- Egan Funeral Home - https://www.eganfuneralhome.com -

John K. Devins

Posted By Egan Funeral Home On September 19, 2024 @ 3:21 pm In Bolton Area,Obituaries | 79 Comments

Devins web

It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of John K. Devins, born April 15th, 1949 to Sara and Ken Devins. After a lengthy illness, John died on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, surrounded by family.

John is survived by his wife Helen (nee Shaw).  His partner in love, life and business for over 53 years. He leaves behind his daughter, Margaret Devins Rahn and her husband Andrew Rahn. His son Steven Devins and his wife Linde Devins. John adored all 5 of his grandchildren: Mackenzie, Owen and Tyson Rahn; Emma and Nick Devins. He will be missed by his sister Judy (Don) Nelson and sisters in law Jeannette (Lloyd) Mason, Sylvia and Bill Jackson, Roberta and Clair Murray. John will be fondly remembered by many other family members and friends.

John was a successful business owner in the Town of Caledon for over 40 years.  At the age of 18, while still attending High School, John started his first business: Sandhill Water Supply. Later adding Sandhill Disposal & Recycling followed by the Dufferin Area Transfer Station.

During his lifetime John was a member of many organizations and held various executive positions.  Most notably President of the Ontario Waste Management Association, President of the Tecumseh Shrine Club and Treasurer of Salem United Church. He participated in many activities; Sandhill Pipe Band, hockey and baseball, (playing and coaching), snowmobiling, flying, horseshoes, golf and curling.

John will always be remembered for his devotion to his family and his strength and determination to carry on no matter where life might lead.

The family would like to thank the many caring PSW’s from Comfort Keepers who assisted in his care.  Thank you to the VON Adult Day program and the Alzheimer Society of Dufferin County.  Thank you to Dr. D. Tang-Wai of the UHN Network for your kindness and knowledge. Thank you to all the PSW’s at Amica in Georgetown on the Memory Care Floor. Thank you to Bethell Hospice for the care given to John in his last days.  Allowing him to die with dignity gave his family an immeasurable sense of peace. Thank you to Dr. Michael Gagnon for his assistance with John’s initial diagnosis in 2010 right through to the end.  No words can express how grateful we are. 

Please join the family in celebrating John’s life and legacy at Egan Funeral Home, 203 Queen Street South (Hwy. 50) Bolton (905-857-2213) on Friday, September 27th from 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday, September 28th at 2pm. Interment Providence Cemetery, Caledon East.

If you wish to make a donation in John’s memory, please consider:

Bethell Hospice Foundation

Shrine Hospitals for Children Canada

Alzheimer Society of Dufferin County

UHN (University Health Network) Foundation

Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com

 


Condolences for the family of “John K. Devins”

Condolence from Edna Wright on September 19th, 2024 3:56 pm

Dear Helen and family
So sorry to hear about John’s passing
It has been a long struggle for him
Remember all the Happy family times
Roy & Edna Wright.

Condolence from Gladys Fieldhouse on September 19th, 2024 5:50 pm

Sincere condolences Helen and family.

Condolence from The Duck family. on September 19th, 2024 5:52 pm

Oh what a big loss. The whole Duck family have many, many memories. We are so sorry for the family loss. Such great memories. Going to miss him. Donna and Frank and the whole family.

Condolence from Lorna Jenkinson on September 19th, 2024 6:20 pm

My condolences to you, Helen, and all the family on the loss of John. May all your memories of the the good times that you had with him, help you through this very difficult time.

Condolence from Joan Edwards on September 19th, 2024 7:02 pm

Dear Helen & family: My heart goes out to you in this difficult time. John came to me when he was first diagnosed to tell me. Cousins stick together!

Condolence from Glenda on September 19th, 2024 8:01 pm

Ken and I would like to extend our sincere sympathy to all the family. John was a very kind and caring gentleman with a great sense of humor.

Condolence from The Ruffs on September 19th, 2024 9:06 pm

Sincerest condolences to you and your family. So very sorry to hear this sad news. Thinking of you

Condolence from Lynda Kaake on September 20th, 2024 12:16 am

Dear Helen and family
My family and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. We have many fond memories of John especially during hockey season with the Bolton Oldtimers. Hang on to your memories and they will help you get through the tough times.
Time is a healer.

Condolence from Al Cunnington on September 20th, 2024 4:09 am

Our sincere condolences
May your memories help to ease the sorrow
RIP John

Condolence from Elaine & Joe Gray on September 20th, 2024 9:17 am

Helen, Margaret, Steven and all your families, you have our deepest sympathy for the loss of John. Our prayers and thoughts are with you as you journey through this tough time. Now he is peaceful in God’s hands. Keep him in your hearts and he will be with you forever.

Condolence from Marg Pilson on September 20th, 2024 9:29 am

Dear Helen and families.
So sorry to hear this news,
No more struggles,
The sadness will pass and remember the good times.
Take care of you.

Condolence from Albert E Moore on September 20th, 2024 9:56 am

I am so sorry Helen to hear of John’s passing. He was a great friend. He was also such a huge help to me during my 33 years with the Town of Caledon.

Condolence from Howard and Gloria McCandless on September 20th, 2024 10:47 am

Dear Helen and Family
Gloria and I would like to express our sincere condolences on the passing of John. He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by many.
Howard and Gloria

Condolence from Barbara Cunnington on September 20th, 2024 10:56 am

Dear Helen and all of your family;
Sending my deepest condolences in your loss. John was such an easy fellow to chat with. I will be keeping you all in my prayers through the days ahead. Treasure all those great memories as I know there are many.
Hugs, Barb

Condolence from Irene Wilson on September 20th, 2024 10:58 am

So sorry to hear of John’s passing. We went to Jr. Farmers camp together. Good memories. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Renie Wilson

Condolence from Dawn (Moffatt) Ironside on September 20th, 2024 1:52 pm

Helen, my heart is so sad at hearing of John’s struggles. As you know, I, along with a cast of thousands adored him. My years with the Town of Caledon in setting up and administering the blue box and white box recycling and other programs with John were so much fun! His ideas were always innovative and his sense of humor made every day a joy! That baseball hat, just a bit askew , and his impish grin is a picture I hold dear. Keep him tightly in your hearts, as will I. He was a treasure, and I am blessed to have been his colleague and also his friend. My deepest sympathy and love to your whole family.

Condolence from Dave and Linda Livingston on September 20th, 2024 2:08 pm

Helen, Margaret, Steven and families,

We have many happy memories of the good times shared with John playing Junior Farmer’s hockey with Bolton, baseball with Sandhill and eventually becoming a client when he started his own company. He was true to his word and just a great guy!

Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with all of you!

Sincerely,
Dave and Linda Livingston

Condolence from David Craig and Family on September 20th, 2024 3:56 pm

Helen, Margaret, Steven and families,

Our sincerest condolences to everyone!

There is lots of fond memories we all can share of John and his life’s involvement with sports, plowing matches, community events, family celebrations and just taking time to have a meaningful conversion!

Thinking of everyone and our thoughts are with you at this time!

David, Novelia, Lindsay and Delle

Condolence from Ed and Irene McDowell on September 20th, 2024 5:41 pm

Helen and family,

Our sincere condolences to everyone.

John was a great guy and his achievements proved his worth in life.

Ed and Irene McDowell

Condolence from Nancy Telfer on September 20th, 2024 5:42 pm

I remember John when we were both in elementary school and at Sandhill United Church. He was well liked by everyone and admired for his warm personality. That was so long ago but he made such a good impression on everyone that I will never forget him. I am so sorry for your loss!

Nancy Telfer (nee Lindsey)

Condolence from Greg & Helen Manion on September 20th, 2024 6:09 pm

Our deepest condolences to the Devin’s family

Condolence from Brian and Patti Snell on September 20th, 2024 6:25 pm

To Helen, Margaret and Andrew , Steven and Linde and families,
We are very sorry to learn of John’s passing. We extend our condolences at this difficult time. John was a hard worker and a successful businessman who always had time to chat, and always found the humour in any situation. John was a terrific contributor to the community within many organizations. Treasure the memories as you grieve with your loss.
Sincerely, Brian and Patti Snell, and family.

Condolence from Barry Johnson on September 20th, 2024 7:26 pm

My sincere condolences to Helen and family. John and Helen were both mentors to me in Shrine and clowning. John always found the fun and laughter in every moment. He will continue to be missed

Condolence from Cameron Lindsey on September 21st, 2024 7:03 am

Sorry to hear of John’s passing. I’ve known John since we were kids at Sandhill Church. John was a hard working honest gentleman. He was always involved in our community. He will be missed. Condolences to all of his family.

Condolence from The Morrison Family on September 21st, 2024 8:35 am

Helen and family. Sorry to hear of John’s passing

Condolence from Glen and Christina Early on September 21st, 2024 9:48 am

For Helen, Margaret, Steve and families, our sincere condolences on John’s passing from the Early family.
Seemingly neighbours forever, John was always there to answer the call for filling the old swimming pool or putting out a tractor fire in a nearby field with the Sandhill Water Supply truck.
A proud member of Salem Church and the choir, his usual greeting was “Howdy Neighbour”. And he always seemed to enjoy a chat “across the ditch” about community issues.
I never got tired of hearing about the skill of backing up over a curb without stalling the pickup truck.
John will be missed.

Glen and Christina Early

Condolence from Jane Chapman on September 21st, 2024 9:56 am

Dear Helen & family, We were sad to hear of John’s passing. He was a pillar of the community, very caring to everyone he met. Working for him was a pleasure with many fond memories and laughs. He is at peace now.
Jane & Don Chapman

Condolence from Bertha Holtby on September 21st, 2024 5:06 pm

Dear Helen, Margaret, Steven & families,

Please know that my loving thoughts are with all of you at this time. Thank you Helen for visiting me here in Sudbury……..I will always remember the happy times that you, John & I spent together.

Bertha Holtby

Condolence from Scott & Diane Morrison on September 21st, 2024 9:56 pm

Helen, Margaret & Andrew, Steven & Linde and families

John was a wonderful friend and neighbour and he will be deeply missed within the community.
Working with John in the early days of the business gave me the opportunity to really appreciate how big his heart was.
He was so very proud of his family and beautiful grandchildren.
May the wonderful memories that you have shared as a family help to bring healing during this sad time.

Sincerely,
Scott & Diane Morrison

Condolence from Warren Jack on September 22nd, 2024 10:43 am

Helen, Steven, Linde and families:
We offer our sincere condolences! A lasting friendship was formed through the waste business. Our trips to the OWMA office, where John’s logical approach to most subjects, will long be remembered. May he rest in peace.
Warren & Linda Jack

Condolence from Alan and Alice Lyons on September 22nd, 2024 12:18 pm

Helen, Margret, Steven and families.
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband and father. I’ve known John since high school and played Junior Farmer hockey against him. He was always a tough competitor and a great friend and community builder. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Sincerely,
Alan and Alice Lyons

Condolence from Phyllis Moffatt on September 22nd, 2024 1:49 pm

So sorry to hear of your loss Helen. Extend my condolences to your family Phyllis Moffatt(Terry) Norval On

Condolence from Paul & Betty Johnston on September 22nd, 2024 2:03 pm

Helen, Margaret, Steven and families
Our sincere condolences on the passing of John. He contributed a lot to his community and will be truly missed. Treasure his memories .

Condolence from Candace Rahn on September 22nd, 2024 2:19 pm

Darryl and I want you to know that we are feeling sad for you today. It was interesting to read about your dad’s major successes as a multi-business owner and to start at age 18…while still in school? That’s incredible! He obviously loved his whole family and raised some wonderful children. And he leaves a strong tradition of athletic excellence as well. We hope that as time progresses his absence will sting a little bit less and you will be able to remember him with a swelled heart and fond connection. We are with you in your sorrow.

Condolence from Albert & Kathy Clarkson on September 22nd, 2024 4:20 pm

Sincere condolences to Helen and the Devin families
GOD BLESS
REST IN PEACE JOHN

Condolence from John Wilson on September 22nd, 2024 5:20 pm

I am so sorry to hear of the news of John’s passing. He always had a friendly smile and a word for me, at any of the family get-togethers we were at. I admired his charitable work, as well as his calm, steadfast demeanor, and subtle sense of humour. I offer my sincere condolences to Helen, Margaret, Steven, and family for your loss…

DEVINS, JOHN at 2016 SHAW REUNION..

Condolence from Howard and Sharon Venning on September 22nd, 2024 6:56 pm

Dear Helen and family
Our condolences to all at this difficult time. Knowing John was our pleasure. He was so easy going and always had time to talk. Keep his memories close and he will be with you always. Our sincere condolences. RIP John

Condolence from John & Verna Traynor on September 22nd, 2024 9:35 pm

Our sincere condolences to the Helen and family

Condolence from Darryl Bailey on September 22nd, 2024 9:53 pm

Steven and family,

Deepest condolences on the passing of your father. He will always be remembered fondly as a cherished member of the community.

Condolence from Mary Killeen on September 23rd, 2024 7:08 am

Helen , Margaret, Steven and families
John was a good family friend, neighbor and community man. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at the difficult time
Fintan and Mary Killeen

Condolence from MurrayStewart on September 23rd, 2024 9:39 am

Dear Helen and Family
Our sincere condolences. May John rest in peace and may your memories of your life and successes together be of real support going forward.

The Murray Stewart Family

Condolence from Bill and Elaine Johnston on September 23rd, 2024 3:57 pm

Helen and family Bill and I were sad to hear of John’s passing.

Condolence from Bruce Heaps on September 23rd, 2024 5:28 pm

Sorry to hear about your loss I always enjoyed talking to John always a helpful tip always a smile always good advice again to all of his family so sorry for your loss he was one of the good guys .

Condolence from Shirley Long on September 23rd, 2024 5:37 pm

Sorry to hear of John’s passing. He loved to watch his grandkids compete in sports. He also passed his work ethics on to them. Keep your great memories close. Sincerely Murray and Shirley Long

Condolence from fred julian on September 23rd, 2024 6:40 pm

Helen , Margaret , Steven & famalies so sorry to hear of John’s passing . please accept our condolences. Agnes & Fred Julian

Condolence from Nancy Moffatt on September 23rd, 2024 7:35 pm

To the Devins family our sincere condolences. our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Nancy Moffatt & family

Condolence from Arlene Markle on September 23rd, 2024 8:18 pm

Helen & family, Judy & family

Our sympathy to all of you at this difficult time. We have many fond memories of John.
May he rest in peace. Hopefully time will help you through your sorrow with each new tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Peter & Arlene

Condolence from Bill & Cindy on September 24th, 2024 8:33 am

Dear Helen, Margaret, Steven and your families,
So sorry to hear of John’s passing…his happy-go-lucky personality and big smile would light up a room !
We all share the great times had at Silent Valley Park. Treasure your memories and special moments at this sad and difficult time.
Love & Prayers and our Sincere Sympathy
Bill & Cindy Fines

Condolence from Nancy Barton on September 24th, 2024 10:59 am

Dear Helen and family,
Thinking of you and so
very sorry to hear of John,s passing.
Our sincere condolences to you at this sad time
and think fondly of past times.

Nancy Barton & family.

Condolence from Betty Romenick-McIntosh on September 24th, 2024 12:43 pm

Dear Helen:
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved John. You gave great support to Valley Chapter #297 Order of the Eastern Star when you were both able to attend. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this sad time. Memories are precious and I know that you have many to remember him by. Always In Star Love, Betty Romennick-McIntosh, W.M. Valley Chapter.

Condolence from Marolyn Morrison on September 25th, 2024 12:46 am

Helen, Margaret and Steven I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a wonderful gentleman and a very successful businessman.

Please accept my most sincere condolences to you and your whole family.

Condolence from Kevin Jennings on September 25th, 2024 1:27 pm

Condolences to family, friends and many acquaintances affected by Johns’s passing. Peace.

Condolence from Brent, Wendy and Kelly on September 25th, 2024 4:38 pm

Helen and Family,

So sorry to hear of John’s passing. We have good memories of the old Sandhill days and often have a good chuckle as we remember them. John had a huge heart and will be missed.

Our thoughts are with you all.

Brent, Wendy and Kelly Rowland

Condolence from Mike, Dawn & Family on September 25th, 2024 5:09 pm

Deepest condolences to the Devins families during this time. Extended hugs to Steve, Linde, Emma & Nick.

Condolence from Dori Ebel on September 25th, 2024 5:29 pm

My sincere condolences to you Helen and all your family.
May John now rest in Peace. God bless you all.

Condolence from David and Susan Armstrong on September 26th, 2024 9:44 am

Helen and Family
Our sincere condolences to you and all your family. May John now rest in Peace. We all have some great memories to remember John by as a friend, fishing buddy, card player, Shriner, Shrine Clown and business associate.

Condolence from Audrey Sant on September 26th, 2024 12:58 pm

Helen and Judy

My sincere condolences to your entire family
May John’s achievements, and good memories give you
strength to cope with your loss

Audrey Sant

Condolence from Glenda richardson on September 26th, 2024 2:51 pm

Our deepest condolences to you Helen and family. John was a great man and always good for a visit.
Remember all the good times and smile.

Ken and Glenda

Condolence from Paul on September 26th, 2024 4:18 pm

Short as it was, it was a pleasure interacting with John over the last few years. How he enjoyed dancing with the RCP’s at Amica always made me smile. Condolences to his family and friends.

Rest in peace John

Condolence from John and Joanne Davis on September 26th, 2024 5:25 pm

We were saddened to hear of the passing of John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Condolence from Bruce and Suzanne Ackroyd on September 26th, 2024 7:41 pm

Our sincere condolences to Helen and family. There are so many memories to cherish.

Condolence from Bruce and Suzanne Ackroyd on September 26th, 2024 7:45 pm

Our sincere condolences to Helen and family. Many memories to cherish

Condolence from John Jacobs on September 26th, 2024 10:07 pm

John was a fair and generous employer. I enjoyed working at Sandhill Disposal for 14 years.
I’m sure he will be greatly missed and remembered for years to come.
My Condolences to his family

Condolence from THE ROY FAMILY on September 26th, 2024 10:20 pm

May peace, friends , family and memories help you through this difficult time. Our condolences to all.

Condolence from Sheila Shields on September 26th, 2024 10:45 pm

Helen, Margaret and Steven. Sending my condolences to you and your families. Dwell on all the happy memories of the past. Sincerely, Sheila

Condolence from Cheryl Robb on September 27th, 2024 12:53 am

So sorry to hear of the passing of John. He always had a smile and a kind word. Condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.

Condolence from Jack & Debbie Smith on September 27th, 2024 10:08 am

Helen and family, we send our sincere condolences to you all.
John will always be remembered fondly.

Condolence from Bob Luffman on September 27th, 2024 10:52 am

We were sorry to hear of John’s passing. I met John and Helen while playing ball for the Caledon East Merchants. John made me feel welcome on the team and we became friends.
Years went by and we became neighbours in Mono and caught up quickly on the current events in Caledon East.
Bob and Wendy Luffman

Condolence from Ken Sweeney and family on September 27th, 2024 1:55 pm

Very sorry to hear the news about John. I always enjoyed our time together and his great sense of humour. Condolences to the entire Devins clan!

Condolence from Steve MacDougall on September 27th, 2024 2:38 pm

Our condolences on the loss of a wonderful husband, Father and Grandfather. John was truly one of a kind and inspirational to us all. A True friend and business associate. We are thankful to have known him.
Thinking of you all.
Mel, Lori, Debbie and Rob, Christine and Steve and our family at Runnalls.

Condolence from Chris on September 27th, 2024 5:08 pm

Our deepest condolences to your family. He will always be in your thoughts and forever in your spirits. Take care and be there for each other. Chris & Nicole.

Condolence from Jennifer Hannan on September 27th, 2024 9:22 pm

Our heartfelt condolences to your family during this difficult time. Sending strength and peace in the days ahead.

Jennifer, Shawn, Kendra, Rachel Hannan

Condolence from Nathan Hiller on September 28th, 2024 7:56 am

Helen, Margaret, Steven and Family
I have many good memories of John, snowmobiling around Sandhill and Bear Lake, playing Euchre at the Orange Lodge, having a coffee at Cook’s and many many more. When I think of John I remember his good nature, his sense of humour and in numerous ways, his service to the community, both socially and in business. John will be sadly missed.

Sandhill

Condolence from David Bolzon on September 28th, 2024 12:31 pm

Dear Helen, Margaret and Steven.

My deepest condolences to you and your families. John was a great guy !
I truly enjoyed his great sense of humor and friendliness.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have known him.

Sincerely,
David Bolzon

Condolence from Rosanna Porretta on September 30th, 2024 12:30 pm

So sorry for your loss Helen, from all of us at Bolton Family Dental Centre. You’re in our prayers

Condolence from George and Lynda Berney on September 30th, 2024 4:34 pm

Our deepest condolences to your family at the loss of John. He will be missed and I will miss his friendly presence at lodge. John’s sense of humour and sage advise was always welcome. You are in our prayers.

George and Lynda BERNEY

Condolence from Norm and Ingrid Dodwell on October 1st, 2024 6:50 pm

Dear Helen and family.

We are very sorry to learn of John’s passing. He was a good employer. I enjoyed working with and for him at Sandhill.
With our deepest condolences.

Norm and Ingrid Dodwell

Condolence from Marg Anquetil on November 10th, 2024 1:59 pm

So sorry to hear of John’s passing. It was a pleasure to get to know and work with you both! My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Condolence from Paul Kuznecov on June 18th, 2025 9:34 am

My deepest condolences to the Devins family. I worked closely with John for a brief time while working at the Region Peel and always admired his knowledge and insight. His sense of humor and quick wit always made conversations with John so much fun.

Article printed from Egan Funeral Home: https://www.eganfuneralhome.com

URL to article: https://www.eganfuneralhome.com/john-k-devins/

Copyright © 2010 Egan Funeral Home. All rights reserved.