Terry Watkinson, the acclaimed Canadian musician, artist, and illustrator, best known as the keyboardist for the iconic rock band Max Webster, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 28, 2026, at the age of 86. His daughter, Chloe Watkinson, shared the news, highlighting the profound impact her father had on those around him. Watkinson's multifaceted career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on Canadian music and art.

Born in 1940 in what is now Thunder Bay, Ontario, Watkinson's early life was rooted in the northern Ontario landscape that would later inspire much of his visual art. He initially pursued architecture at the University of Toronto, where he spent two years honing skills in structure and precision. However, his passion for music soon led him down a different path, ultimately shaping his public persona.

In February 1974, Watkinson joined Max Webster, a Toronto-based rock band that would achieve significant success in Canada and gain a cult following internationally. As the keyboardist, he was integral to the band's distinctive sound, blending hard rock with progressive elements and a unique sense of humor. He contributed to the band's extensive touring throughout North America and Europe, performing to sold-out audiences and helping them achieve six gold and platinum albums.

Among his notable contributions to Max Webster, Watkinson penned and sang the band's first hit, "Let Go the Line," from their 1979 album "A Million Vacations," a song that remains a beloved classic among fans. His musical talent extended beyond the keyboards, as he was also known for his vocal contributions and songwriting prowess within the group.

Following Max Webster's dissolution in 1981, Watkinson returned to the University of Toronto, demonstrating his intellectual curiosity and versatility by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Illustration. He subsequently taught surgical illustration and perspective drawing for the university's Biomedical Communications program, with his detailed illustrations appearing in numerous medical textbooks and journals.

Watkinson eventually transitioned his focus to fine art painting, drawing upon his diverse background in architecture, music, and scientific illustration. His paintings, often stylized landscapes of northern Ontario, are characterized by their brilliant sense of light, depth, and emotion, and were regularly featured in gallery exhibitions. He also lent his artistic talents to other projects, notably painting the cover for Klaatu's 1993 compilation album, "Peaks."

Even in later years, Watkinson remained active in music, releasing a solo album titled "Ask" and continuing to perform. His legacy with Max Webster was further cemented in 2023 when the band was inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame, a testament to their enduring influence on Canadian rock music. Terry Watkinson will be remembered as a true Canadian original, a gifted musician and artist whose creative spirit enriched the lives of many.