John Collinson

John Wells Collinson

October 15, 1939 – June 18, 2024

John Wells Collinson passed away peacefully on June 18, 2024. He was born on October 15, 1939 in Heanor, Derbyshire, England. He was predeceased by his parents Gladys and Denis Collinson, and two younger brothers, David and Geoffrey Collinson. He is survived by Deanna Collinson, his loving wife of almost 60 years, and his children and their spouses Christine Hepburn (Neil), Brian (Crystal) and Janice Strong (Stuart); as well as his two wonderful sisters Margaret Furneaux and Eileen Seinader. One of the greatest joys in his life was his grandchildren, and they will miss him fiercely, Hannah & Lauren Hepburn, Brody & Jessica Collinson and Shannon Strong. Also dear to his heart were Deanna’s siblings and their spouses, Donald & Carol Ridsdill and Norma & Gord Houle. Not to be forgotten are all his wonderful nieces and nephews and their children, as well as dear friends locally in Canada, but also in Scotland, England, the Netherlands, France, and Spain.

John’s life started out in a small mining village but he was blessed with parents who had a vision of a better life. Denis, John’s father, realized that although England was beautiful, you “Can’t eat the scenery!” With five young children, he wanted more for them and convinced his wife Gladys to depart for Canada in 1954.

What a world opened up to John. He graduated with high marks from high school, and went on to become a chartered accountant. His love of people and ability to talk to just about anyone led him to an interesting career in sales that saw his family live in Kirkland Lake, London Ontario, and then the Netherlands for 3 years where they traveled extensively through Europe. John worked all over the world and enjoyed sharing insights he’d gained through his experiences.

John’s strong faith had him singing in the choir as a young boy, performing solos at weddings and pumping the church organ (once his voice broke!) Sharing in church life throughout the years wherever he lived was important and he was involved with St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, Dixie for over 50 years.

He never left behind his love of brass bands, football (soccer!), good fish & chips, and sticky toffee pudding at the pub. In retirement, he was devoted to cottaging in Muskoka, golfing and house exchanges in Europe and Britain, and visiting every cathedral in England.

However, his greatest love was his family and friends. He gave the biggest bear hugs, loved to laugh and was so pleased to see his children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews growing and learning and making their own paths in life.

He loved Deanna’s cooking, entertaining friends and gathering family to celebrate special occasions and debate the issues of the day.

We will all gather to celebrate his life at St. John the Baptist Anglican Church Dixie, 737 Dundas Road East, Mississauga, L4Y 2B5 on June 28^th, 2024. The church service will begin at 1 1 am, with a reception to follow.