Renata Ford, the widow of former Toronto mayor Rob Ford, has passed away at the age of 55. Her death was announced by her brother-in-law, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, in a statement to reporters on Monday night.
Renata leaves behind her son Dougie and her daughter Stephanie, who serves as an executive vice-president for the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party. A cause of death has not been released, and the family is asking for respect of their privacy during this difficult time.
Renata was married to Rob in 2000 and remained by his side until his death in 2016, after a year-long battle with cancer. During that time, Rob served as mayor of Toronto from 2010 to 2014, and Renata was his constant support as he dealt with addiction issues and his cancer diagnosis.
After Rob's decision against serving a second term as mayor, he opted to run for council instead, winning back his old seat in Etobicoke North. He previously served as councillor for this area from 2000 to 2010.
Renata also attempted to enter federal politics in 2019, running for the People's Party of Canada in Etobicoke North. She finished fourth in the race, which was eventually won by a Liberal candidate.
