John William McKay

John William McKay, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2024, after a valiant battle with a long illness. Born on October 8, 1950, in Woodstock, Ontario, he was an alumnus of Ridgetown College, and had a lifelong passion for agriculture. John had a delightful habit of taking the “shortcut” on road trips, which invariably turned out to be the scenic route past rolling farms and fields. He cherished these leisurely drives, sometimes punctuated with a stop at a local chip wagon, turning every journey into an adventure and a chance to indulge in his love for the countryside. 

But John was more than just a man of the soil; he was the heart of a bustling family tree that continues to flourish. His beloved wife, Ruth Anne (Waud), was his rock, and together they raised a vibrant family: Karen McKay-Funnell with her husband Adam, Josh with his partner Terra Fielder, Chris, and Meaghan Watson with her husband Taylor. His granddaughters, Mia and Juliet Funnell, Olivia and Aubree McKay, and MacKenzie Watson, were the apples of his eye, and he was the trunk of their family tree.

John was a brother, not just by blood, but by bonds that could rival any comedy duo. Sharon (David Johnson), Brian (Georgia), Mary Jane McKay-Carey (Raymond), Betty McKay-Andrews (Paul), Don E. (Faith), Barry (Laurie), and Kathy Bertrand all shared in the laughter and wisdom he brought to every family gathering. He was a cherished brother-in-law to Dave Waud (Jacalyn), Louise McLennan (Dan), and Lorne Waud (Debbie), and a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, who will miss his funny anecdotes and entertaining tales. 

He was predeceased by his parents, Donald H. and Victoria McKay, his parents-in-law, Harvey and Margaret Waud, and brother-in-law Ken Waud.

John loved his Friday night dates with his “wife and former sweetheart, Ruthie,” his basset hounds, and the Chicago Bears. He delighted in the company of his family and friends and a good story, whether he was reading it or telling it. He could find humour in the hay and wisdom in the weeds. John was a fun-loving, wise, and interesting man who left us all with smiles on our faces and an appreciation for the simple joys in life.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to John’s personal support workers, who have been by his side for nearly five years, and to the health care professionals at University Hospital, Parkwood Institute, The London Regional Cancer Centre, and the warm and compassionate team at Woodstock Hospital who cared for him in his final days. Your dedication and kindness will always be remembered.

A private family funeral has been planned with Rev. Susan Cole officiating. In accordance with John’s wishes, friends and family are invited to an informal celebration of his life on Saturday, June 22nd at Craigowan Golf Club from 1 pm to 5 pm. Please join us to share memories, laughter, and joy in the spirit of John’s love for a good, hearty gathering. Donations in John’s memory can be made to Woodstock Hospital Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or VON Oxford.

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