In 1991, John moved to Canada, where he would eventually settle in the town of Whitby, Ontario. Over the next 30 plus years, John would study and work a variety of jobs and careers, always aiming to provide for and support his children, who moved to join him in Canada in 1993. His work included roofing, driving, trade-shows, graphic design, printing and the construction supply industry.

Throughout his life, John enjoyed spending time with friends, listening to music, reading philosophy, riding motorcycles, windsurfing, watching auto racing, among other things. He would speak often of how he missed the African sunsets of his youth.

Most of all, John treasured his children, their spouses Kelly and Kevin, and in the past 2 decades his grand children: Sofia (20), William (17), Isaiah (16), Grace (15), Julia (15), and Benjamin (8). He was happiest of all surrounded by family, sitting by the pool on a sunny day. John loved his nephews Luis and Ivo and his niece, Lara, and their extended families.

After pondering his beliefs most of his life, John proudly became a believer in Jesus Christ and was baptized in the summer of 2023, alongside his grandson, Isaiah. John developed an enviable dependence on God and forged strong connections and beautiful friendships with his church community.

Services will be held at Renaissance Baptist Church of Brooklin on August 30th at 11:00am with a luncheon following. Visitation will be held from 10:00am-11:00am.

Arrangements with BARNES MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME .

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham, in Port Perry, who were so instrumental in providing great care and comfort in John's last days, as they do for so many others and their families.