John Kenneth MacKnight

It is with sadness that the family of John Kenneth MacKnight announces his passing on June 27, 2025, in Victoria, BC, at the age of 74 years. John was predeceased by his parents, Vera and Kenneth MacKnight. He is survived by his sister Heather MacKnight (Ian) of Surrey, B.C., and brother Douglas MacKnight (Leigh Anne) of Regina, Saskatchewan, as wells as nieces Stephanie, Jenny Dawn, Victoria and Jenny Leigh, and nephew Scott. 

John was born in Aliston, Ontario in 1951 to a military family and moved frequently during his formative years. He lived in ten different communities spanning six provinces and one territory before graduating high school in Shilo, Manitoba. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of New Brunswick in 1975, John worked at the Audio Services department of UNB Fredericton before becoming a writer/broadcaster with the CBC in Fredericton. In 1990, John moved to Sidney, BC to be closer to his family. Over the next three decades his work included investment advising, computer programming (having earned a  Computer Programmer Analyst diploma from CDI College in 1998) and owning and operating an art gallery.  

Outside of his work life, John had a passion for playing the guitar. He had very eclectic interests in guitar music with a particular passion for folk music and sea shanties.  He especially enjoyed playing in a folk collective.  John also loved the outdoors and could always be found hiking or cycling throughout the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria area.  John enjoyed photographing nature so his camera was never too far from him on these travels.

John was especially happy with the time he spent with his nieces and nephew when they came to visit in Sidney.  He loved to explore with them his favourite parks and beaches in the region. 

John will be especially remembered by the family for his devoted care of his father during his Dad’s final years. 

John’s life will be celebrated privately by the family.  

Take care, John, and rest in peace.