It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John (Big John) Pollock on December 27, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario. He was a dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. Born in Swastika, Ontario, John was predeceased by his parents Robert and Margaret (Fawcett) Pollock, his brother Robert (Bob) Pollock, by his sisters Norah Lomax and (Mary) Kathleen Nairn, his brothers-in-law William (Bill) Wright, Graham Nairn, and Ronald Heale, his sister-in law Dorothy Pollock, as well as by his nephews Ian Lomax and Robert (Bob) Wright. John is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 64 years, Barbara (Lowe), his children John (Barbara), Sherrie Ann, Robert (Michelle) and his grandchildren, Scott, Grant, Sarah, John (Jack), Sabrina and Sophia and by his great grandson Finley. He also leaves his sisters Roberta Wright and Ann Heale, his brother-in-law Don Lomax (Katherine) and his many nieces and nephews.
John worked tirelessly in the mining industry throughout his life. He was involved in exploration and discovery from a young age, having held his Prospector’s License in good stead continuously since 1950. His legendary stories of turning 21 in Uranium City during the rush and prospecting for gold, silver, uranium, oil and diamonds will be greatly missed. When asked about the number of drill holes he had been responsible for during his career, he once laughed and replied that, yes, he could confirm a lot of places where mines were not! Nonetheless John had a successful career in mining exploration and finance. In addition to helping to finance numerous projects and companies, John launched 13 public companies during the course of his career. John was known for his generosity, dry sense of humour, his honesty and integrity. He loved Canada and was a proud Canadian. While he supported numerous charities, he was a lifelong supporter of the Salvation Army and the United Church. John cherished his extended family. A loving father, he always supported his family’s hopes, dreams and aspirations and whenever he could help, he did so without hesitation. John’s great sense of humour, ability to laugh at himself, unbounded generosity and his tight-lipped smile will be missed. Our sincerest thank you to the outstanding care at Toronto General Hospital and at the Bickle Rehab Centre.

A private memorial service for family and friends will be held at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The Salvation Army or The Scott Mission.