Browse the obituary of residing in the province of Ontario for funeral details
STEELE, John Boyd
September 5, 1964 – January 23, 2025
Musician, friend, and leader. John passed away suddenly in his home on Thursday January 23, 2025 at the age of 60. He was the beloved son of the late J. Douglas and Betty (Perkins) Steele. Predeceased by his brothers Jeff (Jennifer Hodges) and Mark.
Music was always a major part of John’s life that brought him much joy. Playing genres such as Jazz, Western-swing, Dixieland, Bluegrass, Big-band, Country, and Highland and more, John performed often and shared his love of music. Pedal steel, electric piano, grand piano, banjo, guitar, harmonica, drums, violin, stand-up bass, clarinet, tuba, or saxophone…; the answer to “Can you play this instrument?” was always “Yes.” John also took on many other roles, including conductor, set-list master, equipment tech, sound man, tuner, lead singer, score-writer, and songwriter. He brought humour and kindness to every task. With music, he found himself surrounded by family and friends.
John was also a community leader, taking over operation of the McPhail and Perkins funeral home, previously operated by his grandfather, and successfully expanding and improving the operations for decades until he retired. In ‘retirement,’ he continued with music, playing regularly with numerous bands. He also volunteered with the local Renfrew food bank and supported many other causes including the Renfrew Hospital, the Renfrew Hospice, the local cemeteries, the Ottawa Mission, and the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa. He was a member of the Masonic Association and Renfrew Lodge #122. With his quiet generosity and commitment to his community, John had many good friends.
John’s final care has been entrusted to Zohr Family Funeral Home, Renfrew. A celebration of life is planned for March 22, 2025. Please join family and friends at the RCAF Wing, 164 Argyle Street in Renfrew from 1-4 PM. Interment will be arranged for the spring.
In memory of John, please consider sharing music with others in your life. A donation may be made in his name to one of the following organizations that John held dear: Renfrew and District Food Bank, The Ottawa Mission, Renfrew Victoria Hospital, Hospice Renfrew Inc., or the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa. Tributes, condolences and donations may be made online at www.zohrfuneralhome.com
January 23 2025
Death notice for the town of: Renfrew, Province: Ontario
death notice John Steele January 23 2025
obituaries notice John Steele January 23 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of John Steele January 23 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
