It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of John Alfred Westlake, who died peacefully on September 4, 2025, at the age of 77.
John was born on October 8, 1947, in Belleville and grew up on the family farm in Carrying Place, Ontario. He was predeceased by his parents, Marie (née Millman) and Ernie Westlake, who instilled in him a strong sense of duty and service.
Answering the same call to serve that inspired his father, John joined the Royal Canadian Navy immediately after high school. He went on to enjoy a commendable 37-year career, serving in posts around the world. His leadership, professionalism, and steady hand earned him the respect of all who served with him. He retired with honour at the rank of Commander, leaving behind a proud and decorated legacy.
In retirement, John shared many wonderful years with his beloved wife Meredith, who sadly passed away in 2017. Together, they travelled extensively, spent cherished time with friends, and remained deeply involved in the lives of their sons and grandchildren.
John is lovingly remembered by his sons, Scott (Marisa) and Craig (Nicole), and will be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Emma, Keira, Charlotte, Aidan, and Owen. He is also survived by his younger brothers, Stephen (Jana) and Dennis (Vicki), his brother-in-law Stephen (Christine), and many extended family members.
John was blessed with the enduring friendship and support of many dear companions from his Navy career and from his years living in Dartmouth, Northwood (England), Ottawa, and beyond. In retirement, he found great joy on the golf course and treasured his time with friends at Hylands Golf Club, where camaraderie and laughter were always close at hand.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate team at The Promenade Residence, where John received wonderful care in recent years, and to the dedicated staff at The Montfort Hospital, who looked after him with dignity and kindness in his final days.
John will be laid to rest beside his beloved Meredith at Beechwood Military Cemetery, a place of honour befitting a life defined by service, loyalty, and love.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a veterans organization or a charity of your choice in John's memory.
He will be remembered always—with pride, with affection, and with profound gratitude.
Digital Guestbook
We are so sorry for your…
Myrna Robar
Sending my sincere sympathy Craig and Scott.
Myrna
Frances MacKnight
Condolences for your loss, Craig and Scott. We never stop missing your Mum.
Craig Westlake
Thank you to all for the love, emotions and feelings. He was a great strong man that will be greatly missed. Goodbye Dad.
Beth Currie Shier
On behalf of myself and my family, I express sincere condolences. John and Meredith were my God Parents. My Dad trained at ROTP and served with John; and my Mom was Meredith’s nursing school roomie. John could be a gruff guy, typical of Naval officers like John and my own Dad, but when I was about 10, my family went to his house for our regular pizza night (back when the military wives made homemade pizza once a week) and I was sick. I fell asleep on the couch and John covered me up with a blanket and made sure I was as comfy as possible. This was the gentle side he didn’t often show. I wish I’d shared that memory with him when I visited him a few years ago. I’m raising a glass to John, knowing he and my Dad (LCDR David Currie) are reminiscing right now about their world travels together and especially their time together on the HMCS Margaree. Hugs to my God-brothers, Scott and Craig and their families.
Christine Jannasch
I will remember John for a life lived his way, without complaint. Being from the Maritimes myself, I saw in him the dignified solitude of a ship’s captain, taking responsibility for his choices. I think of him as a leader who did not look for adulation, and someone who did not waste words on matters too complex or too trivial to express. A sharp observer, his dry comments about my actions were a thought provoking challenge. I miss him.
Louise. Manny Soberal
John faced every possible challenge in later years, but thankfully just went to sleep.Rest easy John. Condolences to Scott, Craig and their families.
ROBERT TREMBLAY
Our deepest sympathy to John's family. He was a wonderful man. I share many fond memories of John, may he rest in peace.
Stephen King
I joined Margaree in Jan 1974 fresh out of the Training Squadron. John was Weapons Officer and my boss for the next year (Ron Buck was his other SLt)(CO Bob George). What a learning experience which stood me in good stead for my career. He was tough but caring! I never understood why he was nicknamed "mudpie". Fair winds John. Rest in peace.
Sam & Faylene Lowrie
Scott, Craig & families, our heart aches for all of you. Your Dad was a unique & special man, & we loved him because of it.
Our deepest sympathy. Hugs to all.
Sam & Faylene
We are so sorry for your loss Scott & Marisa.
Clark Allore & Jen Tindall