On Saturday, August 2, 2025, John “Ġanni” Bonnici at the age of 85 years, peacefully commended his soul to God, at Bethell Hospice, Inglewood. Beloved husband for 51 years, of Emmanuela Bonnici. Loving father of Josette Bonnici, and Pauline Vollmerhaus (Rainer). Cherished Nannu of Serenity and Jasper. Dear brother of Maria Sant (deceased), Teresa (deceased), Emanuel (deceased), Carmen Borg (John deceased), Josephine Schembri (deceased), Joseph (deceased), and Paul (Mary deceased).
At the age of 15, John began working as a stone mason in his hometown of Mosta, Malta. Two years later, in 1957, John began his novitiate as a Jesuit Brother and spent the next several years as stonemason and sculptor building Mount St Joseph in Malta. In 1967, his Brotherly life of service, prayer and community took him to Bikfaiya, Lebanon where he cared for the Residence and learned both French and Arabic. Between 1968 and 1971, John lived and worked in Cairo, Egypt (College de la Sainte Famille) as mechanic and carpenter. Understanding that his path in life was changing, John left the Jesuits in 1971. He married Emmanuela Sammut in 1974 and emigrated to Canada where his two daughters were born. As a dedicated provider for his family, John’s strong work ethic and craftsmanship continued as he thrived as a cabinetmaker and custom woodworker (Ashford Interiors) in the greater Toronto area until he retired.
John will always be remembered as being a good provider, a helping hand to his family and friends and as a craftsman in both wood and stone.
The family will receive their friends at the Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen St. S. (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213) on Thursday evening from 5 – 7 o’clock. Funeral Mass will be held in Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, 60 Allan Drive, Bolton on Friday morning, August 8 at 11 o’clock. Interment Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bolton. Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
For those who wish, donations may be made in John’s memory to Bethell Hospice where his last 24 hours were made comfortable (foundation.bethellhospice.org) or to the Alzheimer Society (alzheimer.ca) where they continue to search for the cure to a tragic disease.
Darlene Avram
Dear Bonnici Family,
Our Deepest Condolences to all of you at this very sad time. John was a very sweet man and we enjoyed having conversations with him at Coffee Time on numerous occasions!
We send hugs to all… Emma, Josette and Pauline and all the Family
Carmen M. Galea
Sincere condolences to Emmanuela & her family. John (Ganni) lived his life faithfully and was a true example of quiet strength, humility, and kindness. Although he was a man of few words, he showed his love through his warm smile and peaceful presence. He will be greatly missed. I keep you in my prayers at this difficult time. May he rest in peace
Carol Good
Dear Emma and family
We offer our condolences to the whole family during this sad time. John will be missed deeply. May your memories provide many reminders of love and laughter.
sending love and hugs,
Carol and Doug
Joseph and Anne Sammut
Condolences to my sister Emmanuela and her family and John’s family. John was a faithful husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather. A very hard working man who will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Kevin R Benson
John was my mentor.
In the 7 years I trained under him I learned to hone my creativity.
His abilities still humble me.
With each project I complete I give thanks to him for taking that time to pass along his knowledge.
His legacy in wood will continue to be taught every chance I get.
I think of you John every time I step into the shop.
Tina Liscio and Chris Niras
Our deepest sympathies to Emma, Pauline and Josette and Family.
Rest in Peace
Diana Ramsay
Please accept my condolences. Pauline, I will always remember your father’s smile and kindness.
Fr. Bob Glynn
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of John. He was a very good man, who was always helpful at St John’s on the Gore Rd. Because of the confusion of moving to another parish, I missed this, I am Sorry. Eternal Rest Grant Upon Him O Lord. I will remember John in my prayers!! God Bless and Keep you and your family. Fr. Bob Glynn