KERR, John Kerr

It is with love that we announce the passing of John Kerr, who died on February 15, 2026, at the age of 82, after a period of declining health.

John was born in Glasgow, Scotland, the only child of Rosalind McLarnon and John Kerr. His father was killed in the Second World War when John was just thirteen months old. He was raised by his mother with the support of her parents and extended family, and remained connected to his aunts, uncles, and cousins throughout his life.

In his early twenties, John emigrated to Canada with friends and made this country his home. Soon after, several of his first cousins — Mary, John, and Patsy — also arrived in Canada, and the families spent time together over the years, creating memories and maintaining ties across generations.

John built a successful career in the insurance industry and eventually became Vice President and Partner at HKMB. He worked hard and took pride in providing financially for his family and helping his daughters establish their futures.

John loved Scottish football and was a lifelong Celtic supporter who rarely missed a match. A proud Scot, he often joked that “Scots will do anything for Scotland — except live there,” smiling at the irony of his own move to Canada and his preference for the warmer, drier weather he found here. He was known as a bright thinker and engaging storyteller. He cared for his inner circle and, before dementia affected him, enjoyed a good laugh, conversation, and time spent sharing a drink.

John was married to Hilary Fitzgerald for many years, and together they raised their daughters, Anthea and Gillian. Together they built a close family life, sharing stories of their Irish and Scottish roots and many fun family adventures. Hilary predeceased him in 2003.

John later married Sheila, and they were married for over 20 years. Together they travelled widely, enjoyed cruises, wintered in Florida, and shared the rhythms of everyday life.

In his later years, John lived with dementia and increasing frailty. Even as these challenges progressed, he continued to enjoy looking through family photographs and recalling names, stories, and connections that remained meaningful to him. Sheila was a loving and devoted caregiver to John, supporting him with patience and dedication as his health declined.

John is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sheila, his daughters, Anthea and Gillian, his son-in-laws, Darin and Ben, and his grandchildren, Alene, Cayden, Charlotte, and Eliot. He is also remembered within Sheila’s extended family, including her grandchildren Matthew, Kaitlyn, Natalie, Angelina, James, Robby, and Iris.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society, which provides support for people living with dementia and their families.

A funeral service will likely be held on Friday at 12:00 PM at Dixon-Garland Funeral Home on Markham Main Street. Further details regarding a gathering afterward will be shared once confirmed.

Memorial Service