In Celebration of

John Roy Riddolls

April 13, 1940 -  March 28, 2019

Peacefully at St. Joseph's Health Centre on March 28, John Roy Riddolls, beloved husband of Alvina Riddolls (nee Jushkevich) in his 79th year. Cherished father of John David Riddolls, Caitlin Naomi Riddolls and her husband Fred Elkins, and adoring grandfather to Bronwen and Padraig. Predeceased by his parents Roy and Agnes Riddolls and his sister Elizabeth Walker (survived by her husband Robert Walker). A private family memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the palliative care unit at St. Joseph's Health Centre or the Alzheimer's Society would be appreciated.

John grew up on his family farm in Listowel, Ontario, and studied math at the University of Western Ontario. After university, John joined IBM Canada, where for the next three decades he worked extensively with the Canadian banking sector, including on the development of the Interac system. After retiring from IBM, John consulted to the fintech sector for several years before finally taking up the job of Grandpa on a full time basis, to great acclaim. He proudly LinkedIn with his self-proclaimed title of "Recreational Coordinator", and considered secret pre-dinner ice cream field trips a key objective of his role.

John played an active role in the Learning Disabilities community in Mississauga, and was recognized on several occasions for his dedication and charitable work.

Never one to sit still, John enjoyed watching a few holes of golf, a period of hockey or a quarter of football before spending time tending to his pool, garden and barbeque, often spending an entire weekend perfecting his hedge and his beautiful roses, which were admired by all who passed by. He looked forward to his weekly bowling game with his son, a tradition they maintained for almost forty years. John enjoyed travelling the world with Alvina and he loved that they could enjoy many of these adventures with their grandchildren.

A caring son, devoted husband, loving father, the most wonderful grandpa, and a great friend. He will be remembered for his unfailing kindness and gentle manner, and will be missed by many.

Guestbook 

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Jon McDonald (Friend)

Entered April 1, 2019 from Oakville

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Riddolls. From my time coming to the house and times at Neil C. Matheson. Know Caitlin that you and all of your family are in my thoughts at this very difficult time.
Mr. R.J. McDonald
Grade 5 teacher at Neil C. Matheson

Ron Corless (Friend of the family)

Entered April 1, 2019 from Mississauga

Mr.John Riddolls you have always been nice to me when I knew you. Alvira and Caitlin,Bronwyn and Patrick and Fred my owcondolences. John David a.k.a Luis I’ll offer you my condolences when I’ll see you at Bowling next week. I’ll miss swimming in your pool,playing video games on your computer and going bowling with you and the family for John David’s Birthday in the late 90’s and going skating lessons with you and John D in the 1980’s. Ron Corless R.I.P John Riddolls

Lorna Bender (Lucky Cousin in Law)

Entered April 6, 2019 from Sunny California

I have wonderful memories of John from my youth. He and Alvina came when we were very little to California to see my parents and vacation along the coast. I came to Toronto a few times on business, and we had great times at dinners and their home just being together and talking about business, life and our families. Besides always being upbeat and outgoing, he was kind. He managed difficult situations by being loving, respectful and always thoughtful. I learned a few things from him :)
May he rest in peace and be with his other family, till we all join him. I know Alvina, John David, Fred, Caitlin and the grandchildren will miss him. He'll be there in spirit for the rest of their lives - which is a wonderful thing. Lucky for that - he was truly loved and loved back.

Bill and Teresa Ross (Family friend)

Entered April 7, 2019 from Caledon

Dear Caitlin and family,

So very sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Although losing a parent/ grandparent is part of the family life story, it is still profoundly sad. Prayers and wishes are shared for you and all the family.

Sincerely, Bill and Teresa

Wanda & Adolf Andres (cousin)

Entered April 7, 2019 from Selkirk, Manitoba

John was a special man and will be missed by us. His hospitality and smile were warm and meeting him was always a pleasure. Even when things were becoming difficult for him he made us feel welcome and was hospitable. My mother was so happy to say that Alvina was marrying a man who would be a good husband, and so it was.

Dear Cousin Alvina and family--John David, Caitlin, Fred, Bronwen & Padraig. We know you love him and your sorrow is deep. Please know our thoughts and hearts are with you. Your celebration of John’s life will surely be a celebration.

We will remember John fondly
Wanda & Adolf & family

Photos 

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