John Reay

Suddenly, but peacefully on Friday November 15th, John Reay passed away with his family by his side. Beloved husband of Joy, they were devoted to each other for life. Loving father of Shirley (Robert), Paula (Alex), Keith and Glenn (Christine). Proud Grandfather of Robert, Douglas, Kimberly (Amrin), Katelin and Carter. Proud Great-Grandfather of Alexandra. Caring brother of Dorothy.

Many thanks to the wonderful Doctors & Nurses at York Finch Hospital Emergency for your care and kindness.

John was born in Wallasey, England in 1927. He met his future wife Joy when he was only 7 years old. He and his friend, who lived next door, sprinkled water on Joy and her friend through the hedge.
At age 11 he moved to West Haven, Connecticut where he lived with his uncle and aunt for a few years – one of his happiest memories. Three years after returning to England he was called into the Army where he worked as a radio operator in the Royal Corps of Signals where he was stationed in Germany.
Home on leave, he met Joy again, and this time, aged 19 he told his mother, “I’m going to marry her.” And he did! They were married for the rest of his life.
Following his stint in the army he was employed by the Cunard Steamship Company and in 1951 sailed on Cunard’s Franconia, emigrating to Canada with Joy and his daughter Shirley.
Settling in Toronto, he and Joy had three more children, Paula, Keith and Glenn – and for all of his life his family always came first.
He was employed at Grinnell for the greater part of his career, and worked for 10 happy years at Tufline before retiring in his 70’s.
He had exceptional math skills, and loved solving puzzles. His favourite opera was Rigoletto, and his favourite painting – The Laughing Cavalier.