John was born in Toronto, the youngest of three children. During his youth, he developed a passion for classical music and an eclectic taste in books including Art, Literature, Nature and the lives of his favorite composers.
John's career in the military afforded him the opportunity to travel the world. His favorite posting was in Germany where it was not unusual for him to hop on a military jet and head to England for lunch. He was well known for his keen wit and sense of humour which he passed on to Kathy and John. John and Ann enjoyed playing Tennis at The Barrhaven Tennis Club and at The Ottawa Tennis and Lawn Bowling Club, where they met kindred spirits. John's backhand drop-shot was the bane of his opponents.
John is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Ann, his Children Katherine Massey (Kevin) and John Coutts (Linda), Laura Loucks (Trevor Wickham) and his grandchildren Samantha Massey, Leah Massey, Brandon Massey, Christopher Coutts, Mark Courts, Erik Coutts, Lilli Wickham and Skye Wickham. Predeceased by his stepson, Thomas Loucks.
Special thanks to the entire staff of the Neurology Ward 2A at the Ottawa Civic Hospital where John received excellent care. In John's memory, donations may be made to The Ottawa Food Bank.
Funeral arrangements will be made for June at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremations Service, Ottawa.
I entered the military chaplaincy under John as team leader in Halifax in 1979. He was a gifted mentor, reliable, and a highly supportive team leader. I concur with the reference to John's sharp and engaging wit and love of music. It caused me to reflect on aspects of life with a different perspective.
To Ann and Joh's family and circles of people who knew him, I offer heartfelt consolation.
RIP and in God's keeping.