October 8th, 1942 – April 3rd, 2025
On April 3rd, 2025, John Douglas Noyes died a gentle death in Sheila’s arms, at home, with family by his side. He had applied for Medical Assistance in Dying but was unable to pass the competency test as his cancer spread very quickly.
John was born in Hamilton, Ontario to William and Mary Noyes. He moved to Red Lake, Ontario to begin a long career in education, and happened to meet a lovely redhead. John and Sheila were married in 1967.
John had a long career as an educator with the Lakehead Board of Education. He was instrumental in the inclusion of students with special needs, receiving a Queen’s Jubilee medal for these efforts. After retiring, he and Sheila shared their wisdom with newer teachers through the Faculty of Education at Lakehead University. He was president of the board of directors of the Lakehead Regional Family Centre.
John’s faith was important to him; he concluded that it was not what he believed that mattered but how he lived his life. John served on the Board of Westminster United Church and sang in the choir.
John was predeceased by his parents, his niece Jennifer Ihssen, his mother and father-in-law John and Audrey Dunn, his sister-in-law Jackie Richardson, and his sister Carol Bobyk. He is survived by his wife Sheila, his sons Greg (Kristine), Jeff, and Derek (Christina), and grandchildren Eliza, Cecily, Emilia, and Gavin. He is also survived by his sister Bev Vano, brothers Ted and Rob, and nieces and nephews.
Our family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Bayshore, especially Phyllicia, Kyle, and Jennifer, for making dad’s last days as comfortable as possible.
We are deeply grateful to Jim Hyder, a close friend of John’s who was a steady presence and comfort to John and who guided the family through the path of sorrow.
Recognizing the extraordinary father they had in John, his sons surprised him with a yellow TR3 for his 80th birthday.
John was a unique person, intelligent, wise, compassionate and oh so fair. He was loved immeasurably by this family.
A memorial service will be held at Westminster United Church on Monday, April 21st, 2025, at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
