Went to be with his Katie on the evening of December 12, 2021. He died peacefully, with his family by his side, in Ottawa, Ontario. John is survived by his children Kath, Stu (Ann Marie), Cliff (Grace), and Val (JP). He is predeceased by his son, John.
In his last days, he relished the chance to talk to all his grandchildren across Canada and witness the joy of his great grand children.
Having served 38 years, John retired from the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1986 and then enjoyed a brief second career at General Electric Canada. He retired to his dream home with Kay in Frankford, Ontario and enjoyed retirement there and in Belleville. His last years were spent living a wonderful life at the Stirling Park Retirement Home in Ottawa, Ontario. John’s passion for music was carried through many church choirs, the Quinte Men’s Gospel Chorus, and a choir at Stirling Park. He was an avid gardener, dog lover, and was famous for his hermit cookies. He loved fishing and the outdoors.
We are so grateful to the staff of Stirling Park for making him part of their family, especially Nissa Coghlan-Kerr, who brought joy to his life daily. John’s family are so thankful for the nurses from St. Elizabeth Home Health Care and Dr. Andrew Douglas, whose care allowed him to live his life on his own terms at home until his death.
John died as he lived, surrounded by love, music, prayers, and red wine. In his last days, he talked about taking one day at a time, how we were all in his heart, and the air force motto: Per Ardua Ad Astra - through adversity to the stars. He knew he was heading to the stars as he watched his last sunset.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Beechwood Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Marena Geddes
Val and Family
I am sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I know how much he meant to you and your family. Dad's are such special people and I hope you will take comfort in the memories and the love that you shared.
Warm thoughts to you and your family.
Fiona Jager
Your Dad sounds like a really wonderful person, Val. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Bill and Antonia Chuen
We got to know John and Kate after they started coming to our pharmacy 25 or more years ago. We remember asking them for gardening advice after they had won an award for the best garden in Frankford. John and Kate offered not only their advice but also their help.
They transformed our garden-digging out weeds, planting perennials, and despite being 20 years older than us, moving 10 large stones from their own back yard for our landscaping. Our garden had never been that beautiful as when they tended it with so much love and care. All we did in return was to cook them a simple lunch.
In the years since, we became good friends and always wondered how we were so lucky to meet such a kind and generous couple.
Dear John, we are so honoured that you thought of us in your last hours of life. You and Kate will always live in our heart-we love you!
Laralea Stalkie
So sorry to hear this Val. Glad you were able to be with him so much since the summer.
Eileen De Courcy
Dear Val and family, I am very sorry for your loss. I hope you can find comfort in your memories and in the life and legacy of your father. I am thinking about you during this difficult time.
Eileen
Jennifer Haley
Dear Val & Family, I am deeply sadened to hear about the passing of your Dad. Thinking of all you during this difficult time.
Jamie Belec
Such a heart-breaking loss, Val. I can only say that your dad has clearly left his legacy behind with you, Val, along with your siblings. I can only think that he has left his lasting imprint on your life because you are a walking testament of the kind of person he must have been. #prouddad
Barry Weese
So sorry to hear about your loss, Val. Wishing you and your family best wishes during this difficult time.
Molly Anderson
Johnny and Kay our good AF friends , they gave so much love to their family and friends.
I met John at Stirling Park when I was there visiting. He had an amazing personality. Always a smile and a twinkle in his eye. He will be missed. Sorry to his family for your loss...