John Allen Thomson

January 6, 1935 - September 30, 2025

Passed away peacefully in his 90th year at his home in Port Rowan, Ontario where he lived with his wife of 22 years, Edith (Edie) nee Robinson.

John was born in Toronto, Ontario to the late Gordon and Phyllis Thomson and was predeceased by his siblings Gordon (and his late wife Barbara), William (Flo), Marie (her late husband John Cameron), Earl (his late wife Elizabeth), Phyllis (her late husband Frank Baumann), Robert, his stepson Alan Love and his stepdaughter Elaine Osbaldeston.

He is survived by his loving wife Edie, his children Alan (Sylvia), Heather and Tracy, his grandchildren Coral, Jasma, Samantha, Megan, Matt (Chelsea) of Edmonton, and Micheal (Michelle) of Ottawa, his great grandchildren Devin, Jaeda, Astrid, Asher, Mason and Makayla, his brother Robert Norton (Anne) and many nieces and nephews.

Growing up in the Parkdale area of Toronto, John met Ron Nixon and Fred Markham by chance while riding their motorcycles in 1953. What began as friends riding together soon grew into the founding of the Black Diamond Riders motorcycle club where John proudly served as Secretary/Treasurer alongside the first club President Ron Nixon. John was known throughout the city for his fearlessness while riding his 1953 BSA 650 Golden Flash, a motorcycle that became as much a part of his identity as his bold and adventurous spirit. He often said that his days with the BDRs were among the best days of his life, filled with brotherhood and freedom.

John loved the outdoors and found peace while deer hunting on Manitoulin Island, a tradition he began more than 60 years ago and never once missed. He was a skilled tool and die maker, and later in life he transitioned into real estate and opened his own office in Bolton. It was there that he met Ivan, his long time friend who shared his passion for hunting.

He enjoyed spending time with his wife Edie wintering in Arizona, where he became quite an accomplished pickleball player! Together, they later cherished many vacations on cruise ships.

His life was a testament to the power of living life to the fullest, and he truly embodied the spirit of dying young as late as possible. His woodworking shop was his sanctuary where he crafted beautiful pieces that reflected his love for life and his desire to make a meaningful impact on those around him. From simple step stools to a one of a kind Christmas manger, intricate signs, bookcases, countless deacon’s benches and rocking horses, each piece was a labour of love that brought joy to all who received them. His generosity knew no bounds, and he would often create pieces for friends and family without expecting anything in return. The tears of gratitude in the eyes of those who received his gifts were reward enough for him.

His legacy will continue in the stories, laughter and memories he shared with those closest to him. His family will take comfort knowing that he lived his life fully, on his own terms. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Honouring John’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, October 18th at Ward’s Funeral Home located at 2035 Weston Rd. Toronto (south of the 401) from 12:00 til 4:00 pm.