“What Does a Butler Do?”

I was born in Vancouver BC but I grew up in Toronto after my parents moved the family East. I attended Trinity College, University of Toronto, and graduated with a degree in Philosophy. After a brief stint as an assistant in elementary Special Education, I spent two years in England studying Theology.

I returned to Canada and began my teaching career. After 27 years teaching high school English – mostly Grade 12 and Grade 9 Special Education – I retired in 2012 and moved to Stratford.

I also hold a Masters’ Degree in English from the University of Toronto. In September 2012, I began my butler training at The International Butler Academy in the Netherlands. Originally, this was an eight-week training. The administration saw potential at a time when they needed a new Head Butler, and halfway through the training asked me if I would take up the position. I agreed and as Head Butler I trained classes and was private butler to the Academy owner. In this position, I travelled extensively in Europe, and to China and South Africa.

After returning, I worked at Rundles Restaurant for three seasons until it closed in 2017. I began at The Prune Restaurant the next summer and have continued there ever since. I also work at private catered events as principal service coordinator. After assisting at numerous special events, I joined the staff of the Stratford Chef School as a permanent service instructor in September 2021.

I am also a member of the Grand Philharmonic Choir and the GPC Chamber Singers in Kitchener Waterloo.