John Robert Hales

John Robert Marsh Hales, a man of quiet grace and immense heart, passed away on September 14, 2025, at the age of 88. His legacy is one of deep love for his family, a passion for the things he enjoyed, and a quiet kindness that touched everyone who knew him.

For 67 years, John was the most devoted and loving husband to Shirley. He was a pillar of strength for his children: Greg (Lynn), John (Hilary), Gerald, Michael, and Cathy (Jack/Hagop). John’s love extended to his cherished grandchildren Meghan (Mike), Jonathan, Victoria (Anthony), Taylor (Nicole), Conner, Erik and Spencer (Olivia), and his great-grandchildren Rowan, Jolie, Emerson, Dawson, and Brewer, all of whom brought him so much joy. He is also survived by his siblings, Rosemary (Bryan) and Jim (Angie), and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Agnes, and his brothers Larry and Gerry.

John’s life was rich with passions. He spent his career as an insurance broker, where he was known for his integrity and genuine care for his clients. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, coaching hockey and baseball teams with a mentorship that went beyond the field. John was never happier than when he was cheering for his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs and Blue Jays or watching his grandchildren play. A true music lover, he found immense pleasure in opera, with his cherished memory of seeing La Bohème at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. His love for music was also shaped by his children, and he grew to appreciate the sounds of Supertramp and Electric Light Orchestra (ELO)—bands that became household favourites during their teenage years, filling the home with rhythm, energy, and unforgettable memories.

Above all, John’s greatest passion was his family. He found profound joy and purpose in the lives of those closest to him, all of whose presence and connection brought him deep love, pride and happiness. No matter how many miles separated them, the bonds he shared with his family remained strong and deeply cherished. Whether through quiet conversations, shared laughter, or simply being together, John’s love for his family was unwavering and deeply felt. His gentle spirit, warm heart, and steadfast devotion to those he loved will be missed beyond measure.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses from the Palliative Care Community Team and St. Elizabeth Healthcare. A very special thank you to all the PSWs from Stay Home Forever and Circle of Care and our dear friend Lynette, whose compassion and tenderness during the last three months meant the world to John and his family.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Parish, 200 Morrish Rd, Toronto, ON M1C 1E8. The family welcomes all to attend a Celebration of Life reception, immediately following the mass in the Church reception hall, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John's Memory to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation, causes close to our hearts.