Senator Frank O’Connor Founder of Laura Secord Chocolates

On my walk through the hilly grounds of Mt. Hope Cemetery in Toronto, I discovered the grave of the founder of Laura Secord Chocolates and former Senator, Frank Patrick O’Connor — affectionately known as “King Candy.”

In 1913, Frank O’Connor opened the first Laura Secord Candy Shop at 354 Yonge Street in downtown Toronto. 

A visionary entrepreneur, O’Connor was the first candy manufacturer in the world to introduce profit-sharing with employees — an unheard-of concept at the time.

Many Torontonians will recognize O’Connor Drive, named in his honour, which winds east and south of the Don Valley Parkway.

In 1969, the O’Connor family sold Laura Secord to John Labatt Limited, keeping the brand in Canadian hands until 1983. Today, this iconic brand has returned to Canadian ownership after being acquired from a U.S.-based private equity firm.

In the early 1930’s Frank O’Connor had become wealthy enough to purchase 600 acres of land north west of Lawrence Avenue and Victoria Park, Toronto. Photos of his home and coach house he called, Maryvale. 

Senator Frank O’Connor died at his Maryvale farm in Toronto on August 21, 1939. He was 54.

1885-1939