Canadian billionaire Barry Sherman, the founder of generic-drug maker Apotex, and his wife, Honey, a prominent philanthropist, were found dead Friday at their Toronto home. Police said both died from ligature neck compression and described the deaths as suspicious. Homicide detectives took over the investigation, but police had not officially classified the deaths as a homicide.

A real estate agent discovered the couple’s bodies hanging from a railing near their indoor pool, according to reports. Police said there were no signs of forced entry and no outstanding suspects the public should be concerned about. Some media outlets reported that investigators were considering a murder-suicide theory, but the couple’s four adult children rejected the suggestion, saying it was inconsistent with their parents’ enthusiasm for life and commitment to family and community.

The deaths shocked friends and colleagues. Less than a week earlier, Honey Sherman had emailed friends about the couple’s annual trip to Florida and plans to get together there. The Shermans had recently welcomed a grandchild and listed their North York home for approximately $7 million.

Barry Sherman, 75, founded Apotex in 1974 and built it into a major international generic-drug company. Canadian Business recently estimated his wealth at $4.77 billion, ranking him the 15th-richest person in Canada. Friends described him as reserved and intensely devoted to his work. Toronto Mayor John Tory praised his investment in the city and the jobs his company created.

Honey Sherman, 70, was remembered as warm, sociable and determined in her charitable work. The couple donated millions to hospitals, universities and Jewish organizations. She served on boards including those of York University, the Baycrest Foundation and Mount Sinai Hospital, and held leadership roles in Toronto’s Jewish community.

Tributes came from public figures, friends and former employees, while neighbours and well-wishers left flowers outside the couple’s home.