John Allan Kirkland

John Allan Kirkland

Peacefully, surrounded by family, John Kirkland passed away on December 7, 2025 at the age of 96.

Predeceased by his wife Mary and brothers Stuart and Robert.  He leaves behind his children Michael (Tracey), Ritchard (Lynn), Marlene (Ron) and Maureen. Also survived by 12 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

John was born in Windsor, but moved to the Kingsville and Blenheim areas after the death of his father. As a teenager he moved to Dutton where his family had deep roots. This is also where he met the girl who he would marry.

Following highschool John was accepted into the Electrical Engineering program at Western. Due to financial constraints, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy continuing his electronics education. His navy career took him around the world, beginning with serving during the Korean conflict. He travelled through the Northwest Passage and the Panama Canal on board the HMCS Labrador, the first ship to circumnavigate the North American continent. He ended his navy years in Halifax, where his four children were born, as Petty Officer 1st Class on the HMCS Haida.

After he left the armed forces, he continued his electronics career working on aircraft flight simulators ln Nova Scotia and television broadcast equipment and mainframe computers in Quebec. Eventually he returned to Ontario, settling in London where he opened a Radio Shack store.

After retiring, John and his wife joined the Elgin Hiking Trail Club and hiked many local trails, including the Bruce Trail from end to end.

John was very creative and musical, with woodworking and the harmonica among his interests. After the death of his wife, John moved to Parkwood Institute, Western Counties Wing, where he was an active member of the musical therapy and crafting programs.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Arn Funeral Home in Dutton on Saturday December 13 from 12 to 2 pm.

A private internment at Fairview Cemetery, Dutton will follow.

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