It is with breaking hearts that we announce the passing of John McTavish at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital because of COVID-19. Cherished husband of Laurie Pfaff for 36 years. Loving father to Scarlett and “dog-father” to Clementine. Dear brother of Sue Rueckwald (Blaine), twin Bill McTavish (Fran) and Bob McTavish (Jan). Beloved uncle to Trevor, Kate, Kim, Rebecca, Cindy, Martha and their families.
John graduated from Sir Adam Beck Collegiate Institute in London Ontario. He spent over three decades in Collingwood and Orillia during which he enjoyed photographing the beauty and birds of Muskoka. A kind, generous and gentle man with a twinkle in his eye, John was Santa to thousands of children. He will be missed by so many. Be safe, be kind to each other, take a walk in the woods or by a pond and remember him. A visitation will be held at the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street E. Orillia on Saturday, October 24th from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
As the COVID-19 restrictions/mandates continue to evolve, we are placing health and safety of our families, staff and community at our highest priority. In order to keep everyone as safe as possible, we kindly ask that all guests wear a mask and practice physical distancing. Please refrain from shaking hands or having direct contact with each other if not in the same household or their established 10-person social circle. When coming for a service, guests are asked to pay their respects to the deceased and acknowledge the family from a safe distance. Funeral Services will be limited to 30% capacity.