Harvey Kalles, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd., passed away on Wednesday, July 9, according to both a funeral notice posted by Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel. An Instagram post from his brokerage confirmed the news later this evening.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Harvey Kalles, who passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family," said the chapel.
"Harvey shared 66 extraordinary years of marriage with the love of his life, Elise, whom he affectionately called his 'little woman.' Their deep bond and unwavering devotion to one another served as a shining example of partnership, love, and joy. Together, they built a life rooted in family, tradition, and an abiding love that inspired all who knew them. Harvey was an adored brother and brother-in-law to Grace & Dave Horenfeld (z"l") and Lily (z"l") & Ben Friedman (z"l"), Albert and Cecile Sliwin (z"l"), Bernard and Paulette Sliwin (z"l") and loved by all his nieces and nephews."
"Harvey's proudest accomplishment was his family," the notice continued. "He was a devoted Father and Father-in-law to Corinne (Joey z"l") & partner Stephen, Shawna (Jeff), and Michael (Dana) & partner Waleuska. He was the most fun and loving grandfather to Jana (Jeremy), Jake (Jordyn), Ali (Zachary). Russell, Melanie (Ave) Olivia, Moriah, Emma, and Ace. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren: Joey, Harry, Estelle, and Levi."
"Harvey will be remembered not only for his devotion to his family but for the integrity and generosity with which he lived his life. He was admired, respected, and above all, deeply loved. He lived a full life - surrounded by love, grounded in values, and forever etched in the hearts of those he leaves behind."
Another one of Kalles' biggest accomplishments was undoubtedly his namesake real estate brokerage, which he founded in 1957. Harvey Kalles Real Estate Ltd. now boasts a roster of over 300 real estate agents — making it one of the largest independent brokerages in the country — that together accounted for over $10 billion in sales from 2021 to 2023, according to the brokerage's website.
The brokerage currently has seven offices across the Greater Toronto Area and cottage country. The firm was led by Kalles as CEO along with his son, Michael, who has held the title of President for over 34 years. The brokerage has long been a member of the Luxury Portfolio International network of luxury real estate firms and is also home to a commercial division.
The Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel is holding the funeral for Kalles at 2:00 pm on Thursday, July 10, after which a family shiva will be observed.
