He of Walkerton passed April 5, 2026, at Brucelea Haven, Walkerton, mere hours after laughing with family and one day shy of his 95th birthday. John was the first-born of 14 children to the late Edward and Amelia (nee Benninger). From an early age, he took on significant family responsibilities, often helping to support his family even though it meant sacrificing time with his siblings. Up until his illness, most people thought he was significantly younger. John’s devoted wife, Joan (nee Wilhelm), was the love of his life for 65 years.
Prior to moving to Walkerton in 2001 for retirement, he had lived on Concession 14 of Carrick his whole life and loved being part of the Carslruhe neighbourhood. He was a diligent worker, was not one to complain, was quick with a smile and enjoyed good-natured teasing of which he held onto until his passing. He was often quiet and always kind, having helped many family, friends, and neighbours over the course of his life. Once upon a time he was a square dance caller and he enjoyed country-western music and dancing. He was blessed to live in his own home until a short time before his passing.
He was a lifelong and valuable member of St. Francis Xavier Parish Carlsruhe until his retirement, then Sacred Heart Parish Walkerton and was a Chartered member of Hanover K of C for 62 years where he contributed his time in many ways. John was a vital part of the Neustadt-Normanby-Carrick Agriculture Society for over 35 years which was something that he quite enjoyed.
John Grubb married Joan in 1960, bought the farm in 1962 from his dad, and for 41 years they farmed together. They started what was first mixed farming and then became dairy farmers. Here they raised their family, joyfully looked after grandchildren, and eventually retired to Walkerton where they kept each other in good health (for which John gave significant credit to Joan) and aged together gracefully. John shared that he very much treasured this time of their life. This was possible with the assistance of kind, helpful neighbours such as Steve and Gayle, Evan, John and Linda and for which their children are forever grateful.
Although John was a man of few words, through action he demonstrated his love and pride for his children who miss him immensely. They remember him not only lovingly but with gratitude for all the years they had together: Paul of Parry Sound, Doug (Barb) of Carlsruhe, Randy of Kitchener, Deb (Jeff) Chalmers of Ripley, Rose (Joe) Huber of Carlsruhe, Wayne (Leigh) of Kitchener and Mike (Barb) of Maryhill. He had an incredibly soft and loving heart towards his thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. We imagine there was a blissful heavenly reunion with granddaughter Larissa Chalmers, daughter-in-law Andrea West, and the many relatives and friends that predeceased him.
Dear brother of Doreen Weber, Phyllis Niesen, and Francis; and dear brother-in-law of Norbert Wilhelm, Leona Grubb, Wilfred (Teri) Wilhelm, Gladys Kerr, Vincent (Connie) Wilhelm, and Deborah Wilhelm. John will also be missed by many nephews, nieces, and friends.
Predeceased by siblings and siblings-in-law, Ray (Helen), Austin (Leona), Dorothy (Jerome) Wilhelm and Jerome’s 2nd wife Marjorie, Walter (Anne), Geraldine Wilhelm, Joseph (infancy), Lucille (Richard) Miller (& Robert Lang), Stanley Weber, Shirley, Marlene (infancy), Donald Niesen, Edward Grubb and Brenda Grubb; Francis (Annabelle) Wilhelm, Elizabeth Wilhelm, Jack Kerr and James Wilhelm.
Friends and relatives are invited to visitation from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Cameron’s in Walkerton. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church, Walkerton. Fr. Leszek Szczygiel presiding. Reception to follow in the Sacred Heart Parish Hall.
Spring interment in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Carlsruhe.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Saugeen Hospice or Walkerton and District Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Donations and condolences may be made online at www.cameronfuneralhomes.com
