She passed away peacefully ~ with much strength and surrounded by love ~ on April 26, 2026, at Oak Ridges Hospice in Port Perry, Ontario, at the age of 87.
Beloved, admired, and cherished wife of the late Joseph William Kanuka, June Ann was a true matriarch of her family. Her unity with Joe (Geido) was a foundation that modelled connection, conviction, zest for life and unwavering love. Devoted mother to Lynn Kanuka (Markus), Michael Kanuka (Melinda), Laureen Brown (Kelvin), Kerri Carlson (Scott), and Chris Kanuka (Amanda). She was the ultimate Baba to Robbie, Jack, Alison, and Jessica; Katie, Bennett, and Madeline; Rudy, Jacob, and Sarah; Max, Anna, and John; and Charlie, Joe, and Caillie. She was an extremely proud great-grandmother to Cayden, Owen, Leila, and Neda.
June Ann Kanuka is survived by her sister Laverne and her brother Dallard, and was predeceased by her siblings Noreen, Ronald, and Donald.
Throughout her life, June Ann believed in the benefits of education and sports, and she and Joe instilled this importance in their five children. She took immense pride in her family and friends and found joy in life’s abounding simple pleasures — coffee and carrot muffins; a pair of eagles flying high together; driving her kids to practices; playing ball; a classic game of Bridge or Cribbage, ideally with a skunk; a boat ride, or a rivalled tennis match; bodysurfing in the ocean and paddleball on the beach in Florida; a drinkie-poo with a whirly and a swim; baking cinnamon buns or making perogies; licorice, nuts, chocolate, and Hawkins while travelling in the motorhome or more recently a mainstay on her coffee table; an incredible view or The View; forest walks, scooter rides, a good movie or Emily in Paris; reading ‘her book’ and prayers; watching a tennis final, curling, and the Riders, of course. June Ann was truly the heart and steadfast leader of her family. She lived and loved by example, and her fun-loving disposition, go-get-‘em drive, and strength of spirit will remain with us always.
Friends and family are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial for June Ann Kanuka at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1710 Scugog Street (Hwy 7A), Port Perry, on Wednesday, May 20th at 11:00 a.m., with Father Keith Wallace presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oak Ridges Hospice. Memories, photos, and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com
Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
1710 Scugog Street
Port Perry, Ontario, Canada
