John Craw
June 18, 1938 - September 6, 2019
Funeral Details: Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at The Wheel Community Hall in Sandy Cove Acres, 2 Weeping Willow Drive, Innisfil
John passed away peacefully in his 82nd year on Friday, September 6, 2019 at Hospice Simcoe.
John, beloved husband for 54 years of Bonnie. Loving father of Jennifer Larock (Tom Churchill), predeceased by his son David Craw (Trish Craw) and predeceased by his son-in-law Barry Larock. John was predeceased by his father, John Craw and his mother, Jean (Thomson) Craw. He was the cherished Papa of Ally, Trent, Ashley, Cassandra and Great Papa to Chloe. Beloved brother of; Betty Wilson (Roy), Janet Penny, Sheila Wood and predeceased by sister, Jessie Coutts. Predeceased by brothers-in-law Jack, George and Ed. Dear brother-in-law of June Holohan (Bob), Linda Anderson, Norine Keevil, Heather Dunn (Wayne). Loving uncle and great uncle to many nieces and nephews. Dedicated master to his dog, Nelson.
Gardening was one of Johns many passions. A little spot of solace that allowed him to make the world a little brighter and more lovely for us all. His mastery of the garden allowed John to take care of the plants that needed him, just as he did his family. He loved to garden at his own home and loved to share his expertise and knowledge with others as part of the Markham Garden Society, Canadian Wildflower Society, Painswick Horticultural Society, Innisfil Garden Club, and teaching “For the Love of Gardening” for the Town of Innisfil. John co-founded the Innisfil Community Gardens at Knock School.
John’s passions did not stop at gardening. He was also passionate about spending time with family and friends, travel, model railroading, photography, and desserts. Involving himself in genealogy; he researched the Craw Family history back several hundred years. He was also an avid curler at the Stroud Curling Club.
Following his retirement from Petro-Canada, he furthered his education, knowledge, and skills in gardening, by enrolling in Ryerson University’s Landscape Architecture program, graduating with honours. He enjoyed his final job at Home Depot, Barrie.
Family and friends are invited to the Celebration of Life honouring John on Sunday, September 22, from 2 – 4 pm at The Wheel (community hall) in Sandy Cove Acres (located at 2 Weeping Willow Drive, Innisfil). In lieu of flowers, donations to Operation Smile-Canada or Hospice Simcoe would be appreciated by the family.
Interment at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Toronto.
Barbara Tomkins
Posted on: Thursday, September 12, 2019Dear Bonnie,
I am thinking of you with much sadness at this difficult time and sending lots of loving thoughts your way.
Barb
Beverly Rath
Posted on: Monday, September 16, 2019Dear Bonnie, I just heard of your husband’s passing while I was visiting with Lorraine yesterday. Sincere condolences to you and your family.
Bev Rath
Diane Sykes
Posted on: Thursday, September 19, 2019Bonnie & family: I am so sorry for your loss.
I will always remember the fun & laughter while working in the garden with John.
Pat Mcguire
Posted on: Friday, September 20, 2019It was a pleasure knowing John and Bonnie and Nelson.
Be at peace now John. Pat X
Judy Kurtz
Posted on: Friday, September 20, 2019Dear Bonnie and family,
Tom and I send our warmest thoughts to you at this time. I have missed John at the last couple of Horticulture Seminars, he was always there greeting friends with his warm smile! May your memories help you through this loss and the passing of time heal your soul.
Sincerely,
Tom and Judy Kurtz
Judy Kurtz
Posted on: Friday, September 20, 2019Dear Bonnie,
Tom and I send warm thoughts to you at this time. I have missed John at the last couple of Horticulture Seminars. His welcoming smile was always a nice greeting to everyone! May your memories help you through this difficult period and may the passing of time heal your soul.
Most Sincerely,
Tom and Judy Kurtz
Janis Hamilton
Posted on: Friday, September 20, 2019Bonnie, On behalf of Oro-Medonte Horticultural
Society and myself, I’m so sorry you’ve lost John. John spoke many times at our meetings and delighted us with his sense of humour, his knowledge and his sense of wanting to share. We hope you will celebrate the wonderful life you had together and that will give you comfort.
Janis Hamilton
Past President
Joan Nieman-agapas
Posted on: Saturday, September 21, 2019Dear Bonnie & family,
Deepest sympathies to you on your loss from Simcoe County Master Gardeners.
He was a mentor & inspiration to many new members, always generous with his time,
encouragement & sharing knowledge of gardening. His enthusiasm was contagious.
Paradise will be more beautiful for his presence there. God bless.
Kelly Noel
Posted on: Sunday, September 22, 2019I remember John well for his thoughtful and useful comments and contributions as a director on the board of Master Gardeners of Ontario. He truly was a gentle man and a gentleman. May he rest in peace.