fairmont Royal York
Photography: Kochanka Visuals
