Obituary of John Robert Wanless

Passed away peacefully at the Ottawa Civic Hospital on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the age of 80. John was the beloved husband to Frances (nee Hillis).  He was a loving and devoted father to Jodi (Darin) Anderson, Terri (Chris) Madden and Nicole (Roy) Alexander.  Proud grandfather to Raeley, Taryn, Reese, Clark, Carly and Maeve.  Also left to mourn this loss are his sisters Margaret (David) Beam and Catherine (Norman) Wareham and his brother-in-law Wayne Taylor.  John is predeceased by his parents Rev. T. Gordon and Janet (nee Adams) Wanless and his sister Elizabeth Taylor.  He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, his extended family along with Fran's family, and his many friends in Smiths Falls, Grand Valley, and surrounding communities. John spent his career working as a land surveyor, however his passion was music. John started playing the organ as a young teenager and became an accomplished organist playing in many of the area churches. He enjoyed playing both on his own, as well as joining his many friends in music for various performances.  He will be sadly missed by all of those who knew him.  Friends may pay their respects at Blair & Son Funeral Home, Smiths Falls, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. A service to celebrate his life will take place at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Smiths Falls on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery, with a reception to follow in the Westminster Church Hall.  If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Intensive Care Unit of the Ottawa Civic Hospital.