John Edward McNutt

John was the beloved husband of Sheryl Hopkins for 47 years. He was a devoted father to Troy McNutt (Kris), and John’s children through marriage, Tim Hopkins (Cristianne) and Sean Hopkins (Carmen). His daughter Sandra Starr (Robert) came into his life 6 years ago and enjoyed his devotion during the last few years as well.

To say he was a proud Grandfather is an understatement. His grandchildren include Troy’s children Finn, Sam, Hailie, and Ilyanna; Tim’s children Alicia, Sophia, and Davi; Sean’s children Mia and Chloe; and Sandra’s children Christina, Vanessa, Tristan, Spencer, and Frank. He was also very proud to have two Great-grandchildren: Spencer on the west coast, and Kaizen in Ontario. His nephew Michael McNutt (Tracy) was also like a son to him and was a very special part of their lives and the lives of their children Brianna (Aaron) and Shealyn too.

He will also be lovingly remembered by his other honourary children connected and mentored through international student programs as well as their families he got to watch grow up as they all stayed in touch and grew closer over the years. Andy; Yajaira; Prachi; and so many others.

Of special note, John’s Aunt Pauline survives him; as well as his siblings Ted, Lauretta, Kathy, and Kerry. His brother Bill passed on, and that event led John to become like a father figure to Michael McNutt with a very special bond with him and his family. John’s niece Bonnie Robbins also shared a close relationship with her uncle. There are so many cousins and other relatives that were very special to John as well as their extended families.

Blair and Karen Nixon have been a special part of the lives of John and Sheryl and are like family too. We are so grateful for the friendship and acts of kindness to care for John and Sheryl, especially over the past few years when they have needed increasing support. There are so many other people in this lifetime of John that were special and wish we could mention everyone in this notice. We look forward to seeing you at the service or hearing from you on the website.

Born on July 6, 1949 in Oshawa but grew up in Peterborough shortly after birth. John spent his life dedicated to his family, his work, friends, and volunteer pursuits. At the time of his passing, he was still actively working as the CEO/President of Junior Achievement (JA Northern and Eastern Ontario) as well as Executive Director of CPD (The Council for Persons with Disabilities). These were both roles he valued deeply. His strong work ethic, integrity, and dedication earned him the respect of colleagues, friends, and an entire community that he was connected to in so many ways.

John was deeply involved in the community. He generously gave his time to many organizations, charities, and clubs. Some of the more notable ones are Rotary, Heads up for Inclusion, and various International Student Programs. Whether through leadership, volunteering, or acts of kindness and generosity, he worked tirelessly to make his community a better place.

Known for his forthright approach to “making things happen” for his joy of connecting with people, his love of spending time with family, debating politics, watching sports events, travelling, having a cheers at the pub, and telling a good story. He was a “mover and a shaker” in business and personal where he was readily organizing and planning for everyone that would allow it! He was kind and generous. He enjoyed watching sporting events such as baseball, football, curling, golf, and whatever else he and his wife Sheryl could experience live or on television. He will be remembered for his inclusiveness, his never give up mentality, and his dedication and loyalty to family, friends, and colleagues.

Visitation will be held at Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre, 840 Armour Road, Peterborough, ON on April 26, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, a Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JA Northern and Eastern Ontario or Council for Persons with Disabilities.

Service will be joinable through livestream: https://ipickart.com/stream/JohnEdwardMcNutt/