DEMPSTER, John

John passed away on Dec. 4, 2024, in Oakville, Ontario, two days after his 98th birthday. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, December 2, 1926. He lived a long and full life.

John is predeceased by his loving wife, Susan Harvey Dempster (née Lennox), his parents, Jessie and Nelson Sn. and his brother, Nelson. He is survived by his loving children, Mary, Cynthia and Andrew, grandchildren, Dylan and Kiri, great grandson, Xavi, and brother, Arthur. He also leaves behind many students who were touched by his work as a high school teacher and friends at St. John’s United Church.

John began his teaching career at the Haile Selassie Secondary School, near Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It was there that he met his wife-to-be, Susan.

He continued his teaching career in Ontario, teaching high school in Meaford and in Oakville. Most of his career was spent at Thomas A. Blakelock High School and Queen Elizabeth Park High School in Oakville. His main subject was French. He also taught German, English and Music.

John was a very kind man. He had a strong sense of duty and ethics. It mattered to him to treat others well and he cared about human rights, the environment, Canada and the world at large.

John had a deep love of music. He was a lovely singer and pianist. He was a passionate collector of CDs, specializing in historical singers. Schubert lieder and hymns were among his favourite vocal music. One of his very favourite songs was “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from the musical Carousel. This song was playing in his head the night before he embarked for Ethiopia.

John was a dedicated Christian. His faith in God and service ignited and guided his decisions and his daily life.

John was very sensitive to nature. He loved and respected the earth and all living creatures.

John was married for over 60 years to the love of his life, Susan. They were married in 1955. They celebrated their 60th anniversary just before her death, in 2015.

John was stalwart and faithful. He carried on. He stayed the course. John was devoted to his family, who he helped and encouraged throughout his long life

John was artistic. His main passion was photography. He was also a sometimes-poet.

John has been a light during his life. He has spread wisdom, humour and joy. He is deeply loved by family and friends. He will be remembered for his strong character, caring nature and sensitivity. To offer an online condolence please visit oakviewfuneral.ca