It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of John Frank McAskin on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 87.
Born on April 20, 1939, in Belleville, Ontario, John was the beloved son of Joseph Mansell ("Mac") McAskin and Edith Mabel McAskin. During his early childhood, his family lived in Trenton and later Calgary, Alberta, before settling in Ottawa, Ontario.
John attended Queen's University, where he earned a Bachelor of Health and Physical Education degree before attending Teachers’ College. John’s professional journey saw him move to Barrie, where he began a long and dedicated teaching career that culminated in his retirement from T.L. Kennedy in 1996.
He also proudly served for many years in the military reserves and spent many summers with the Cadet Summer Training Program at Canadian Forces Base Borden.
John was an avid football and basketball enthusiast, deeply involved in both playing and coaching.
John loved the outdoors and could often be found canoeing and camping, especially in Killarney Provincial Park, which held a special place in his heart.
John’s legacy lives on through his loving family. Don (Anne) McAskin, David (Wendy) McAskin, and Lynn Blair-McAskin; their mother, Sydna McAskin-Gruchy; his brother, Robert (Bev) McAskin; and his cherished grandchildren, Nicole Blair, Emily Blair, Troy McAskin, and Trevor McAskin.
John is also lovingly remembered by his wife, Elisabeth Mowling, and her children, O'Neil Mowling, Laura Mowling, and Katie Mowling.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Meadowvale Village Hall, 6970 Second Line West, Mississauga, Ontario. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us for lunch as we celebrate John's life.
Forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered.