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John Harkins

February 6, 2023

It is with profound sadness that the family of John D. Harkins announce his sudden passing on Monday, February 6, 2023 in London, Ontario at the age of 63.  He was born in Sarnia, Ontario on September 25, 1959 to the late Howie and Jackie Harkins.

John is survived by his loving wife Maryanne of 33 years and daughter Sierra.  John is also survived by his two sisters Sherri (Michael) Leclair and Delma (Dave) Lomax.  Uncle to Sonya (Todd) Markovski, Sarah (Brent) Ditchburn, Natasha (Peter) McCullough, and Kaileigh Leclair. Great Uncle to Jacob, Matthew, Grace, Meaghan, Jade, Dax and Brea.

Earning his BA Financial Degree from Western University in 1983, he went on to become VP at Aon Consulting before enjoying a long career at Selectpath as Partner and Employee Benefits Pension Advisor.

His penchant for collecting everything including sports jerseys, colourful outfits, tiki mugs, hats and other paraphernalia was legendary.  He was a world traveler, an avid golfer at the Redtail Golf Club and the Oaks Golf and Country Club, a London Knights supporter, diehard CFL and Western Mustangs fan as well as a member of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats Council.

A loving husband, devoted father, and true friend, John left us far too soon.  He enjoyed living life to the fullest with no regrets and was truly one in a million.  The impact he had will be felt for years to come and he will be missed by all.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where a memorial service will follow at 5:00 p.m.

To register to view the live stream, please click here: Registration page to view John’s live-streamed service on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory are asked to consider Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation.

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I heard of your passing just by chance You were a unique person with a sense of humor like no other Our many adventures in Grand Bend with Skinnypuppy and family will ner be forgotten RIP and condolences to your family Xoxox

~ Grace

So sorry to hear of John’s passing. I was an associate of John’s at Blue Cross and over the years I could always say he was a friend. God Bless John.

~ Rick Rowe

We were so very sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a 'stand out' in many ways from his attire, his personality to his business acumen. We have fond memories of John at the RWAM conferences and will miss his colourful presence. A donation has been made in his memory to the Salthaven Wildlife Centre. Maryanne and Sierra - we extend our sincerest condolences to you and hope you find some comfort in happy memories. Much Love, Barry and Kerry Mount

~ Barry & Kerry Mount

My condolences, I grew up with John on Echo Rd in Sarnia, and I was a few yrs younger, fondly remembered John involved with the neighborhood kids games, road hockey and such. Great guy. Great family. Gone way too soon. Not surprised he was successful. RIP

~ Joe

Maryanne, Sierra & family, May you always remember the wonderful times. I worked with John a number of years ago … Live life to the fullest each day. So sorry for your loss, Janice

~ Janice Dobinson

Sincerest condolences to Maryanne and the Harkins family. I had the pleasure of meeting John over 40 years ago in Geophysics 020 at Western and even back then he stood out in a class of 100 students, he was truly one of a kind. When I look back over my fond memories of that time period so many involved John; classic Superbowl football clashes, parties, golfing outings and even a hockey teammate. The world will be a lot less fun without him, he will be sadly missed, Godspeed John

~ Duane Prouse

Maryanne and Sierra my heart weeps along with you. John was truly a great man. His love for life and abilities to make any type of outings, even with the worst conditions, a truly memorable experience . I loved John like a brother. I will deeply miss you my friend RIP

~ Greg (Skinny)James

Our deepest condolences to Maryanne, Sierra and the SelectPath team. I had the privilege of working with John for many years when he was the Benefits Consultant for HHS. He truly was larger than life, always living life to the fullest while lighting up every room with his warm smile and infectious laughter. Taken way too soon, may he Rest In Peace.

~ Arlene & John Coppolino

A donation has been made to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation. Message from the donator: My sincerest condolences to the entire Harkins Family. Thinking of you Maryanne and Sierra during this unfortunate time. John was a wonderful human being and we have all benefited having him touch a part of our lives. He will be missed. I will miss him. - Southy

~ Brian (Southy) Southwell

Our lives changed forever less than one week ago and the hole in our hearts will be difficult to mend. If you were ever around John Harkins and not having fun, you were the problem! Whether it be his outrageous wardrobe or his joke repertoire, John was always up for a good time. Maryanne and Sierra, thank you for sharing John with us for all these years, we send you our deepest condolences and friendship forever. Let’s all watch over these woman and wrap them in the friendship and love that John provided to each of us. May we all live with John Harkin’s zest for life. Godspeed my friend.

~ Kevin & Andrea Routley

I worked with John for several years and he was a colourful guy who had a admirable ability to live life to the fullest. John impressed on me and others I am, sure to live life to the fullest and have fun doing it. I can still hear the GNR ringtone on his cellphone as he walked through the office. Condolences to John’s family, gone far to soon. RIP John, you touched many lives.

~ Roberta

My condolences to John's family. Besides knowing John from The Oaks, I was constantly running into him at different golf tournaments. What a delightful person. Always full of life.

~ Norm Middaugh

So very sorry for your loss. I worked with john over the years, most notably when he was at AON. He always made me laugh and somehow group insurance became fun with John around. Thinking of you at this very sad time.

~ Wendy Anderson

Maryanne and Sierra our sincere sympathy for your loss. We worked with John at the Holiday Inn thirty odd years ago and he was certainly the life and soul of any party. I life ended far too soon, RIP John.

~ Volker and Christine Jendhoff

Dear Maryanne and Sierra sending our deepest condolences to you both. John was our benefit broker for Medbuy Corporation and I had the honour to work with him for many years. He helped my husband, during a difficult time in my life, when I broke my ankle in Montreal and he was very instrumental to help have me brought back home. I truly appreciated his kindness, knowledge and wisdom over the years. He talked about his family with much love. I was shocked to learn John passed. John, may you Rest in Peace, you and your bright smile will be missed. Colin and Marina Peers

~ Marina and Colin Peers

My sincere condolences to John's family & friends. As a colleague I didn't have the privilege of knowing John well or long, but he was larger than life & seemed to live every moment to the fullest & with gusto! His flamboyant style & welcoming personality will be missed at the office. Rest in peace.

~ Krista Burge

John was more a friend of a friend but he was full value to be around. He held some classic Super Bowl parties and I saw some great bands with him and Rez; an Iggy Pop show comes to mind - “Lust for Life” could’ve been written with John in mind. My condolences to his family.

~ Mike Power

Maryanne and Sierra, Words are not enough to express Liz and my condolences to you and your family on the passing of John. John, was a wonderful friend. It is quite evident he was respected and cherished by everyone who knew him. “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday” May our friendship and prayers ease you through this difficult time. Sincerely, Steve and Liz Davis

~ Steve & Liz Davis

A donation has been made to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation. Message from the donator: Dear Maryanne, Sending you and Sierra my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy as you navigate such a terrible loss. In time, trust all your wonderful memories will ease your pain - you know more than anyone, John “lived life large” and I’ve no doubt he enjoyed it all the more having you at his side. Take care of yourself, my friend. Love, Karen

~ Karen Dowsett

Maryanne and family, John will be sadly missed. My times back in Ontario were always highlighted with visits with you and John. I’ve known him for over 50 years. I remember the times in Sarnia, playing in the park, boating, going to the cottage, and hanging with our cousins. John was always a big part of my trips back to Ontario, to go to the western and Hamilton, football games, grey cup festivities, barbecues, and general gatherings at Joe cools. John was bigger than life and I considered him a true friend. My thoughts and heart go out to you and your family. Sincerely, Bob

~ Robert Julian

Harkins was a close friend to my parents. I remember going to his house at an extremely young age and being in awe at his hockey card collection, video games and sports jerseys. I must have only 10 years but remember those visits like they were yesterday. I'm 40 now and a knights seasons ticket holder. Every game I stand up and look down at John in his seats below and look to see what custom hockey jersey he was wearing that game. John always had time to chat with me. I'll miss seeing him at games.

~ Nick Pearce

Like so many, I am sure, I was shocked and saddened by John’s passing. He played an integral part in the Ahria (formerly Carswell Partners) journey and despite our differences, he was a strong supporter of my success. I will always remember John for being larger than life and showing me that anything is possible. Godspeed John.

~ Terry Gillis

To an amazing guy with an infectious spirit, you will be missed. I had the pleasure of working with John during my tenure as the London Knights Marketing Director for many years. While working with John on designing the wildest Knights warm up jerseys to motivating our team to win the jackets at the Knights Charity golf tournament year after year his passion for creativity, sport, music, and success was outstanding. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, & colleagues as we lost one of the greats far too soon! Hareball

~ Geoffrey Hare

John was a large part of the success shared by the volunteers at the Corey Perry A Round For A Cure golf tournament that ran in the mid 2000s. He was always great to be around. RIP John.

~ Matt Gallien

john was one in amillion. he was a good friend and a great person gone to soon.

~ peter m maynard

It is with great sadness that we read about John’s passing - far too young with so much more to give to our community and his family. One in a Million Remembered by Many Generous of Heart RIP, my friend. Bob Kayser Boys and Girls Club of London Volunteer.

~ Bob Kayser

My sincere condolences Maryanne!

~ Jerry Henshall

A donation has been made to Salthaven. Message from the donator: Our sincere condolences to John's family and so many friends. John is one of a kind and was an absolute joy to work with.

~ Empire Life Sales & Service Team

I'm in shock and disbelief. We've lost a true legend and larger than life personality. John, You have been a cherished friend for almost 40 years. The concerts we've been to, the trips taken, the massive amounts of music we've shared and the drinks we've had together will all be extremely fond memories that will stay with me forever. I will miss you greatly my friend. My heart weeps for Maryanne and Sierra.

~ Tony James

It was the Fez, I tell ya, the Fez. We sat behind the London contingency at our beloved Hamilton Ticats. That unmistakable head dress would let us know that Johnny was in the house at Tim Hortons Field. If you didn't see him at the game, there was a good chance that you would see him on the 11 o'clock news with tsn or chch, next to Jeff Brown, making sure that he made his point. We shared stories of our industry as competitors, but we were always friends and colleagues when we were together. To all of his wingmen, be ready. The torch is about to be passed. You have much work to do. I hope that we can honour John with the great stories of his life. To you, Maryanne and Sierra, Rose and I send our heart felt sympathies. RIP big John.

~ Steve Marsh

I had to meet this character I would see at Knights games that was always wearing a different jersey. I soon found out there was a story behind every one. I called him Jersey John. He lived life to the max. Always made you smile. A very unique and cool guy with the best stories ! I posted on social media about the problems I was having with my puppy chewing recently. John messaged me about what had worked for their puppy. That was John. Always wanting to help. A really great guy. My heart goes out to Maryanne. Rest in peace brother. It was a privilege to know you.

~ Merv Hawkins

Maryanne & Sierra, We are completely in shock after learning of John’s passing. He will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives he touched. He was truly one of a kind, enjoying life to the fullest. We always looked forward to seeing which sweater he would wear at the Knights games. Your hearts will be breaking right now, but you can take comfort in knowing how much your husband and dad loved you both. RIP John - far too soon, but you were one of the good ones.

~ Ron & Teresa McRae

John was full of life and always was a pleasure to be with. We met at the Oaks and everyone knew John and his in your face enthusiasm. He lived life and thought he’s left us far too soon he enjoyed every second of his time with us. My sincere condolences to his family and many friends. He will be remembered.

~ Michael Stawecki

Dear Maryanne and Sierra, We send you our sincere condolences on John's passing. He will be forever remembered by all who knew him. We remember his wonderful sense of humour and of course, his colourful outfits. He was passionate about his family, music and sports - go Tiger Cats. John was a good friend and we although we can't be with you, we are thinking of you with deepest sympathy for your loss. Jamie & Julie

~ Jamie & Julie Stiles

My sincerest condolences to Maryanne and the rest of the Harkins family.

~ Colin Read

I can’t believe this. I was close to John during his Western years and summers in Grand Bend. We travelled to Florida together on an unforgettable bus trip. He brought the world so much love and laughter. I know how much he loved Maryanne. The world just lost someone special.

~ Brad Morgan

Maryanne and family, what a heartbreaking realization today when I say that John had passed. Leigh and my condolences are sent your way, knowing the void that has made its way into your life. As you are no doubt hearing over and over again, John was a one of a kind individual, who no matter who you are, always made you feel better after meeting him, that you did beforehand. John's outgoing personality was to many, the only thing that was able to mute his colorful outfits. His laugh, his goofiness, and his sincerity was what made John the person he was, and although our interaction was minimal since we left the oaks, it will always be what my memories of John will hold dear. Please know that both Leigh and my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this very difficult time. Sincerely Paul Francis Loreto ( Leigh Graham-Loreto)

~ Paul and Leigh Loreto

A donation has been made to Bluewater Center for Raptor Rehabilitation. Message from the donator: On behalf of the Village of Point Edward I would like to send our deepest condolences in your recent loss. I enjoyed working with John over the years. He will be missed.

~ Teena Thibeault Village of Point Edward

My thoughts and prayers are with you Maryanne and Sierra. John brought joy to every situation. I loved working with him and being his good friend. He will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

~ Sandra Harkness

Sending sincere condolences to Maryanne & Sierra and family, I’m so very sorry for your loss. I have known John for many years through my work with the Ticats and TigerTown Council. John was a wonderful guy who could really light up a room. His zest for the Tiger-Cats was always so much fun, he will certainly be missed by many from the Ticats community.

~ Lyndsay Boyd

I met John through Tony James and I am so grateful to have known such a funny and outgoing person. I won’t forget our New Years get together at our mutual friends home. John’s lovely song he sang at the campfire made us all laugh. (I hope the video attaches to this). My sincere sympathies go to Maryanne and Sierra.

~ Cindy Kirkwood

What an honour and privilege to have known John, truly one of kind. He brought incredible energy, enthusiasm, and wit to every encounter. John was not one to be on the sidelines, his lust for life was infectious, he was a role model for how life should be lived and will always be an inspiration to me. And that sense of style - wow! Maryanne and Sierra, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

~ Brian McGorman

Will miss you on the next Grey Cup adventure John!!! Till we meet again RIP

~ Aron Burch

John and I lived across the street on Errol Rd in Sarnia as kids. Lots of great memories with John and his family. My sincerest condolences to all!

~ Terry Wilson

A donation has been made to Salthaven. Message from the donator: I was a friend of John's when we were kids growing up in Sarnia. He was a great guy and I am sure he will be missed by all those who loved him. Sending our sincere sympathy and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time. Andrew & Karen Deeprose

~ Andrew Deeprose

Our condolences Maryanne and Sierra. John was a force and a bright light in your lives - ours too. He certainly holds a special place in our hearts. We have fond memories of the Summer Solstice parties in Irwinland. John holding court with the best one-liners about the fireworks, sports in general, or whatever we happened to the yammering about. We were fortunate to know how caring he was. He had a big heart. He did so much for his friends and for his community. May he rest in peace.

~ Bob and Angie Baker

My deepest condolences to Maryanne and Sierra and family. I was so saddened to hear about John's passing. I have wonderful memories of John, especially our many trips to Toronto to watch our beloved Leafs. Rest in peace John. You are one of a kind! Prayers and thoughts to Maryanne,Sierra and family. Joe and Ann

~ Joe Sgotto

Our condolences to Maryanne and Sierra from the Hutchings family. There was never a dull moment with John, always a story or two to tell after every road trip or get together. He had a great life Spirit, second to none! What a road trip we had to Boston to see the Grateful Dead! Great times at Whistler, Mt St. Anne and Thanksgiving game in Detroit. We will miss you John! RIP Bosco

~ Russ Hutchings Bosco

Johnny was truly one of a kind. He had the special ability to walk into a room and take it over, with everyone hanging on his every word as he shared his stories. He was a great man, a great husband, a great father, a great friend and a great human being. I was honoured to have him as my friend. He had a heart of gold, and was always willing to give or help out in any way he could. It is going to be really different at the Rival Charity Golf tournament this year with out John. John gave so much to our tournament, in his time, his connections for our charites, and as our auctioneer. The world has a very big void in it today with out John, a void that not one person can fill, but maybe together we can all carry a peice of John with us. He was truly one of the good ones. Johnny my friend I will miss you and never forget you Our thoughts and prayers are with Maryanne and Sierra and the rest of his family

~ Ken Lucas

This is a great loss for all of us. John had such a spark to him that you rarely come across. He was funny and unique. He was a treat to be around and his clothing was outstanding!! We are going to miss him cheering on the Tiger-Cats. Deepest regrets.

~ Glenn Gibson

Our sincere condolences to Maryanne and Sierra on this tremendous loss! Heather and I were friends with John, and we always looked forward to seeing John and his family. Despite all of John's business accomplishments, he accomplished so much as a friend and community minded individual. Its rare to know someone who was so eager to meet-up, and spend time together in so many different ways... on the golf course, the arena or football field, concert hall or small club, charitable fundraiser, or in support of someone who needed a helping hand, John was the complete package. John was also an exceptional music resource with encyclopedic knowledge of anything that sounded cool! He expanded our musical tastes and was a massive fan with a giant repository of live musical experiences. When I want to think of something positive, genuine, and ebullient, it will be John!

~ Charles and Heather Nelson

Maryanne and Sierra, my heartfelt condolences on the passing of John. I worked with him but also considered myself and him as good friends. It was especially fun to reminisce about Sarnia.

~ Doug Spettigue

Dear Maryanne and Sierra Sincere condolences to you and family. John was our brother in business. He will be missed. He left us too soon but also left us with lasting memories. Take care❤️🙏

~ Wayne and Patti Koch

Maryanne and Sierra, please know that we are thinking of you with heavy hearts with the news of John’s passing. We are also remembering with smiles the positivity that John exuded at the many conferences we were fortunate enough to attend with him. There was never a dull moment with John in attendance. His quest for treasures to add to his collections was legendary as was his attire! But more than that, his kindness and giving nature was what we will remember most. RIP John ❤️ Trish & Rob Campbell

~ Trish & Rob Campbell

I was blessed with meeting John when I joined The Oaks Golf Club five years ago. Playing the course and hanging out on the patio with him — as many will testify here — was always a joyful experience. John’s lust for life, honest compassion and unwavering positivity is a way of being that we all should mirror. And boy could he tell stories. Sincere condolences to his wife and daughter, family and close friends. Love you Fancy Pants! RJB from Merida, Mexico

~ Ron Bala

I was blessed with meeting John when I joined The Oaks Golf Club five years ago. Playing the course and hanging out on the patio with him — as many will testify here — was always a joyful experience. John’s lust for life, honest compassion and unwavering positivity is a way of being that we all should mirror. And boy could he tell stories. Sincere condolences to his wife and daughter, family and close friends. Love you Fancy Pants! RJB, from Merida, Mexico

~ Ron Bala

John, you are in the memories of most of my adult life. It was fantastic working with you, but more importantly, calling you a friend. You will be very much missed.

~ Doris & George Forbes

Services for John Harkins

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

February 11, 2023 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Memorial Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

February 11, 2023 5:00 pm

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Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation

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