John Donald MacPherson was born on June 4, 1926 to JP and Barbara MacPherson. He grew up in Englehart, Ontario.
John married Ethel Blackburn and had four daughters - Kerrie, Bonnie, Heather and Jaye.
John spent the last 30 years of his life with Tillie Wylie and her children and grandchildren were like his own.
John was "a heavy duty equipment mechanic whose hobbies involved building things like steam engines and repairing everything from tractors to toasters".
"However, in typical John fashion, he continued to make the best of each day and lived the AA creed 'one day at a time.' John will be remembered for his humour and good wit, his skill on the dance floor, his amazing mechanical mind and abilities, his love of music and all things steam powered. He never hesitated to look for the best in others, help those in need or find the silver lining in any cloud. He will also be remembered for calling every woman in his life 'Honey' often because it would take a couple of attempts to get the right name otherwise. And, his expressions will live on 'Listen here Peaches' when a reprimand was in order, 'Pull up your socks' when encouragement and a little push were required and 'Dirty dying old dog-hair' to describe any somewhat sketchy situation." - from obituary
John suffered a stroke shortly after his surprise 80th birthday party and died on March 28, 2012 at the age of 85.
"The best thing one could do to honor John's memory is to call someone important to you today and tell them that you love them. John did that a lot, and we'll miss that most of all." - from obituary
"Papa - I learned so much from you - not to judge those down on their luck, because it could just as easily have been me; the importance of being gracious in victory and defeat; the need to admit mistakes, make amends and move on; and never to slurp my milkshake : ) I am inspired by the way you faced adversity and managed to find something to smile about in every day. I feel so incredibly lucky to have had you for my Dad. I miss you very, very much. Love you BD" - Bonnie lit a Memorial Candle | April 05, 2012
"You taught us much:determination, happiness and most of all love. We are incredibly fortunate to have shared our lives with you. Good bye is hard, but the memories are fabulous. Love always. And THANK YOU." - Kerrie and David lit a Memorial Candle | April 03, 2012
"I couldn't have asked for a better Dad. I love you." - Heather lit a Memorial Candle | April 03, 2012
"i love you papa" - skippy lit a Memorial Candle | April 04, 2012