John C. Burns

April 5, 1915 – September 7, 2017

John Burns of Pointe Claire, Quebec passed away peacefully on September 7 at the age of 102 at the Chartwell Le Wellesley Retirement Home. John is survived by daughters Thea and Susan and son James (Kathy) as well as grandchildren Andrew (Emily), Philip (Leslie), Matthew, Cailinn (Andrew), Sarah (Greg) and Robyn and great-grandchildren Avery and Torin. John was predeceased by his first wife Letty and second wife Leone as well as his son Robert (Debra).

Born in Dunfermline, Scotland, John was a veteran of World War 2 and emigrated to Canada in 1947 as an Actuary with the Standard Life Assurance Co. in Montreal where he spent his entire working life rising to the position of President of Canadian Operations. Following his retirement he was a volunteer with the Canadian Executive Services Organization and completed assignments in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic.

John was a long time member of the Royal Montreal Golf Club, a regular golfer until the age of 98 and past winner of the Quebec Seniors Golf Championship as well as many other tournaments and competitions. He was also a member of the Mount Royal Club and the Royal St Lawrence Yacht Club.

The wonderful support, care and sense of community provided by the staff and residents of Le Wellesley during his time there is greatly appreciated by the family. In his final years the professionalism, gentle care and unfailing support of the caregivers from Golden Home Care, particularly Cindy Sarazen, made it possible for him to live out his final days exactly as he wished, and for this we are eternally grateful.

John was an active member of the congregation of Cedar Park United Church for many years and a memorial service will be held for him there on November 4 at 2:00 PM followed by a reception. Friends and acquaintances are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to the charity of your choice in his name.