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John Lister “Jay” Orchard

July 25, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that John ‘Jay’ Lister Orchard passed peacefully with family by his side on July 25, 2025. Jay was the beloved husband of Janet for 39 years, and a loving father of Ellen (Mark) and Claire (Mitchell). He is survived by his sister-in-law Carol (Brian), brother-in-law Ross (Carol), and a cherished uncle to Lisa, Jocelyn, Russ, and their families. Predeceased by his parents Dr. John Orchard (2010), F. Millicent Orchard (2010) and many aunts and uncles. Jay will be fondly remembered by friends, coworkers and all who knew him. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at LHSC and the Community Health Care workers who played a role in Jay’s healthcare journey. Cremation has taken place. A ‘Celebration of Life’ will be held in October.

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Dear Janet, Clair and Ellen, we were sad to hear the news about your father. He was such a lovely man, up beat, kind and we always enjoyed our conversations with him. We wish you strength during the days ahead as you keep your wonderful memories of him alive. Take care,

~ Peter and Linda Pistor

To Janet and family, Our sincere condolences to everyone. Jay was such a good neighbour throughout the years. He was so helpful and knowledgeable. He wouldn't hesitate to offer whenever we needed a hand or to give advice about various aspects of home ownership from dealing with a bees nest to unclogging a pressure washer. It was always a pleasure having a conversation with him about many topics of interest. He will be missed.

~ Joanne and Dave Tilley

Janet, Ellen and Claire, Our thoughts are with you as you grieve the loss of Jay. We were so saddened to hear of his passing. Thinking of you all. Jayne, Emily and Amanda

~ Jayne Graham

Dear Janet, Please accept my condolences for your and your family's loss.

~ Lorna Froste

Janet and Family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you at this difficult time.

~ Janet Liefso

Jay was a one of a kind man. He was a wonderful husband, father, and friend. I had the honour of knowing Jay for most of my life. In many ways, Jay was like a father to me. He always treated me as a third daughter - always sharing his knowledge and trying to keep us safe. Jay taught me how to change a car tire, love hard and love unconditionally, and not take life too seriously. Jay will be missed so deeply by so many. To the Janet, Ellen, Claire, Mark, and Mitchell - I send my love to you all while you navigate this unimaginable loss.

~ Kirsten Kennedy

I am so sad to learn this news about Jay. Jay and I worked on various projects at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. He tackled everything with warmth, humour, energy, camaraderie, and cheerful team spirit. It was a pleasure to work with him. My heartfelt condolences to Jay’s family. He will be greatly missed.

~ Catherine Blake

Janet & Family We are so sad to hear this news. Jay brought fun & laughter always everywhere he went. I will remember his bright smile and warm hello. You will be so so missed, my friend, by so so many. ❤️

~ Gwen Devereaux

Janet, we were so saddened to hear of Jay’s passing. He was such a kind and gentle man and we always enjoyed talking with him while the girls practiced and played volleyball. Sending the family our deepest condolences.

~ Colleen and Mike McIlmoyle

Janet, Linda and I are sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Jay and I and our adventures, sailing out of Bayfield and listening to music come to mind. I will keep you, Ellen and Claire in my prayers.

~ David Kreitner

I had the pleasure of working with Jay at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. He and I worked many long days on the planning and implementation of the Southwestern Ontario Medical Education Network, but make no mistake, the success of SWOMEN was entirely because of Jay's tireless travels and interactions with community partners, hospital administration and school faculty. A few years later, Jay did it all over again in helping establish the Windsor Campus of Schulich Medicine. Jay was warm, friendly, encouraging and genuine, a great guy who'll be missed.

~ John Ruicci

Stewart and I send our sincere condolences to you Janet, Ellen and Claire. Jay was such an engaging person with a smile that was unforgettable. He left this world far too soon. We are thinking of you all at this very sad time.

~ Mary McIntyre

So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

~ Sandi Peterson

My sincere condolences to Jay's family. He was an inspiring and hard working colleague and the origins and development of Western's Windsor and SWOMEN regional medical educational programs were in very large part due to his untiring efforts. We owe him a great deal.

~ Jim Silcox

Janet, we're thinking of you and your family with the loss of Jay in your lives. May the many good memories you have of him help to comfort you in this difficult time.

~ Philip and Ruth Vandewalle

Jay was truly one of a kind, one of the best people I’ve ever had the privilege to know. Growing up next door, I was lucky to spend so many years around him, and I don’t think there was ever a time he didn’t make me laugh or smile. He had this rare combination of quick wit, quiet strength, and a heart that genuinely wanted the best for everyone around him. There was something about Jay that made you feel safe. Just being near him brought a sense of calm. Whether it was cheering us on at soccer practices, sharing family dinners, or Claire and I running back and forth between houses, he was always steady, supportive, and quietly watching over everyone with genuine care. He wasn’t loud about it, but his presence made all the difference. To Janet, Claire, Ellen, Mark, and Mitch, I am so deeply sorry. My heart breaks for you. Jay loved you all so deeply and it showed in everything he did. The way he looked at his family was unforgettable. That kind of love doesn’t disappear. It stays in the way you carry him with you, in the laughter he gave you, and in the way you love each other. He made such a lasting impact on my life and the lives of so many others. I’ll never forget his warmth, his humour, and the way he just got people. I feel so lucky to have known him. I love you all so much. 🤍 With love, Kristina Moore and Caleb Wiles

~ Kristina

We are so very sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. Hold your loving memories close yo your heart.

~ Ron & Carrol Tanner

I was just starting to get to know you and in that short period of time, I could tell you were a kind and loving father. No matter how much pain you were in, you came over to help Claire and Mitchell with their home renovations. I’m so very sorry for your suffering and may you now be at peace. You will be truly missed. God Bless 🙏

~ Marie Patience