In memory of
John C. Carroll
December 8, 1933 -
April 29, 2017
On April 29, 2017, John left this life. Loved and loving, he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara (Dunbar). He has left a legacy of love and pride in his children: Jennifer (John), Suzi, Lisa (David) and his grandchildren: Tom (Jill Blakey), Sarah and Trevor Lowden and Samantha Whitehurst. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Elizabeth Carroll.
He was a graduate of Honours Business at Western University in 1956. While at Western, he was a member of the Zeta Psi Fraternity. He received his MBA from University of Toronto in 1962. John was a self-made man and had an illustrious business career at Proctor & Gamble, Warner-Lambert, and retiring as CEO and Chairman of Molson Breweries. John, committed to the philosophy that people are more important than products in building or transforming business, became a mentor to many.
John loved his family and friends. He had a great sense of humour, intelligent mind, and a keen interest in history and travel, business and world affairs. He loved tennis at the Granite Club and tolerated golf at the Toronto Hunt Club. Throughout his life, he had a passion for staying fit by going to the gym.
John and Barb built a winter haven in Naples, Florida, which was one of his favourite places to be. The Country Club of Naples benefitted from his expertise on committees and a large group of friends whose lives were enriched by his presence. The house in Naples became the family 'cottage' where we would go to visit one-on-one, walk on the beach, enjoy good food, rest, relax and catch-up. John was always interested in what his children and grandchildren were doing. He mostly listened but any advice given was useful and well thought out.
John and Barb married in 1956, 8 years after meeting in grade 10 English class. Theirs was a true love story. They were joined at the hip throughout their life together. They travelled the world and part of their life adventure included moves to the UK and New Jersey. John always said 'he couldn't have done it without Barb's help, support and encouragement'.
John had many health challenges, especially in the last four years. He amazed his medical teams by his ability to overcome illness despite overwhelming odds. He faced these challenges with strength, dignity and humour. He appreciated all of the love and support that he received from his family and friends. His family will be forever thankful for this.
Family and friends are invited to gather at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto (east gate entrance north of St. Clair Ave) 416-485-5572 on Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017, from 5-7pm.
The funeral will take place Friday, May 5th, 2017 at 2:30pm at Rosedale United Church, 150 Roxborough Dr., Toronto. Reception to follow at the Toronto Hunt, 1355 Kingston Rd., Toronto.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. Michael's Hospital Foundation in memory of John C. Carroll would be much appreciated.