In memory of

John Christopher Illingworth

December 16, 1938 -  May 3, 2018

Illingworth, John Christopher

December 16, 1938-May 3, 2018

John passed away peacefully on May 3, 2018, with an adoring audience at his side. He will be sorely missed by his loving wife, Norma Crawford, his step-children Graham (Christianne) and Hilary (Robert), and grandchildren Sara, Julius, Henry, Vivian and Christian. He is survived also by his sister Barbara Newman, son Martin (Bonnie) and grandson Ben. Born in Portsmouth, England, John immigrated to Toronto in 1961. A manager with Topping Electronics for 40 years, John was at heart an actor who loved live theatre. He appeared in many plays, most memorably in leading roles like Big Daddy in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Dr. Dysat in Equus. He worked with Alumnae theatre, Stage Centre, the Arts & Letters Club, East Side Players and various Fringe Festival productions. He also read the news for CNIB's VoicePrint for many years. Perhaps instead of flowers, donations can be made to Diabetes Canada. Condolences, photographs and memories may be posted in this guestbook.

Guestbook 

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ANNE TAIT (friend & stage director)

Entered May 5, 2018 from TORONTO

John -- this tall, commanding man -- was full of talent, intelligence, and fun.
He was a pleasure to direct and a pleasure to know. I will miss him and his singular voice and presence.

ROGER KELL (Friend and fellow actor)

Entered May 5, 2018 from Toronto

So sorry to read this news. Only this week had sent him an e-mail. I had not spoken to in recent months.
My condolences to Norma and family.

Marie Tralka (Friend)

Entered May 5, 2018 from Toronto

John, as a friend you deserve a standing ovation

Daryl Taylor (Friend)

Entered May 5, 2018 from Toronto

To remember my friend John is to remember a man who made you enjoy life every moment you were with him. His incredible sense of humour was infectious as he found something humorous in seemingly insignificant things. He was a man larger than life in every aspect.
Even though I only appeared on stage with him at Hart House and The Arts and Letters Club, I realized that John was an incredible actor and regret that I did not see his triumphs in plays like The One Day of the Year and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. He always attended the plays in which I acted and was quick to comment on my performance. “Good is not the word” he would say or “I’ve never seen acting quite like that”. We would celebrate.
I will miss John in so many ways. What fun we had.
My thoughts are with Norma and his family.

Inez Newbold (Friend)

Entered May 5, 2018 from Toronto

So sorry for your loss, Norma. sending lots of hugs and kisses. Inez

Photos 

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