It is with great sadness that the family of John Howard Gibson announces his peaceful passing on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, at the age of 90.
Born in Toronto on August 9, 1936. John lived a full and meaningful life devoted to his family, his faith, his career, and the communities he was fortunate to call home. John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Janet, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, and a deep commitment to one another.
John was a loving and devoted father to Andrea (Bill) Parish, Stephen (Allison) Gibson, and Martha Jane (Dean) Budgell, and a treasured Papa to Hudson, Samuel, Justin (Emma), Ava, Logan, and Jacob. His family was a great source of pride and joy throughout his life.
John was predeceased by his parents, John and Violet Gibson, and his older sister, Joy (Bert) Woods. He is survived by his sister, Marjorie (Bill) Cooper. John graduated from the University of Toronto as an Electrical Engineer in 1961, and began his professional career with Ontario Hydro. He later found his true calling in education, embarking on a long and rewarding career with the Scarborough Board of Education. John served as Head of Science at Wexford Collegiate Institute, where he shared his love of learning with generations of students until his retirement in 1994.
Outside of his professional life, John pursued his many interests with enthusiasm. He enjoyed a variety of sports, took great pleasure in gardening, and pursued a love of music throughout his life.
Above all, John was a man of deep and abiding faith. Throughout his life, he was a dedicated member of several church communities, including Bendale Bible Chapel, New Song Church in Port Perry, and St. George’s Anglican Church in Burlington. His Christian faith was at the centre of his life, and he served his Lord and Saviour joyfully and faithfully in many roles over the years.
John will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his curious and thoughtful mind, his commitment to serving others, and the quiet and steadfast faith that guided him throughout his life. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren, extended family, and the many people whose lives he touched.
The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the caring staff at Hearthstone by the Lake and Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital for the kindness, compassion, and care shown to John.
A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at St. George’s Anglican Church (4691 Palladium Way, Burlington, Ontario). Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John’s memory to Camp Mini-Yo-We (www.campminiyowe.com), an organization to which John and his family have shared a longstanding commitment and special connection.
John lived his life with faith, purpose, and love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com
