With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of John Lawrence Hunter of Orillia, ON, on Wednesday January 14th, 2026 at the age of 80. Born on February 20th, 1945, John was the son of the late Lawrence and Evelyn (Waugh) Hunter of Toronto, ON. Brother to his late sister, Jean McLean Hunter, and husband to his late, first wife Wendy (Clements). John obtained a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario. John became a founding partner and Vice President of Leslie Danhart LTD until retirement. John was a lover of the Golden Retriever breed and was the master to many whom he loved dearly. John’s passions in life included the Toronto Blue Jays, Coca Cola, wintering in Florida, squash, cribbage, windsurfing and dining on steak and shrimp. He enjoyed his retirement years at Bass Lake where he spent many hours barbecuing and towing kids on tubes, skis and wakeboards. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching the art of water skiing to many generations of friends and family. John is survived by his partner of 30 years, Mary Ann Clarke (Mills) and her children Andrew (Bidita), April (Shane), Susan (Miguel), Robynn, and Carolyn (Brendon). John was BUMPA to 15 grandchildren who found him endlessly intriguing and fascinating. We will miss John’s booming voice, delicious prime rib, Yellow Tail and valuable advice. Guests will be received at Carson Funeral Home – L. Doolittle Chapel, 54 Coldwater St. E., in Orillia (705) 326-3595 on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 12 pm to 3 pm for a Celebration of life drop in reception. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Mariposa House Hospice or Helping Hands of Orillia and are appreciated. A sincere thank you to the wonderful staff and volunteers at Mariposa House Hospice.
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Angelo Sperduti
Feb 1, 2026Dear Mary Ann and Family. Cathy and I were very saddened to hear that John had passed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, John and your Family. Angelo and Cathy Sperduti, Palgrave, Ontario
Elaine Weber
Jan 23, 2026Dear Mary Ann and Family, My sincere condolences at the passing of John, Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen and unheard but always there, and always loved. Love and prayers from your friend Elaine
Bob Lane
Jan 21, 2026Dear Mary Ann and family: Please accept my most sincere condolences during this difficult time. John and I met in high school when we were 15 .But my earliest and most vivid teen-age memory of him was when we were 16 years when he pulled into my driveway in his red MG convertible . How could I forget that? From there our friendship grew into our adult years wherein we shared wonderful memories, cottage stories and up-dates plus our love for the Toronto Blue Jays! May the love and support you have for each other bring you comfort and peace! Bob
Cathy & Mario Formica
Jan 19, 2026Susan, Miguel & the whole family, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad and Bumpa. So many family memories to treasure over the years.
Kathy Filipchuk
Jan 19, 2026Mary Ann Thinking of you . My sincere condolences to you and your family. I will never forget John as always the good neighbour who always gave a helpful hand when needed. He was a solid rock of the Bards Beach.community. I remember inviting you over and John with his half smile/grin reminding me about his favourite Yellow Tail. Thank you John for being a special friend.
Judy Laythorpe
Jan 18, 2026Mary Ann and family, my deepest condolences at your loss. May your memories bring you peace and comfort. Trust God to hold you in the palm of his hand as you journey forward.