We bid farewell to John, whose kindness, wisdom, friendship and good humour were treasured by us all. John died on May 21, 2024, leaving behind a rich community of loving relationships. John walked through life with curiosity, humility and a gentle strength. He was a teacher, counsellor, researcher and career coach. John passionately enjoyed canoeing, singing, listening to jazz and classical music, cheering on the Blue Jays, hiking and simply being outdoors. For two decades he faced the challenges and losses of Parkinson’s Disease with profound grace and courage. His steadfast routine of going for a daily walk in his beloved town of Elora, no matter the weather, was an inspiration to us all. We are grateful that John has opened the book to the next chapter, and that his passing was serene and uplifting, surrounded by loved ones. John was predeceased by his mother Elizabeth Hamilton (née Parsons); father Robert McLean Prior Hamilton; and sister Susan Van Iterson (née Hamilton). He was dearly loved by his wife Barbara Hamilton (née Lucas); his son Brian Hamilton; his daughter Diane Hamilton; his stepson Geoffrey Brunt; and his stepdaughters Robyn Wynberg (née Brunt) and Sarah Brunt. As John neared the end of his life, he became more reliant on the gentle hands of many caregivers. The family is tremendously grateful for their open-hearted kindness and dedication. John’s ashes will be scattered in Georgian Bay near his favourite island. A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Church of St John the Evangelist, 36 Henderson Street in Elora, Ontario on Friday, June 7th at 1pm, with a reception following at the family home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario (psso.ca).
