John David Hawthorne

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of John David Hawthorne on December 12, 2024, at the age of 87 after a long, heartbreaking journey of physical and mental decline caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

Johnnie, as he was affectionately known, was predeceased by his wife Joyce (nee Spencer), son Bruce and daughter Shirley. He will be deeply missed by daughter Darlene (Kevin Grice) and son David. He was a loving Popo to: Nicole Hawkins, Jason Dawson, JD Wakelin, Meghan Worobec, Lucas Grice and Ariel Weir; Great Popo to: Kaila, Zachary, Sierra, Savannah, Addison and Harper; Great Great Popo to: Kylie and Kaiden. He is dearly missed by his beloved dog, Cookie.

Dad was one of twelve children born to the late John David and the late Elizabeth Hawthorne in Northern Ireland. He is survived by siblings Jim, Mina and Jean back home. He immigrated to Canada where he met his future wife Joyce, and started a family in Hamilton, Ontario. He worked hard all his life and retired from Cold Metal Products (CMP - formerly known as Stanley Steel). During his retirement he continued to keep busy doing his first passion, his Handy Man business. He cut lawns, cleaned windows, built decks and worked for a real estate company maintaining their homes. Hence his garage was filled with 16 ladders, 21 hammers, 8 grass trimmers, and the list goes on.

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease. It is a journey for both the one inflicted with the disease and for their loved ones. There reached a point where we needed help with the Dad’s journey and were fortunate enough to have him move into Macassa Lodge. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the care Dad received in the D-wing. We will forever be grateful. Thank you to Sharon Dorr of the Alzheimer’s Society for your support throughout this journey. Cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.