John "Jack" Strachan McKinnon

It is with profound sadness, that we announce the passing of John “Jack” Strachan McKinnon in his 88th year. Jack passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Jack leaves behind his loving wife of 40 years and constant companion, Joy, and his three devoted children, Nancy Shanks (Gary), Sandra Gillis (Randy) and Kyle McKinnon (Stevie), as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews and nieces. Predeceased by his parents, John and Pauline McKinnon, sister, Pauline Padilla, daughter, Sue McKinnon and son, John McKinnon, Jack will be fondly remembered by his extended family, friends and neighbours.

Jack was born and raised in Toronto. He built a remarkable career in information technology (IT) in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa, owning his own company and later working in IT in both the private and public sectors.  Although he liked working with computers, Jack loved the outdoors and enjoyed many family camping and boating adventures in the Georgian Bay area. Jack thrived when he spent time at his property on Sheffield Lake and later when he and Joy lived on their small hobby farms in the Ottawa region, Sutton and Uxbridge/Port Perry.  Later in life, Jack enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and neighbours, his beloved cats and his birds, when he wasn’t busy in his workshop.  Jack was known for his generosity, positive outlook, contagious sense of humour and fun-loving disposition. During his illness, Jack received exceptional care at Lakeridge Health Port Perry, Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham.  We would like to thank the nurses, personal support workers and doctors whose devoted care and kindness made Jack’s final weeks much more comfortable.

A Celebration of Life is planned for April or May 2022.  Spring was Jack’s favourite season! Donations to The Humane Society of Durham Region - Animal Rescue , the Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham or the Port Perry Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated.