Norman “Bud” Purves, long-serving president of the York University Development Corporation (YUDC), died on Aug. 11 at age 76.
Purves held the role of YUDC president beginning in 2002 and oversaw a period of significant growth and transformation at York University. His leadership helped the University realize substantial value from its real estate assets, contributing to the development of campus infrastructure and long-term planning initiatives. His work supported York’s broader institutional goals and helped shape the University's physical and strategic landscape.
While under his leadership, YUDC played a significant role in many transformational projects at York, including: the TTC subway expansion to Vaughan; the Quad Student Housing; the York Lion's Stadium (originally the PanAm 2015 Athletics Stadium); and Markham Campus, together with a new Campus Master Plan and City of Toronto Secondary Plan for Keele Campus.
Purves was behind the design of the York Research Tower – the first building on York’s Keele Campus to receive a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification in 2010.
In addition to his role at YUDC, Purves held executive positions at CN Rail, Trizec Hahn, the CN Tower and the Sorbara Group. He also served as board Chair of Toronto Community Housing for seven years and held leadership roles at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), including two years as Chair of the hospital board.
Purves’ career in real estate development spanned decades and included projects across North America.
A graduate of Colgate University, Purves was a lifelong athlete. He taught sailing, played hockey and ran more than 25 marathons. He was also a pilot – earning his license at age 16 – and spent summers flying floatplanes in northern Ontario.
Purves is survived by his spouse, Janet Palmer; children Thomas Purves and Arianne Purves Mitchell; and grandchildren Bryce, Heather Purves Mitchell and Evelyn Purves. He is also remembered by his extended family and friends.