Peacefully at the Owen Sound Hospital on February 21, 2024, at the age of 100 years.

John was born February 15, 1924 in Windsor. Loving father to Mike (Cecilia) and John. Loving grandfather to Michael and Katlynne and great grandfather to Owen. Survived by his brother George and sisters Marilyn and Beverly. Predeceased by his wife Marygrace, daughters-in-law Marsha (nee Mohr) and Merri-Anne (nee Jordan), parents Elizabeth (nee Towers) and Frank Garvey, brothers Frank ‘Diz’, Donald, Raymond, Leonard and Albert and sisters Evelyn, Irene and Margaret.

John served in the Merchant Marines during WW2, was a stone mason by trade – although not an artsy guy he worked magic with stone. He loved sports – many would remember him umpiring baseball, refereeing hockey or broomball – he often said he was not in it for the money but the love of the game especially when kids were involved. Many nights were spent with his good friend Frank Christie and brother Diz Garvey refereeing at some cold arena somewhere in Grey or Bruce county. He was an avid golfer and golfed until September of last year.

Many thanks to the staff at Kelso Villa and Vicki Oldrieve for helping Dad with his day-to-day care over the many years. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and PSW’s at the Owen Sound Hospital who made his last days as comfortable as possible.

Family and friends are invited to share memories at the DOWNS AND SON FUNERAL HOME, Hepworth on Monday, February 26th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be held in May. Spring interment Zion Cemetery. Expressions of remembrance to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated.