With great sadness we share word of John’s peaceful passing at the age of 80 with his loving and heartbroken family at his side. John and his beloved wife Georgia were married for 59 years. John was a wonderful father to Neil and Alison, a loving father-in-law to Neil’s wife Stacey, and a devoted grandfather to Anisa, Hailey, and Nathan. He is survived by his sister Jane Stubblefield and lifelong friends, particularly Maria Maksymiw..

John was a gentle man who had great curiosity about the world, with many passions and intellectual interests. He was fascinated by early human history, keenly following findings about Neanderthals, Denisovans, and others in the human lineage. Using a telescope, he saw Andromeda, Jupiter’s moons, and the rings of Saturn, among other bodies, and counted this as one of the great satisfactions of his life. He loved opera, classical music, jazz, Buddhist and Indigenous chanting, and several genres of contemporary music. He enjoyed travel, especially to Florence, Italy, and was always eager for another museum or historic site. He was an early and skillful adopter of computers and other technology, was a keen photographer, and could build or repair almost anything.

Above all, John loved his family and was very proud of each of us. He delighted in our accomplishments and shared our struggles. He was a creative problem-solver who had a great sense of humour with a quick wit. He was generous, thoughtful, and readily expressed his love. We have hundreds of stories to cherish, but we will miss him and love him forever.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter "Peel" Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga (Hwy 10 N. of Q.E.W), on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 from 2-3 PM, followed by a celebration of John’s life in the Chapel at 3 PM.

Donations in honour of John will be gratefully received by Noojimo’iwewin Gitigaan National Healing Forest Project trusteed by St. Matthew’s United Church. E-transfer to stmattsunited@gmail.com with “Garden Fund” in your message, along with your address. Cheques may be made out to St. Matt’s United Church with “Garden Fund” on the memo line and sent to 729 St. Clair W. TO ON M6C 1B2".