Obituary of John Blair Watkins

Watkins, John Blair John passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024 at Mariposa House Hospice, Orillia, in his 91st year. Loving husband of 66 years to Jean, loving father to Kelly Gard nee Watkins (Brian) and Kenneth Watkins, loving grandfather to Wesley and Andrew Gard and Nathan Watkins. John will be greatly missed by his family, his friends and the community. Over the past 70 years John was very involved in and held a number of executive positions within numerous community organizations including: • Member and President of the Orillia Shrine Club • 51-year member of the Masonic Order • Held the distinction of attaining the 32nd degree within the Scottish Rite • Member of the Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital Board for 9 years and held the position of Chair for the last 2 • Member of the Champlain Seniors Club • Member of the Probus Club • Member and President of the Twin Lakes Conservation Club • Member and President of the Orillia Fish and Game Club • Member and President of the Couchiching Point Rate Payers Association • Member of the Barrie Scuba Diving Club • District Commissioner of the Barrie Boy Scouts The family wishes to thank staff from the following organizations for their wonderful care and support, Mariposa House Hospice, Bayshore Health Care and Personal Support Care Partners. Cremation has taken place, and no services will be held. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to Children's Shrine Hospital (Montreal) or the charity of their choice through the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street East, Orillia (705) 327 0221 . Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca