John Melvin Palmer passed away peacefully at the age of 73 after a long battle with heart disease on February 17, 2019. Predeceased by his parents John and Marion, John will be profoundly missed by his loving wife Vilda and sons JD and Charlie (Laura Herbert) and treasured granddaughter Audrey Quinn, sister Janet (Bud); sisters-in-law Ila Black, Delores Callin and Deborah Warkus (predeceased); nieces and nephews, Ennio, Karen, Paul, Andrew and Jennifer. A fiercely independent spirit, John is remembered for his unique sense of humour and gregarious nature. Early in life he was a gifted student of life drawing at OCAD and became a graphic artist. His passion for working with his hands exhibited itself in his life’s work as a carpenter, builder and cabinetmaker. John maintained a lifelong interest in cars and motorsports and never found a machine he didn’t want to tinker with. As an avid amateur photographer he carried on a tradition that was the Palmer family business dating back to the 19th Century. He dedicated many years to coaching minor hockey where he built lifelong friendships. John had a passion for the outdoors especially hunting and fishing. His pride was his property in New Tecumseth, part of the Oak Ridges Moraine, where he immersed himself in nature and wildlife. John leaves behind many close friends in his hometown of Toronto, as well as in Tottenham, Schomberg and the surrounding areas.
A celebration of life event will be held at the Trisan Centre (25 Dillane Dr, Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0) on Saturday March 23rd, 2019 beginning at 12 PM with spoken remembrances at 1 PM, followed by a reception. Final arrangements have been made through Rod Abrams Funeral Home in Tottenham. Condolences may be left at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com. A private family committal service will take place in Dundalk in the Spring. Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Southlake Regional Healthcare Centre (Cardiac Unit).
Fulvio Sansone says
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the family.
Ila Black says
We are greatly saddened by John’s passing and with heavy hearts we send our deepest sympathies and condolences to my Sister Vilda and her Sons JD Charlie and Families. John was the sweetest and kindness man and he will be missed by his family here in Australia. Fond memories of John will always be in our hearts. God Bless❤️
Pat Armour says
I’m sorry Vilda. I just learned about John’s death. My deepest sympathies,
Pat
Ron Stagg says
John did quite a bit of work on my house and my neighbour’s house in Toronto, and we became friends. Though I have not seen him for a dozen years or more, I have fond memories of spending time chatting with him while helping him work, and in the hours after work ended. He had a unique personality, always positive, with a great sense of fun, and was a skilled craftsman. He will be missed.
Marg and Bill Downes says
Although we know your hearts will feel a great emptiness, John is finally at peace. No one could ask a family to do more, we know, and John did not make a good invalid. He so liked to be active and creative. Treasure all your best memories of the sports he loved and happy times at Lake Couchiching. Thinking of you. Love and hugs to all.
Ned & Jo says
We were both saddened by the passing of John. We have many fond memories of him and he will truly be missed. May God comfort you and your family at this time of sorrow.
XO
Jana Sutherland says
Vilda…Julie and I feel so very sad to hear about John. We loved you and John so much and remember all the happy times at Eagle Lake. You were special people in our growing up years. Sending you all our love and deep condolences. xo
Philip & Dorothy Coombs says
Our sincere condolences to you, Vilda and your family. John definitely was “one of a kind”! Phil enjoyed hunting with him albeit it was only for a few years as they met late in their lives.