A Tribute to Marvin Teperman
June 09, 2025
The demolition industry in Ontario — and across North America — mourns the loss of a true trailblazer with the passing of Marvin Teperman. A highly respected contractor, expert technician and visionary leader, Marvin’s contributions to the demolition sector are immeasurable and enduring.
As one of the founding members of the Ontario Association of Demolition Contractors (OADC), Marvin played an instrumental role in formalizing and elevating the demolition profession in Ontario. His leadership helped shape the association’s direction, advocacy efforts and commitment to industry excellence. He was a voice of integrity, strategy and fairness in countless discussions that continue to benefit today’s contractors.
Early in his career, Marvin co-founded with Bill Greenspoon the Metro Toronto House Wreckers Association, the original bargaining unit to enter into labour negotiations on behalf of all wreckers. The association was later renamed the Metropolitan Toronto Demolition Contractors Association (MTDCA) before ultimately becoming the Ontario Association of Demolition Contractors (OADC). Marvin and Bill became key figures in industry labor negotiations, advocating for demolition contractors with clarity and resolve.
Marvin was also a charter member of the National Demolition Association and an acknowledged explosives expert with the International Society of Explosives Engineers. His deep technical knowledge, combined with his ability to lead, negotiate and teach, earned him the respect of peers across Canada and internationally.
Marvin was not only a business leader but a generous mentor. He shared his time and expertise with many of today’s top demolition professionals, including Shawn Murray (Philip Environmental/Murray Demolition), the Santaguida family (Delsan) and the Priestlys, imparting the knowledge and strategies necessary to execute complex projects safely and effectively. He was known as one of the most experienced “wreckers” in the industry — a man who understood both the science and the art of demolition.
Marvin Teperman leaves behind a legacy rooted in professionalism, mentorship and vision. His commitment to safety, innovation and industry collaboration set a standard that continues to guide the work of OADC members and demolition contractors across Canada.
We extend our sincere condolences to Marvin’s children, Sandra, Sean and Stuart; his family; industry friends; and all those he impacted throughout his extraordinary career. His legacy lives on in the foundations of our industry and in the many professionals he helped shape along the way.
Memorial donations may be made to Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, 416-946-6560, www.thepmcf.ca/donate, or St. Michael's Hospital Kidney Transplant Division, Attn: Dr. Jeffery Perl www.stmichaelsfoundation.com 416-864-5000.
