CORNISH, John Edward Cornish
October 30, 2025With profound sadness and deep love, we announce the passing of John Edward Cornish on October 30, 2025, at the young age of 57. John was the devoted husband and soulmate of April, the proud and loving father of Janie, Jesse and Clayton (Michelle), and the adoring “Poppa Bear” to his first grandlove, Layne, who brought him immeasurable joy.
John was the beloved son of Marie and the late James, and the cherished brother of Lynn (Mike), Ann (Paul) and the late Bob (Heather). He leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including many nieces and nephews who will deeply miss their Uncle John. While his passing leaves an ache in the hearts of those who loved him, there is comfort in knowing he has been reunited with his father and brother.
Professionally, John built a respected career as a Senior Project Manager in the automotive industry, where his work ethic and leadership took him around the world. In his early 20s, he travelled to England, a milestone that sparked his lifelong curiosity and love of adventure. During his 30s, while raising a young family, he proudly set-up and managed projects in the U.S and Mexico, accomplishments that remained among his proudest professional achievements.
In recent years, John found renewed passion and purpose in his work with Zentek, where he felt truly fulfilled, contributing to innovations in the health and science industry and feeling he was part of something meaningful and lasting.
He loved snowmobiling through fresh winter trails and the boys’ time that brought them all together. His love of outdoor adventures also included escapes on the Harley with his wife tucked in behind him as the best passenger ever. Nothing made him happier than discovering new country roads to travel, enjoying a new restaurant and the friendly wave to fellow riders.
His family was the centre of his life. His kids and his wife were his greatest joy and a constant source of pride. He loved making memories with those he loved the most. In the morning, he would wake up and say, “what is our adventure going to be today?”
He touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His gentle nature, quiet strength and endless empathy made the world feel softer and kinder. Whether it was offering a helping hand to a stranger or a word of comfort to a friend, he gave himself freely and without hesitation. His kindness was not a gesture, but a way of being. Even in passing, he continued his life’s legacy of generosity through organ and tissue donation, giving others the precious gift of hope and healing. His eyes, kidneys, lungs, bone and tissue were transplanted in his passing through the remarkable program Trillium Gift of Life Network.
Services will be held on Saturday, November 8 at Armstrong Funeral Home, 124 King Street East, Oshawa. Visitation from 1-4pm followed by a service at 4pm. A private burial will take place at a later date, for immediate family, at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.
- Location: DURHAM REGION, ON
- Funeral Home: ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME
