Born in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, he immigrated with his family to Winnipeg where he grew up.
From a young age, he was inquisitive and a voracious reader. After moving to Toronto and graduating from Osgoode Hall, he articled in Peterborough and decided to stay. He practiced first at Howell Fleming, eventually becoming a sole practitioner. John spent his retirement years in Cavan, cross-country skiing and mountain biking, as well as going on long walks with his canine companion Louie. He also enjoyed canoeing and camping with family and friends. Self described as a generalist in the pursuit of varied knowledge, his famous line was “better living through chemistry”.
His brilliant mind, and unique points of view will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.
