John Ross Hardy

John’s Gift

In his 80th year, beloved husband, father, grandpa and great-grandpa, John Ross Hardy, peacefully passed away on April 28th, 2023. He was surrounded by his loving family as they said their final good-byes.

John was born to Helene Hardy (Cowan) and Ross Hardy (pre-deceased, 1943), on February 18th, 1943. His mother Helene remarried Irvin Botting and John, along with his brother Jerry and his sister Tina were raised in Bracebridge, Ontario.

John met the love of his life one summer evening at Lakeland Lodge in Bracebridge. He married Jeanne in 1964 and the young couple started a family while living in Copetown, Ontario. They moved their family back to Bracebridge where they would live for the next 27 years. John worked as a Forestry Technician for Ontario Hydro, for over 40 years. He was very proud of his professional career and grateful for the many wonderful friends he made along the way.

John was an entertaining musician and performed with bands in the 1960’s. He could light up a room with his songs and stories, and people were captivated by his energy and sense of humour. He loved playing his guitars and singing for family, friends or anyone that would listen or join in. John’s gift was bringing people together and celebrating life through laughter and music.

John was the life of the party, and he could make people laugh for hours. He left everyone loving him, even if you had just met him. His quick wit and fun-loving nature made others want to be around him. He truly had a passion for life and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

John had a unique relationship with each of his children and grandchildren. He was the ultimate Grandpa! His grandchildren grew up looking forward to special times with him, when he would make them laugh while teaching them life lessons. He was a constant support in their lives and very proud of every one of them.

John was a devoted and loving husband, and he was honoured to be at Jeanne’s side these past 58 years. John and Jeanne were the best of friends who shared their love of family, friendships, and fun.

John Ross Hardy is survived by his wife Jeanne (Hagar), brother Jerry Botting, sister Tina Johns (Botting), children, Cheryl (Joe), Elizabeth (Quentin, pre-deceased), and Ross (Jaclyn), grandchildren Corrie (Alex), Nicholas (Courtney), Racquel (Mike), Catharina (Faiyaz), Patrick, Nathan, and Isaac, and great-grandchildren Erik and Toby.

Donations in John’s name, can be made at one of the following charities: Veteran’s Transition Network or the Canadian Lung Association