John David Truax Holding passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 at the age of 91, at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital in Vaughan, Ontario, following a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
John was a senior partner with Borden Ladner Gervais LLP and its predecessor, Toronto law firm Borden & Elliot, where he specialized in product liability and aviation law. He retired in December 2002, after 43 years with the firm. He was a member of the Canadian Bar Association, The Advocates’ Society, the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Lawyer-Pilots Bar Association, and was the author of three books on aviation law.
Following his retirement, John became a member of the mediation and arbitration panels of ADR Chambers, and later served on the Ontario Review Board. He was an active member of Harcourt Lodge 581 for over 50 years, and later joined True Blue Lodge in Bolton. He was also an avid golfer and a talented baritone.
John will be greatly missed by his daughters Jennifer (Holding) Smith and Mary Holding, his grandchildren Iain Smith and Noah Labelle-Holding, his son-in-law Adam Smith, his nieces and nephews, and his many friends and colleagues. Predeceased by his beloved wife Judy (Tom) Holding, his parents William and Gladys (Truax) Holding, his brother Bill Holding, and his sister Virginia (Holding) Kay.
The family will receive their friends at the Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy 50), Bolton (905-857-2213) on Saturday morning, October 25th from 10 o’clock until time of Masonic Lodge service at 11 o’clock, immediately following will be a memorial service.
Reception to follow at the funeral home.
Al Cunnington
I had the privilege of travelling to numerous Lodges with John when were both Senior Warden s
We had some of the most interesting conversations that l will always cherish
Rest in Peace Brother
Lianne Britnell
My sincere condolences, Jennifer, Mary and family.
I have been thinking of your parents since hearing of John’s passing. They were both so lovey. I always enjoyed visiting with them while we were at the lake.
Jo-Anne Holway
My condolences Jennifer and Mary and family. I have many great memories of both you Dad and Mom. They will be missed.
Bill Kinnear
I offer my condolences to John’s family. Know that through his patience and knowledge, John was always helping Harcourt brethren be their best. In their prime, John and his brother Bill were truly influential members of Harcourt Lodge. They led the way to help make Harcourt the vibrant Lodge it is today, and the Holding energy continues its influence through John’s nephews, Bill and David.
Judy Bell
Sending my deepest condolences to Jennifer, Mary and the entire family
May your wonderful memories help to bring you some comfort
Judy Bell
Greenpoint Lake of Bays
David Bacque
My deepest condolences to the family. I enjoyed many meetings in Harcourt Lodge with John and I appreciated his guidance and leadership.
Bob Traves
John was one of my mentors at Borden & Elliott (and then BLG). So well respected as an advocate. I have many fond memories working with John. My sincere condolences to the Holding Family. Bob and Marla Traves