John McCrae

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we share the passing of a truly remarkable soul. John Allan McCrae, a beloved resident of Sundridge, Ontario, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 14, 2025, at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. Born on November 19, 1944, in Quebec City to the late Brant and Lilian McCrae (née Bouchard), John was the loving father of Richard, and Laura (Sébastien) McCrae, and devoted brother to Robert McCrae, the late Patricia McMartin, Karen Awram (Gerry), Linda Meier (the late Rolf), the late Kenneth McCrae, and Marilyn Briese (Dave). He was also a proud uncle to many nieces and nephews. 

John’s journey began in Quebec City, but his early years were primarily spent in southern Ontario, from Sarnia to Hamilton, and finally Windsor. His later years were spent in the serene beauty of Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands. 

As an avid outdoorsman and fitness aficionado, John could often be found rowing across the lake, searching for lures in the reeds, hiking in the woods, swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the peace he found in nature. He imparted this love of the wilderness to his children, nieces, and nephews, all of whom will cherish the memories they shared with him on the lake.

A beautiful writer, John was always researching an interesting historical era or journaling his daily musings on life and the universe. His family eagerly awaited his emailed stories about his life in Sundridge. He spun reflective and entertaining narratives, always with his wry wit and teasing tone.

To know John was to know a man of profound depth and humility. A lover of literature, science, and the mysteries of the universe, John could recite most of the Shakespearean sonnets from memory, and was excited to share his knowledge about the constellations, and how the brain works. His curiosity was limitless.

John was an exceptional man, and his genuine enthusiasm for life was infectious. His deep inner life fueled his quest to grow, evolve, and be better. He cherished solitude and the quiet moments spent gazing at the stars or the full moon rising above beautiful Lake Bernard. John was always searching for the best view of the brightest stars—our very own shining light.  His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him. John, you were so loved and will be profoundly missed.

A special thank you to Dr. Kirkpatrick, Dr. Harrold, John’s nursing team, and Suzanne, Don, Jenna and their families. Your kindness will forever be remembered. 

John will be cremated, and his ashes will be spread in a place close to his heart. A private

Celebration of Life will be held at that time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his honour to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Near North Enviro-Education Centre, or a charity of your choosing.

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