Former Citizen of the Year John McGrinder passes away
Barbara A. Martindale- For What It's Worth August 13, 2013
One of Caledonia’s most notable residents, John McGrinder, has passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 81 years old.
“John was a terrific person; we all thought well of him,” said Barbara Martindale, executive director of the Caledonia Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“He and his wife, Anne, were our Santa and Mrs. Claus for Light Up Night for many years, even back when we were having Light Up Night at the Train Station,” said Martindale.
John served with the Hamilton police for 35 years, retiring in 1991. He not only volunteered his time for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Days, but also recruited other police officers to donate their time to the annual fundraiser as well.
He was an active member of the Caledonia Knights of Columbus for many years.
In 1996, John was awarded the Caledonia Citizen of the Year Award.
“He was a wonderful person; I always liked John. He would stop by (the Chamber office) and chat about things before he got ill,” said Martindale.
“Even after he became ill, he was still our Santa Claus. He loved that job,” she added.
John passed on Friday, August 10 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton.
He is survived by his wife, Anne, and children John, Kathy Noon (Ed), Tim (Sandi), Maureen Chenier (Mike) and Michael; he also leaves behind several grandchildren, great grandchildren and other family and friends.
His funeral was held on Wednesday, August 14; his family requested that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in honour of his memory.
