John Charles Birss MD

John Charles Birss MD August 8, 1946 to May 14, 2026 of Walker’s Point Ontario passed peacefully in his 80th year at Andy’s House Hospice.

He is predeceased by his parents Jennie Isobel King and Ronald James Birss of Brampton, brother Robert William Birss of Spruce Grove Alberta and his sister-in-law Mary Ann Birss of Edmonton. Survived by his brother Ronald “Peter” Birss (Mary Ann-d, Laureen Hrushka) and dearest uncle of Karen Birss (Don Lee), Kevin Birss (Melissa) and Ronny Birss and several great nieces and nephews. Cherished, lifelong friend of Hawley Johnston, Godfather of James Crosby and “Uncle Jake” to the Crosby boys.

John attended Central Public School, Brampton HS, University of Western University 1973. John was a trusted family physician at Cambridge ON Grandview Medical Centre from 1975-2016. Ontario Pioneer Boys Camp helped shape his future as a camper, LIT and Counsellor. After completing his MD he went back as a Sr. Counsellor 1974-1983 to help create similar experiences for other youth. A life changing experience was time in Brazil with his parents in 1977 where his father was an engineer for Brascan. John had a passion for canoeing, wintering in Florida, spending time with family and friends and in recent years enjoyed worshiping with new friends at the Bala and Port Carling United Churches. John was a devoted son, caring for his parents as they aged, and in particular for his beloved mother on a daily basis whilst working until she passed in her 104th year! In 2017 he retired to his cherished cottage “Myreside” thus fulfilling two childhood dreams: becoming a doctor and living in Muskoka permanently.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Bala and/or Port Carling United Church, Hospice Muskoka or Ontario Pioneer Camp.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Ward Funeral Home – Brampton Chapel, 52 Main Street South on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., burial to follow at Brampton Cemetery, 10 Wilson Avenue. Friends are welcome to join the family for a reception at the Alderlea 40 Elizabeth Street South, Brampton.