John Edward Hill

I don't think there is a Starbucks venti latte strong enough to help me get through today.

What makes this easier is that everyone here has been touched in some way by my dad, either knowing and loving him personally, or through one of the important people he loved.

I am John’s middle daughter, Amy. This in my older sister Amanda and my younger sister Christina.

John was born on April 1st, 1949 in Fort Frances, Ontario to loving parents Doris and Andy Hill. As a boy, everyone called him Jack—and many still know him as Jack or Uncle Jack. He has two older brothers, Joe and Paddy.

As a mom of three boys, I can imagine the shenanigans these brothers got into, the fridge she kept full, and the laundry…oh, the laundry.

My dad was a good man—good in the truest sense of the word: Honest, hardworking, patient and kind. He was the most generous person you could ever meet.

He never hesitated to help with the grandkids. There were days when I’d have him “booked” in the morning to look after one or more of my kids. Then he’d head over to pick up my sister’s children at school before putting my other sister’s children to bed so she and her husband could enjoy a rare night out. My dad did this for all of us because he loved spending time with his grandchildren and was devoted to his family.

Whenever an idea came up to plan a family event he would jump on board and help with the planning and organizing. He was always up for a Florida vacation and always made it happen. There were countless trips to Leamington, get-a-ways to Huntsville, family dinners with the Wakefords and family reunions with the Hills out West. He always wanted to make sure everyone was included and attended. It was the same with friends. He was a loyal friend, and valued dinners, trips and golf days.

This devotion to family and friends is something my dad strongly instilled in his children. My sisters and I grew up in a home built on strong Christian values and beliefs. Through 45 years of marriage, he regularly attended mass and supported my mother in raising us in the Catholic faith.

In recent days, others have described Dad as a “gentle giant” and a “big teddy bear”. It’s true; he was always a quiet, calming presence. And humble too, despite knowing so much about so many things. He was always there to quietly offer his wisdom and experience to my sisters and our husbands, whether on finances, cars, major purchases, or life in general.

He was the personification of patience. He had to be, living with four females! He looked for the good in everyone and he always found it. He encouraged people to pursue their interests and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

When there was a project that needed his expertise, Dad—an engineer by profession and at heart—was always willing to offer a smart solution and lend a hand. He’d get down on the ground to change a toilet flange, look under a car, or fix a lawn mower, never giving a second thought to the new clothes or shoes he was wearing. Needless to say, his clothes never stayed “new” for long!

He was passionate about golf and about his RedBlacks.

He loved golfing with his brother Paddy, and the two of them thought nothing about playing 72, 108 or more holes over just a few days on golf trips together.

And thanks to Dad’s lifelong love of Canadian football, his daughters—and now their husbands—are die-hard CFL fans. In years to come, all our families will continue the traditions he started: watching the RedBlacks play from our seats at the 23 yard line, cooking up a storm for Grey Cup parties, and buying discounted merchandise at year-end locker room sales.

Speaking of shopping, he appreciated a good deal—an appreciation he passed on to me. If something was on sale, Dad usually bought two. Whenever we were shopping together, the term “halfsies” usually came up. Meaning, splitting the cost of my purchase 50-50. But of course, I don’t think I ever paid my 50 percent.

It is clear that love was the foundation of our parent’s marriage. They extended this love to family, friends and beyond. Dad and Mom were so cute together, whether cooking Sunday dinner, vacationing or watching Hallmark movies. They were best friends, able to communicate openly and honestly with each other. My sisters and I look to my parents’ relationship as a foundation for our marriages.

Dad always valued his role as a family leader and there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do for his family. His devastating diagnosis was even more difficult because he knew that there was nothing he could do to help ease the pain of those he loved most.

To the eight grandkids—Kayleigh, Victoria, Jack, David, Owen, Jonah, Stephanie and Nate—your grandpa loved you all so much. Your parents will continue to share stories about him. It has been your good fortune to spend time with him and it is now our responsibility to help his legacy live on in you.

We are so grateful for all the amazing years we had together. He built a beautiful life for his family.

We will miss him always.

Comforting words and tributes following John’s passing November 2019

Hi Donna, this is a hard E-mail to write and I have been putting it off. Will miss Jack, he was one of the few cousins I kept in contact with. We enjoyed his visits to us in Peterborough when he was doing his summer work term at University. Time we went and saw the Toronto Maple Leafs game, time spent in Fort Frances with the Hills family, time when you and Jack visited us. So many great memories. Just like you & Jack always thinking of others we did make a donation to the Snowsuit Fund/Le Fonds Habineige. A bit belated we had intended to donate at the funeral but that was not to be. We will always think of you and the girls. You will always be part of our life. Love, Mel & Joan

‘John’s smile, laughter & gentle nature, will always be remembered & cherished. You are all in our hearts & prayers.’ Bob & Erma Armit,

‘ I am heartbroken for you and your family to hear such news . While I never met John it was always evident to me by the way you always smiled when you mentioned his name when chatting about your adventures he was a very special person. Life presents us with such adversity and then courage to take the next step each day. You and your family are in my prayers and may you be lifted up when you need to be and given time to yourself to be sad. Such loss that only you will understand what it means to you. Take good care and I know you are in good hands, however I will check in with you just the same.’

Kindly, Jill Fairbairn

‘In shock and sorrow when I read your sad news a few minutes ago. Our deepest condolences. John was such a supportive husband, father and grandfather. He was always so generous sharing his time and talents especially with his family.

Keeping you and the girls and their families in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. So unbelievably sad.’ Marcelle, Jim, Mark and Darren Kinash

‘Oh Donna I’m so sorry to hear about John. What painful news. I’ll be there tomorrow. You’re in my prayers.’ Lillian Delmas

‘Peter and I are very shocked and sorry to hear about John. He looked so happy and healthy the last time we saw him. Monica follows facebook and just sent me a copy of the obituary. She sends her condolences as do Peter and I.’ We hope he didn’t suffer too much in his final days. May the comfort of your children and grandchildren give you strength at this difficult time. Let us know if there is anything we can do for you, Donna. You are in our thoughts and prayers.’ Sincerely your friends Mary and Peter

.....’.Let me close with an anonymous quote that was shared with me on the death of someone I loved deeply. The pain you feel now, Is because of the happiness you had then. That's life's deal. Sending you cyber hugs and my heartfelt sympathies.’ Joanne Robichon Curran

‘of course I’ll do a reading. I’d be honoured.

Our deepest sympathies.’

Jason.

‘I offered my Mass this morning for John and know that you and your family are in my prayers. No words can express the sorrow I know you and your family are feeling’ All my love Joan

‘I was shocked and very saddened to hear about John’s passing. You and all the family have been, and continue to be, in my thoughts and prayers.’

Kathy Quinn Sinclair

‘Oh Donna, I’m so sorry to hear. I’m at a loss for words, but I am sending hugs to you and your family. My thoughts are with you.’ Sandy

‘OMG Donna, I am so sorry to hear that! What a shock. I really do not have words to express how sorry and sad I am for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Big hugs of support for you.’ What a great loss for you and your family Donna. You have lost your companion, your love, your best friend. The girls have lost their loving father. I pray for you all and offer my deepest and most sincere sympathy. Know that John lives in your daughters and wonderful grandchildren.’ Madeleine

‘Madeleine couldn’t have expressed my thoughts any better. I’m so very very sorry. Please know you are surrounded by friends who care deeply for you, Donna.’ Gayle Greene

‘I am so sorry to learn about the loss of your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sending you a big hug,’ Joanne

‘My sincere sympathy. I believe there is is no greater loss than that of your life partner.

Keep your daughters and grand babies close.

I will call you when I get back,

There are no words,’ Colleen

‘I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. You must be devastated...thank God you have such a close loving family. Think of all the lovely trips you have had recently. If you ever need anything please don’t hesitate to call. Will keep you & family in our prayers.’ Hugs Mary

‘I am so so sorry and extremely sad to hear this news. I too valued our friendship... he was like a father figure to me. I always and will forever cherish what an amazing friend and boss I had.

My deepest sympathies to you and your lovely family.’

Gisèle 😥

‘Nicole phoned me this afternoon to share your devastating news about John. I can't even begin to tell you how sorry I am. I wish I was closer to lend a hand in some way. I'm emailing rather than calling as I'm sure you are overwhelmed and exhausted. I'm glad you have the girls close by for emotional and physical support. I know it's tough for them too. Know that I'm praying for you, now and in the days ahead.’ There are no adequate words to tell you how heart-broken I am for the pain you must be going through-I can’t even imagine! I’m praying that God will give you courage and strength to carry you through the next days and weeks. I’m so grateful that you have the girls all close to help shoulder the grief. All my love and prayers’ Sus

‘I just wanted you to know that we are standing with you guys during this difficult time. We will pray for healing and strength to get through this. Please if there is anything you need or anything we can do to help in any way we are here. We love you guys. ’Love Sheryl, Scott and Georgia.

‘Susie has told me a number of times about your lovely family and she very much treasures your childhood friendship…’ Joan Tye

‘I wanted to say to you on Monday (but I couldn’t find my words) that your three daughters spoke so well and eloquently of their Dad. John would have been so extremely proud of each one of them! You are in our thoughts’ Joyce and Dave

‘Just a note to let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.’ God bless’ Tim, Nancy, Ella and Claire

‘So sorry for your loss. God Bless’ Glenna and Bill Blair

‘Praying for you and wishing you peace’ love Stan and Bernice

‘To the Hill family – We are truly sorry for the loss of John. We would like to offer you and your family our deepest and most sincere condolences. May our friendship and prayers ease you through this difficult time’ ‘A special spirit is forever close to the heart’ Murielle, Ernst, Lorraine, and Hans Frehner

‘Holding you close in my thoughts and prayers and hoping you’re surrounded with love during these difficult times’ Marthe

Aunt Donna, Amanda, Amy and Christina (and all the husbands and kids) My prayers are of comfort and peace in your time of loss. I will hold Uncle John in my heart with the memories that I will always have. His humour, his heart and his strength.’ Love you all, Theresa and Tyler

‘So sorry for your loss! You will have some tough days ahead-Know that we are all sending you love.‘ Laura Murray (class of ’74)

Amanda and family – ‘We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in thoughts and prayers’ Jen and Jason

To Donna, Amy, Amanda, Christina, Peter, John, James and all your children and family ‘If there is anything we can do at any time, please call us’ Margaret and Elgin Marsden

‘So sorry for the loss of your husband and father. He always seemed to me as a gentle and caring man every time I had met him. Keeping you in my prayers.’ Joanne Gauthier

‘We are thinking of you at this difficult time. Please accept our sincere condolences.’ Richard and Eileen Hamelin

‘We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you’. Doreen, Steve, Samatha, Libby and Eddie

‘Please know that I am thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time. Sending love and hugs’ Kathy Plummer xx

‘I am sorry to hear about the death of your husband. My thoughts are with you and your family.’ Annette Beriault

‘We are sad to hear of the sudden loss of uncle John. We remember him fondly.’ Love, Dan, Binh and Corbin Wakeford

‘We were deeply saddened by the news of John’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.’ Linda and Bruno Prasil

‘Just wanted you to know you’re being held close in thought and heart. With sincere sympathy’ Maggie and Eric

‘I continue to think of you and hope that your family and friends will hold you with their support and love’ Pat Lindsey

‘I was very sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. My deepest sympathy is with you and your family at this very sad and difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you’ Helene xxx

‘Just to let you know I was one of the ‘golf group’ who played with John. I joined the group in 2016 so we played a few times. John was a quiet thoughtful guy and will be missed by our group. I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through but I wish you strength and many fond memories’. Sincerely Clive Petersen

‘We were truly sorry to hear of the loss of John. It has been a difficult time for you. Hold on to those special memories.’ Elaine and David

‘I was so saddened to hear of your loss.’ Sincerely, Nancy

‘I worked and enjoyed many fun times with John. He was a great influence on me. Just the way he carried himself and calm he was. We will miss him dearly too’ Ron and Janice Simard

‘So sorry to hear of John’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers’ Emily Kluke

‘We will remember John as a gentle and kind person’ Jim and Terry Watson (RCABC members)

‘I was so saddened to hear your story of the journey you were on that ultimately ended in the loss of your dear husband John. As you so bravely share, I was moved by the deep love and grace you demonstrated in those last days…caring about every detail. I have no doubt your faith, your family, and your friends will lift you up in this next difficult chapter of your life. Holding you in my thoughts and prayers’ love Vicki

‘Fr. Lukose, Deacon John and many parishioners at Holy Cross Parish are praying for you as you mourn the loss of your dear husband John. May God bless you and comfort you as you journey through this difficult time.’

‘Thinking of you in this time of sorrow’ your classmate Renee

Sympathy from:

Stanley, Natalie, Gabbie and Wyatt

Kathleen and Bob Rutledge;

Mirella and Vincenzo Santostefano

Jan, Glenn and family

‘So sorry this had to happen…too soon and too quickly. My deepest condolences! I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.’ Sincerely Ann Rickey

‘Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your husband John. We just heard about his passing and please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time’ Maureen and Roy Meikle

‘So sorry for the loss of your husband’ Ursula

‘Our deepest condolences, Love The Maheral Family: Allan, Bruce and Rachel, Ken and Suzanne, Wayne and Patricia, Connie and Claude xoxo’ -floral tribute

‘We trust you will find comfort in the support of your family and we are both here if you need us in the days ahead. Loving thoughts are with you at this time’ Bryan and Ruth

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with you on the loss of Uncle Jack’ love Joe, Louise and girls

‘With fondest memories and hope for strength in the days ahead’ love Brent and Stacy

‘With deepest sympathy’ love Sue

‘With condolences and sympathy from the staff and board of the Roofing Contractors’ Association of British Columbia’ – floral tribute

‘I am so sorry to learn of John’s passing. I wish I could join you for the services, but unfortunately I am in BC till Tuesday. Sending you warmth, strength and love in the days ahead’ Ryan Quinn

‘Thinking and praying for you guys. We have such great memories of your dad and mom and your family’ Jim, Julie, Ethan, Aaron, Oilivia

‘I’m so sorry that you lost John, far too soon. I have read the tributes posted online, and John’s warmth, gentleness and kindness are mentioned repeatedly, along with his devotion to family. I can’t think of a better way to be remembered than by those values. I John’s memory, I have made a donation to the Christmas Exchange. I have fond Christmas memories of John from my childhood, such as being included in outings to Santa Claus breakfasts and parades with your family, and of course his delicious baking! He always had a warm welcome for me when I would visit your house on Urbandale on Christmas Day, as I did many times over the years. The days ahead will be challenging, no doubt, and I wish you peace and strength. I know that you and your amazing family will treasure the wealth of wonderful memories of John. He was a remarkable man. ‘Please know how much you and your families are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult and very sad time. Sending you love and strength.’ Brenda, Joel, Lilah, Miles and Julia

‘Our deepest condolences’ Jack and Denyse

‘Just a note to send you my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beloved John. He sounds like he was a truly exceptional man, and we will miss him in the neighbourhood.’ Sincerely, Barb Hogberg

‘We are pleased to donate to the Snowsuit Fund in memory of John who was such a kind and caring man’ Jan and Peter

‘Please accept our heartfelt condolences’ Ramona and Ed

‘What a shock and I heard from Colleen about John’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May your memories sustain you and your family.’ Judy Faloon

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. With our deepest sympathy’ Alice and Chris Joseph

‘John’s passing is a great loss for everyone who knew him. We are deeply saddened but are thankful for the memories’. Love Nicole and Paul

‘I was saddened to hear that your husband passed away. May all your wonderful memories comfort you in this difficult time’ my sincere sympathy Anne Fortier

‘We are deeply sorry for your family’s loss. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time’ love Renee, Justine and Sarah

‘Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. Blessings’ Mary and Ken

‘My deepest sympathy to you and your family’ with all my love Joanne Fantinic

‘My sincere condolences on the loss of John. I remember him as a warm, kind person, and I understand how your loss is a painful journey. In the following weeks and months it will be a difficult transition, but there is remarkable strength in the knowledge that loved ones never leave us entirely’ with sincere sympathy Jim Montgomery

‘So very sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy to you, your kids and all those grandkids. I am glad they got to know their grandfather’ sincerely Helene – dietitian

‘Condolences from the Lepp family’ Randy, Frieda, Eric, Rebecca, Heidi and Leif – floral tribute

‘sympathy of Clarence Maheral’

‘John was the love of your life and will continue to be cradled in your heart… and his soul will hold you dear to him forever….John was truly a wonderful friend…He was a quiet, kind, gentle soul. A quiet presence. His sense of humour was so subtle and he loved a good tease…you had to check out the glint in his eyes to see if he was spoofing’ heartfelt hugs Bev and Ron

‘Our thoughts are with you in this very trying time. Please stay strong and accept our deepest sympathies. John was an exceptional person and will be fondly remembered by all at CRCA. May he rest in peace’ Canadian Roofing Contractors Association

‘I am so very sorry to hear about John. What a shock…I am so glad we had that reunion two years ago. What a wonderful time we all had getting caught up with each other. I have good memories of John being at our very small apartment in Ottawa where Ron would invite some of the guys over to pool their money together to buy a case of beer…At our reunion in 2017 we got to see some of those young now older guys again and share stories of what happened during the last 45 years…I will keep you in my thoughts daily. Sending a Big Hug. Marianne

'I had the privilege of working with John. He was a soft spoken and effective leader. Thank you for sharing him with our industry for 25 years' - Terry and Patricia Pepin

'Perhaps they are not the stars but rather the openings in HEAVEN where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy' (Inspired by an Eskimo legend)

'We are shocked and saddened to hear of John's death. We hope this card gives you some comfort' - Elizabeth and Andrew Hill (County Down, Northern Ireland)

'Donna, we think of you often and were greatly saddened to hear of John passing. He was kind, gentle & wise. We are proud to call him our friend.' - John and Kathy Harris

* * * * * * * * * *

At home surrounded by family John passed away peacefully October 30, 2019 after a very recent and aggressive cancer diagnosis. Loved and loving husband of Donna (nee Wakeford), devoted father of Amanda (Peter) Pieda, Amy (John) Macaulay and Christina (James Lepp). Cherished grandfather of Kayleigh, David and Stephanie Pieda; Jack, Owen and Nate Macaulay; and Victoria and Jonah Lepp. Dear brother of Joseph (Louise) Hill, Kimberley, B.C., Patrick (late Ruth) Hill, Leamington, Ontario. Dear brother-in-law to Bryan and Ruth Wakeford, Dianne and John Rivers and Stacy and Brent Wakeford, all of Ottawa. Treasured son-in-law of the late Vivian (Maheral) and Clifford Wakeford. Beloved uncle to several nieces and nephews whom he adored. Family meant the world to John. John was born in Fort Frances, Ontario the loving son of the late Doris (Calder) and Andrew Hill. He moved to Huntsville, Ontario in 1964 where he attended and graduated from Huntsville High School. He attended Laurentian University in Sudbury and subsequently graduated from the University of Ottawa in Civil Engineering, where he met the love of his life, Donna, at an Engineering/Nursing skating party. As a Civil Engineer, John was involved in bridge construction and road building. He found his calling as the Executive Director of the Canadian Roofing Contractors’ Association, a position he held for 25 years. John was talented in so many ways. He was creative and handy, and could solve any issue with a quick redesign. John was a passionate golfer, often playing 27-36 holes in a day with his brother Paddy. He was a loyal CFL fan holding season tickets with Rough Riders, Renegades and RedBlacks franchises. He instilled the love of the game in his daughters. He loved cars, from sports cars to luxury vehicles and everything in between. Eight years ago, John took on a new role, one that would be a part of his legacy. He became a grandfather and his grandchildren were his world. His eight grandchildren adored him and the feeling was mutual. Friends and family may gather at McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home, 1411 Hunt Club Road, on Sunday November 3 from 5-8 pm. Funeral will be held on Monday November 4, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, 685 Walkley Road, Ottawa, Ontario. Reception to follow in parish hall. In memory of John, donations may be made to The Snowsuit Fund and The Christmas Exchange.