Remembering Guy Upjohn

Guy Upjohn's love of the natural world helped shape the Upjohn Nature Reserve

The Muskoka Conservancy is remembering Guy Warner Upjohn (1932–2026), whose passion for the natural world helped create the Upjohn Nature Reserve.


Guy and his wife Sandra shared a lifelong love of nature and adventure. Years ago, they purchased a property near Bracebridge that they called “The Stone House.” The land—150 acres of bush, wetlands, and beaver ponds—was both rugged and beautiful. The house itself came with challenges: no electricity, no running water, and an interior in need of serious repair. For Guy, however, this was an opportunity.

Guy Upjohn

A skilled maker and problem-solver, he relished restoring the building and caring for the property. Over the years, Guy and his family spent countless days exploring the forests and ponds, getting to know the plants, animals, and seasonal rhythms of the land.


That experience inspired an important decision. Wanting to ensure the landscape would remain protected and accessible to others, Guy and Sandra worked to have much of the property conserved. Their generosity ultimately led to the creation of the Upjohn Nature Reserve, now protected as part of the Muskoka Conservancy and open to the public.


For visitors walking its trails today, the reserve stands as a living reflection of the Upjohn family’s commitment to stewardship.


Guy lived a life marked by curiosity, creativity, and service. After a career in the Canadian book manufacturing industry with the Hunter Rose Company, he devoted many years to volunteer work in the book arts community and at Trinity College, University of Toronto. He also remained deeply engaged with environmental protection and local community initiatives.


Whether rebuilding a house, producing a piece of printed ephemera, or helping protect a landscape he loved, Guy approached each task with determination, humour, and generosity.


We are grateful to Guy and Sandra for helping ensure that this special piece of Muskoka will remain protected for generations to come. The Upjohn Nature Reserve continues to welcome visitors who wish to experience the forests, wetlands, and wildlife that meant so much to him.


Our sincere condolences go out to Sandra and the entire Upjohn family.


A celebration of life is taking place on Sunday (April 19) from 2:30 - 5:00 pm at Combination Room at Trinity College, University of Toronto. 

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