Obituary of John Andrew Rumerfield
John Andrew Rumerfield
May 27, 1948- June 8, 2024
“We are all stories in the end, remembered by the adventures we had, the achievements we made and the people we loved. So make sure your story is a good one.” – Nishan Panwar
With his wife by his side, John left the suffering of this life on Saturday June 8, 2024 at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry. John faced his disease (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) with eternal optimism, courage and determination. He ensured he got the most out of life to his very last breath.
Born on May 27, 1948 to Elsie Rumerfield (nee Jones) he was the youngest of three boys (Albert, predeceased, and David). John was driven to work from a very young age, spending the majority of his working life with the City of Orillia Parks and Recreation Department (30 years). He was best known for the flowers that were in city flower beds, holding the position of Head Gardener for his last 15 years with the City. He was a common sight in Couchiching Beach Park where for many years he supervised summer staff. John was also the owner and operator of Jar-Mar Enterprises, a landscaping and property maintenance company that he ran for 30 + years in the City of Orillia and surrounding area.
John leaves behind his soulmate and best friend, his wife of 26 years, Michelle Brotherton. He was the proud father of Donna (Bradley) Cole and grandfather to Jayden Cole.
John will be deeply missed by his 5 fur babies and by his “granny” Christel Belwan.
John got the travel bug when he was gifted with a birthday trip from Toronto to Ottawa for his 50th birthday. Michelle and John never looked back, taking numerous vacations to the Caribbean, Europe, Israel and Jordan, and across Canada and the US.
John was a man of integrity who said it like it was, was authentic, and had a deep compassion for the vulnerable. Under his seemingly gruff exterior was a man who loved fiercely, was deeply loyal and generous to a fault.
A celebration of John’s life will take place on Saturday June 22, 2024 at 1 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Church, Bowmanville (178 Church St. Bowmanville). There will be visitation for 2 hours preceding the service from 11-1. Interment will take place following the service at Bethesda Cemetery, with a reception to follow. Arrangements have been entrusted to Jardine Funeral Home, Fenelon Falls.
Memorial donations to St. Paul's United Church, Bowmanville (General Fund) or Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry.
