October 1 1962 - February 3, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to John. John worked so hard to rid himself of cancer. Sadly it was not to be. Johnny departs us leaving the love of his life Jennifer Brownlee who stood by him so steadfastly throughout this struggle. John was predeceased by his father, Dr. John Whitney (2013] and his mother Claire Whitney (2021) . He is survived by siblings Rebecca Whitney( Martin Grimba dec. 2023) Krysta Whitney (Jody McCurdy dec. 2019), Michelle Whitney ( Mark Neil), William Whitney; nieces Whitney Douglas (Paul Henke), Katherine McCall ( Joel McCall), Meredith Douglas (Gerry Howe) Lily Whitney Neil.
Great nieces and nephews Acacia, Noah, Amelia, Quinn and Stella. John too had cherished step children with Jennifer. Gary(Krista), Amber(Andrew) and Alix(Evan). Johnny was the adoring “Papa John” to Tara, Chayce and Madison . He is also survived by our step dad Ken Alsop.
Johnny struggled to survive early in life and spent several weeks in Sick Kids hospital when he was about 16 months. He underwent radical heart surgery and was the only living survivor from his floor until his death 60 years later. John had a fighting spirit and we saw this over the past year.
Johnny leaves behind so many brokenhearted friends and family. He is described by many as a giant Teddy Bear who always had a smile on his face and a hug to offer. John was a fierce defender of family and family values. He adored his mother Claire and for the past many years hosted Mother’s Day at his home providing all the necessities. He truly loved his beautiful homestead in Oustic and was absolutely fastidious about his gardens and his lawn. He was so proud to have us all there enjoying one of his epic bonfires. Johnny was an avid fisherman but like many, the fish often alluded him and yet he persisted recently purchasing a boat hoping against hope it would bring him more fish.
John had a few very special relationships. We would like to thank his cousin and life long friend, like Batman and Robin, Mark Bailey and his wife Bernadette and his other life long friend John Herwynen and his wife Bonnie for their steadfast support during this difficult time.
We pray that John is catching that perfect fish on that Great Lake in the sky with his constant companion Ziggy who predeceased John by only weeks.
A Celebration of John’s life will take place at Victoria Park East Golf Course March 9th, 11- 2.
Arrangements entrusted to Graham A Giddy Funeral Home