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
Ina Walton
Alan and Carol Barr
We are saddened to hear of Johnny's passing. He and Kay were good friends to us was and a great source of support. He and Kay added much to the life and mission at St. Columba, and we are surely better for knowing them. So long Johnny until we meet again. Our prayer are with |John's family at this time.
Donna May
Our sincere condolences Stuart and Ann Marie. Through you we heard of your dad’s love of music and family. I’m sure you have lots of great memories that will help you through these difficult days. May he rest in peace. Sending hugs and lots of love your way.
Donna and Richard
Lois and Joe lecour
An outstanding RCAF/CAF airman/officer has sadly gone to greater heights. John was the epitome of one of the best persons anyone could know and associate with.
He was a mentor and advisor to me and to others who knew him .
He was also a great basketball referee .He will missed by many .God speed my friend- say hello to Kay or us - both of you are in a better place
Jo & John Broughton, Kelowna, BC
Our most sincere condolences to all of Johnny’s family. Johnny was the best supervisor I had in the Air Force no matter how many units we shared together from St Sylvester during the late 50’s to North Bay in the 70’s. He was also a dear friend exchanging emails with me until a couple of weeks prior to his passing. We will miss him. Be very thankful you shared such a wonderful father and grandfather. Our prayers and blessings are with all of you.
Jerri-Lynne Worth
We send our love to Uncle John's family. May your fond memories of him comfort you during this difficult time.
My sincere condolences to the Moors family. I became acquainted with Johnnie and Kay when they lived in Kenron Estates. Was able to keep in touch via email and Facebook after they moved to Belleville and later when Johnnie moved to Ottawa. A great pleasure to know them.