Cindy & Ross Todd

2026 Markham Honourees

Poised lovingly together outside of the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Markham Stouffville Hospital, Cindy and Ross Todd rarely step into any kind of spotlight. They have built a legacy that extends far beyond business success, rooted in generosity, humility, and a deep commitment to community. As the founders of Todd Brothers Contracting Limited, they have spent more than 45 years serving Markham, Stouffville and the surrounding greater Toronto area, guided by Ross’s belief that strong communities and successful businesses go hand in hand.

As a child, you could almost always find Ross in his mother’s garden, surrounded by his Tonka toys and machines.  In many ways, Ross is still that little boy, and he refers to his success in business as, “More than 45 years in the sandbox!”  The couple was married in 1986 and while Cindy worked full-time elsewhere, she managed the house and the office, which meant calling in to check for new messages (from her full-time job) and then calling Ross to update him on any new work requests.  Those early days of Todd Brother’s General Contracting were long and busy – Cindy would be home on the weekends, and Ross carried on with his 7-day work week.  Together, they built the business, slowly and steadily from just the two of them, full of hope, dreams and ambition, into what it is today, employing more than 85 skilful people and with over 160 pieces of equipment and vehicles – full-size scale, because Ross and his crew are big boys now.

Their support of Ronald McDonald House Charities is among their most meaningful contributions. A tour of the Family Room at Markham Stouffville Hospital left a lasting impression, showing them firsthand how the space offers comfort to families during difficult times—whether for rest, a shower, or a moment of peace. Encounters with those who have used the room have only strengthened their belief in giving where they can see a direct impact.

For over three decades, the Todds have also supported the Terry Fox Run, inspired by Terry Fox’s enduring legacy. Through their company, they have donated and distributed water bottles each year, quietly contributing to a cause that unites Canadians.

Though deeply committed to giving, Cindy and Ross prefer to remain private, motivated not by recognition but by a genuine desire to give back. They believe every act of giving matters—and hope their example encourages others to make a difference in their own communities.

Story Credit:

Meave Mastracci is the Owner of Ascend Services and a community-focused writer with over 25 years of experience helping local businesses grow. She specializes in community engagement, community give-back initiatives, and improving online presence through social media marketing, website design, Google verification and management, and the development of printed promotional materials. Her work—both in writing and business—champions good people, good businesses, and good organizations.  Contact: mmastracci@ascendalliance.ca