It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of John McClain at the age of 77 at home, which was his true sanctuary. Survived by his loving wife Gail McClain (nee Woods). Very proud father of Tiffany (Ian) and Max (Taylor). Loving Poppa to Connor, Abigail and Boden who gave his days so much laughter and joy. Dear brother of Shirley Kant (the late Jim) and the late Janette Carrick (Stu). Predeceased by his parents Oral and Betty McClain and his brother-in-law Herb Woods. Forever in the hearts of his nieces, nephews, extended family and the very special friends whom he considered family.
John was very proud of being a lifetime Tottenham boy. More than anything he cherished his friends that have been with him since childhood and have remained with him to this day.
Known for his exceptional compassion and unwavering dedication, John took immense pride in his work. For 52 years McClain Fuels remained a strong presence in the area. John loved to drive that blue oil truck through Tottenham and give any acquaintances he saw along the way an unsuspecting honk or his signature hand greeting. Not only proud of the business; it was the relationships he built with his customers, both young and old, that he relished. There was always time for conversation and advice if requested!
Unknown to many, John had a deep love of nature and hence the enjoyment he found from his property. He was proud of it and found solace and joy in the beauty of his surroundings.
His loyalty was shown through his dedication to his brand of rum, his sports and his friends. Most trips usually involved all of these and thus there are many great stories (most of them censored!) as a result.
His love and pride in his family was immense and John was overjoyed when his family grew to include a son-in-law, daughter-in-law and grandchildren which he cherished.
His family is grateful and wish to thank the doctors, nurses and friends who supported John throughout his medical journey.
The family will receive friends at Rod Abrams Funeral Home 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477 on Friday September 20, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Saturday September 21, 2024 at 10:30am. Interment will follow in Mt. Tegart Cemetery with reception to follow at the McClain residence. For those who wish donations in John’s memory to Sick Kids Foundation or the Our Town Food Bank Tottenham would be appreciated. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
“Nothing good lasts forever”
~John McClain
Service
Visitation
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Road
Friday September 20, 2024
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Friday September 20, 20246:00pm - 8:00pm
Funeral Service
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Road
Saturday September 21, 202410:30am
Brent Sweeney says
My name is Brent Sweeney I’ve known John for years. I just found out last Saturday about his passing. John will be missed by many . I went into the fuel truck with John, helped him to pull the hose out times I went to Coppers leather in Toronto he let me back the truck in. I will always remember his laughter and loudness. My heart goes out to the family. I will always remember John’s big blue truck honking the horn or waving at you in Tottenham. Also will remember John’s beautiful red Regal. When Nobbie passed away years ago John was so good to him. My prayers and condolences go out to the family I’m still in shock.
Cliff says
I’d sure like to pass on my heartfelt Condolences to John’s Family and friends.
John would fill my Fuel Tanks throughout the mid to late 80’s in my back yard Shop on the 4th. Line where I kept my Car Carriers.
He always had a moment to wave as he’d pass by after my heating needs were changed to Natural Gas… His memories will live on through out the History of “Tottenham”
Peter and Kathy Naisbitt says
Part of Tottenham all the years that i Knew him. He will leave a big whole now that he is moved on. God Bless.
Robine Hawkes says
Gail,
So sorry for your loss. My mom and I offer you our sincere condolences. We are both thinking of you.
Nancy Forestell says
On behalf of Pat Forestell, Mary Wood, and myself (Nancy Forestell) we wish to express our sincerest condolences. We reminisced on the weekend that an encounter with John over the years always resulted in a great deal of laughter. And yes, a bit of teasing. For years, Nancy was greeted by way of hello as “Baldy.” (It’s true that she had little hair before the age of two!)
We also recalled John’s many acts of kindness including his stopping by to visit Alice on occasion. We know he will be greatly missed.
Joanne & Pete Duggan and family says
Gail and family, we are so sorry for your loss. His laughter, along with his smile will live on through the memories we have. Thinking of you at this time.
Joanne & Walter Randon says
Our condolences to the McClain family our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time RIP John.. Walter & Joanne Randon & family
Lori Walkem says
Gail,
I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing, send a big hug to you all ❤️
John Veals says
Gail and Shirley
I was so sorry To hear of John’s passing and my condolences to Gail and Shirley.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Joanne & Walter Randon says
To Gail Tiffany and Max & families…. Was so saddened to hear about John.. He was such a great guys always making us laugh when he came over with his jokes… RIP John Will miss your smile Walter & Joanne
Nikki Leyser says
Sending all of my love and deepest sympathy to all of the McClain family. May the memories you all shared together help give you strength during these most difficult days. Thinking of you all
Cheryl Vienneau says
To the McClain family
Our sincere condolences in John’s passing.
Lawrence & Cheryl Vienneau & family
Elaine and Pius Pittman says
So sorry to hear of John’s passing . Our deepest condolences to Gail, his children and all the family
Michele Tomlinson says
Our deepest condolences
The Tomlinson Family
Kay Moir says
My thoughts and prayers to the entire family My Grandmother lived across the corner when we were kids. My Brother, Doug and I enjoyed our visits with John, Shirley and Janette. I often thought of you all Kay Watson Moir
John Fleck says
Gail and Shirley and family. So so sorry to read of John’s passing. Remember him fondly.
Just an allround good person. John
Vernon & Julie Burnie says
Your roaring laugh will be missed John, condolences to Gail and family
Mary Jane Culgin says
Dear Gail, Tiffany, Max and Family
We were so sad hear of John’s passing. You are in our thoughts at this sad time.
Sincerely,
Mary Jane Culgin and Sean Ronan
James and janet scott says
John you will be missed, such a character and loved much by us
Barbara and Wayne Courtney says
Our condolences to the family. John was special. Have known him since I was a teen. Always look forward to his conversations atleast once a week when he came to our business.
Ashley O'Hara says
My sincere condolences to you McClain Family. John had the presence to light up a room with joy and fun! My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Ashley O’Hara
Glenn & Debbie Sheardown says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you,
Elena Pendergast says
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to the friends and family of John, from my father John Pendergast as well as myself.
Darlene and Bob Sunnerton says
To Gail and family and Shirley, We were so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He has fought a hard battle these past years. Please accept our prayers and condolences. Treasure all your happy times together. John is at peace now.
Maureen Hasselmann says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our there with you and your family. I have know John since I was a little kid. He was a kind man.
Peter McGoey says
Dear Gail and all the McClain family, we hope all the good memories help with the sadness. You all are in our thoughts and prayers, we hope John is Ok with “Mic” heaven with all his friends. Peter and Sandra McGoey and family
Terry MacDonald says
John delivered my oil for several years. Always took the time for a quick chat. He was a very kind man. My deepest sympathies to all his family.
Margo & John Cooney says
Gail, Tiffany, Max and families,
Our heartfelt condolences to all of you on the loss of a husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather. John was a loving family man and a loyal friend to all he met. We will always smile when thinking of John, his infectious smile and little glint in his eye as he told you a story or entertained with a joke. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Rest in Peace, John.
Margo & John
Sandy Vernon says
Our deepest condolence’s so sorry for your loss. Blessings Bob and Sandy Vernon
Gary and Faye Broad says
Gail and family, So sorry to hear of Johns passing. I loved that wonderful deep voice, He certainly fought hard for a long time.
Michael McKay says
My thoughts and prayers are with you Gail and your family. I have fond memories of John’s quick wit and jokes. When I think of the town Tottenham, I immediately think of John. Rest in peace…
Olli & Sue Kauppinen says
Our deepest condolences to Gail & Family . John will be missed , he was a real pillar of our community . Rest in peace John
Michael McKay says
Thoughts and prayers for Gail and the family..John left a lasting memory of quick wit and laughter for me.. I have not seen John for quite a long time but when I hear somebody mention the town Tottenham I immediately think of John and the memories he created.. RIP
Glen Schlueter says
Gail sorry to hear of John’s passing. My condolences to you and your family.
Natalie Copp says
So sorry to hear of the passing of John I have known him for 40 years when I started working with McGoey Brothers Ins. and he use to come into the office often and at the post office and bank. I also had the pleasure of hearing the truck horn when I was walking.
My condolences to his Wife, family and friends at this difficult time he was a very special person for sure. RIP John you sure will be missed. Natalie Copp
Bill & Natalie Cranston says
Johnny, Johnny, Johnny!! Wow, how the time has ‘flown’ bye! Since our days playin together on the ‘ Tottenham Warriors’! You were one of the reasons we had a hard time winning a hockey game! (Haha). Then you started delivering us , your ‘make me rich’ oil! For 30 years, wow, I am a sucker, your words!
Hey fella, I know , how you like, us ‘Catholic’s! Our feeling is mutual! You are ‘one of the best!! Fly free, free bird!!! Can’t wait till we meet again! All the best to the family, !
Jim and Shirley Hanrahan says
Gail and family, Our sincere condolences on John’s passing. We always enjoyed our chats when meeting him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Theresa and Michael McClevarty says
John delivered oil to our family home for many years and even though he was busy while here, he always made time to chat and share a good laugh. Our sincerest condolences to the McClain family.
Bill & Joan Wilmot says
So sad to hear about Johns passing,
Our deepest condolences to you Gail and your family.
We hold you in our thoughts.
Margaret Bricknell says
My condolences to the McClain family. Sending my prayers to you during this difficult time. John always had a friendly smile and a story to share.
Kate, Dave, Jerrad, and Josh Smith says
Gail, Tiffany, Max and families
We are very sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to all of you. John was a great guy with a good sense of humour. We will remember all the good times.
Sarah Ballinger says
my sincere condolences to Mrs Mc Clain and family. John was the salt of the earth, one of a kind who will be missed by all whose life he touched . RIP in Peace John. Sadie Ballinger.
Mike & Cathy McGoey says
Dear Gail and family, we wish to extend our condolences at this most difficult time. We will both reflect fondly on memories of John, a man larger than life, full of goodness, who will be sorely missed by many.
In our thoughts and prayers, rest in peace John.
Mike & Cathy McGoey
Wayne and Betty Sutherland says
Gail, Max and Taylor, Tiffany and Ian, and family
Sending our sincere condolences at this sad time.
Wanda Horan says
Gail, Tiffany, Max & Family,
My heartfelt condolences are with you all. So many fond childhood memories. xo
Mary Wiley says
Our very deepest sympathies to the McLain family during this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Garry and Mary
Paul Kearney says
Mrs McClain & Family,
Your Husband and Dad was a legend , he pulled his oil truck over many times in front of the house and would keep my Dad up to date on what was new or going by yelling something out the window (I am keeping it censored) I also from time to time see him in the Lorreto Tavern having his lunch. He sure did have a heart of gold and always willing to give a hand to people. Johnny will certainly be remembered, he was a really great man
Kim and Kevin Dermott says
Our sincere condolences Gail and family .
R McCarthy says
My sincere condolences to John’s family.Ive known him since our hockey days and high school many years ago.
RIP John
Bob McCarthy
Susan Halbert Hunter says
Gail and Family:
I was so sorry to hear of John’s passing. Thinking of you at this very difficult time.
Janice Milne says
I am so sorry to read of John’s passing. Over the years delivering oil to my house we enjoyed many conversations and he was always willing to offer advice or assistance. My deepest sympathy to the entire family.
Karen Marshall says
My condolences to Gail and family. My thoughts are with you all. I always loved chatting with John, he had great stories to tell and always made me smile. He had a kind heart and was always so nice to me . He will be missed by all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Ginny & Ivor Cathcart says
Dear Gail and family, we are so very saddened by John’s passing. We always enjoyed our chats with John. When we moved to Tottenham in 1988 John was our “fuel guy” for many years. He always had time for a chat and shared great stories about his hometown. He was always a pleasure to be be with. Please know we are keeping you all in our hearts and prayers.
Robert Beck says
Gail and family
Please accept our sincere condolences .
Bob and Sue Beck
Glen Schlueter says
Gail sorry to hear of John’s passing. I have known John and you for many years.
My condolences to you and your family.
Nancy Barton says
Gail and family,
Extending to yoo and your family my sincere condolences ion the passing of John. Cherish your precious memories.
Donna Jones-McGoey says
Heartfelt condolences to the McClain family.
We are truly grateful to have been able to call you our dear friend.
Your booming voice and boisterous laugh will never be forgotten.
R.I.P. Johnny Boy.
Love, Tod and Donna, Mitch, Susannah and Chad McGoey
Mary Doldersum says
Dear Gail, Tiffany, Max and family
I was so saddened to read of John’s passing, as I know Ralph would have been.
We enjoyed the many visits over oil fill ups.
John always had that quirky grin when you met him.
Hopefully he and Ralph are enjoying gabfests and planning hayrides for the community in Heaven!
Mary, Todd, Julie and David
Xoxo
Shirley Morrow says
Gail and family We are so sorry for your loss. He suffered so much. He will be at peace now. Hold on to the wonderful memories you have. We will keep you in our prayers and hearts
Hugs Shirley and Nolin
Bernadette Bailey says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the McClain family during this difficult time. The last time I saw John we reminisced about days gone by and he shared some pictures of those good times. Cherish your memories! RIP John!
Bernadette and Mark Bailey and family
Marc ronan says
John was and will always be a legend in Tottenham and McLain Fuels is etched in the minds of many.. Wishing the entire McLain family Heartfelt condolences from the Ronan Family
Barb and David Bricknell & Family says
So sorry to here of John’s passing. Please accept our condolences.
Kerry and Betty says
Our sincere condolences to Gail and extended family. So many memories of a neighbour and friend for many years who will remain in our hearts forever.
R.I.P John
Leonard Petherick says
Rest In Peace Johnny Boy… My Condolences to Johns Family and Friends of which he had so many
Linda Abernethy says
Gail, Tiffany,Max, Ian, Taylor & family,
Deepest condolences at such a difficult time. I’m sorry to learn of John’s passing. Eldon always loved seeing John’s fuel truck arrive at our Thornton farm, no matter the weather, they’d both stand outside beside the truck & share their stories.
You’re in my thoughts,
Linda Abernethy
Julie Sharpe says
Gail and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember John, Jack and my dad laughing and having a good time. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Julie Sharpe (Argent)
Chris says
Sending our heartfelt condolences; your loss is deeply felt by all who knew him. John’s spirit will forever be with us, Sending love & prayers to you all,
Chris & Lisa De Angelis & family, xoxo
Pat and Wayne Callan says
We are sorry for your loss, Gail. Please know we are thinking of you at this difficult time. Pat and Wayne Callan
Cathy and Ian True says
Gail and family,
Ian and I will miss John’s sense of humour and honest talk! So many great memories were made with you all at the cottage on Simcoe. Surrounding you all with so much love at this time. Cathy and Ian True
MaryLou, Paul and Jessica Maher says
Dear Gail, Tiffany, Max and Families,
Sending our heartfelt sympathies to all of you at this sad time, and remembering John’s witty character and great sense of humour.
Keeping you all in our thoughts.
MaryLou, Paul and Jessica Maher
Terry Sullivan says
Godspeed John, you were definitely one of a kind and will be remembered for a long time to come. My Sincerest Condolences to the McClain family!
Robyn & Chad Farmer says
Sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad Max. He was a pillar in the community and love by so many. Thinking of your family during this time. Sometimes words are difficult to express but are felt with in the heart
Jackie Maher says
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family Gail.
Lots of good memories
Love Jackie
Dorene Lemire says
So sorry Gail to hear of your loss. John has travelled a long hard road lately and now is at rest with no more suffering.
My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Mike Pring says
So sorry for your loss. John will sure be missed along with his sense of humour. Mike Pring and Elaine Duffin
David, Dorothy Vienneau says
Our deepest sympathy to Gail and family John was a pillar in our community and always had time for a chat or a wave R.I.P John
David,Dorthy Vienneau & Family
The Sullivans says
John was a great man and he’ll be sorely missed. We are thankful for the many great memories.
Our deepest condolences to you Gail and the family.
Pit, Melissa & Griffin Sullivan
Alice & Barry Kant says
Gail, Shirley and families, our sincere condolences in John’s passing. We know his medical journey was getting ever tougher but he still had the big smile and a hearty hand shake and hello. We did not know of his love for nature and commend him for that. The McClain Fuel business whether with Oral or John was a fixture in the town and did the Town and them proud. I remember teaching (?) John in the United Church Sunday School a long time ago. Remember the good times.
Jürgen Schneider & Heidi Semple says
Keeping the entire McLain family in our Prayers at this difficult time.
Eric S, Smith says
To Gail and all of John’s family, I’ll miss Johns grouch greetings because we grouched each other almost every time we met,ll of which was in fun of course.
John was always generous and supportive of his neighbors at the South Simcoe Railway.
From the volunteers at the Railway, and especially myself, as a friend, please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Eric S.Smith
“Smitty”
Judy Lipsett says
Our condolences to the McClain Family cherish all those wonderful memories you will hold close to your heart.R.I.P.John no more suffering in pain.Cal and Judy Lipsett and Family