It is with mixed emotions that we share the news of the passing of John Peter Wistoski, who peacefully left us on September 3rd, 2025, at Matthews House Hospice at the age of 80.
John was born and raised in Toronto, where he thrived as an only child, filled with curiosity and energy. His early years were marked by his passion for sports, particularly as the star running back at Kipling Collegiate Institute. After earning his degree from Waterloo Lutheran University, he began his career at Healthco Dental Supply Ltd, where he worked his way up from the warehouse to become a Sales Representative. John’s dedication and charm earned him the title of Best New National Sales Representative in 1989, and he capped his remarkable career at Henry Schein with a well-deserved recognition for 30 years of exceptional service in 2021. John was a beloved figure in the dental world, known for his light-hearted jokes, infectious laughter, and the countless donuts and smiles he delivered from Brampton to Owen Sound. “Wizzer” will never be forgotten.
Outside of work, John had a zest for life. He was an enthusiastic golfer, often the first on the course with his best friend Terry Jackson, soaking in the morning sun. John also loved curling, he played it, he watched it, and after retirement, he dedicated himself to organizing the Senior Mixed Curling League for four years, right up until April of this year.
In 1974, John met the love of his life, Marie, and they built a wonderful life together, moving into their first home in Beeton in 1975. They have only one daughter, Dana, the pride and joy of their hearts. John was a father who embodied kindness, patience, and compassion, always leading with love and his favorite advice: “Remember to always stop and smell the flowers along the way.” The family home remains the same beside loving neighbours John and Millie Allen (Esther and Sarah) for the past 50 years, their extended family. His heart was also big for animals, and he was known for sharing his meals under the table with his beloved dogs over the years.
John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Marie Wistoski, his daughter Dana Garner and her husband Bill, and their three daughters Jade, Holly, and Sara. Their Papa always had a good laugh with them, and was so proud to see the people they are growing up to be. He will be dearly missed by his best buddy and Kaiser partner, Terry Jackson, and his wife Julee, as well as his colleagues, neighbors, and curling club families in Cookstown, Alliston, and Kurl for Kids.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alliston Humane Society or the Kurl for Kids Pro-Am Charity Bonspiel, two causes dear to John’s heart.
John’s legacy of joy, laughter, and unwavering friendship will continue to shine in all who knew him.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held Rod Abrams Funeral Home, 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham ON., 905-936-3477 on Wednesday September 10, 2025 from 4:00pm – 7:00pm in the funeral home’s Cliffside Hall. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Service
Celebration of Life
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Road, Tottenham Ontario L0G1W0
Wednesday September 10, 2025
4:00pm - 7:00pm
Maureen Jutras says
Marie, Dana & family, I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He spoke of his family often, and had such pride in his grandkids. He was kind, had a great sense of humour, was hard working and the most dedicated sales rep I ever had. I missed seeing him at the office after I sold the practice. We retired about the same time. The ODA ASM was not the same without him at the Schein booth. I hope the many memories your family has will buoy you through the difficult loss.
Mary Jefferson says
I’m so sad to belatedly hear of John’s passing. We all looked forward to his visits and help in the dental office. He was part of our team! He will be missed. My heartfelt sympathy to you , Marie, and your family.
Kathy Street says
To Marie, Dana and family,
I’ve only just heard the sad news of John’s passing and I send my heartfelt condolences to everyone. I spent many days over the years working with John as an industry rep and I can say that I feel like I know you a little bit because he told me so much about you all!
Always quick with an ever so slightly naughty joke with a wink to share with the customers and, more importantly, which buffet we were going to have lunch at, John made everyone laugh while simultaneously being a consummate professional and getting the job done. I will remember him very fondly.
Kathy Street
Susan Jevons says
Marie, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. Thinking of you xoxox
John Glass says
Marie and family. I was so sorry to hear of John’s passing. My condolences to you and your family. He was a wonderful person, and will be sadly missed by the Cookstown curling community.
Melanie Jane Ollikainen says
Marie & family & friends, I am so sorry for your loss. John will be missed in so many ways and in so many places. Curling clubs in many towns will be quieter, however heaven will be enhanced by his wit. Take care of yourselves and each other, Jane Ollikainen
Jennifer de Winter & Gary Laakso says
Dear Marie
I am so deeply saddened to hear that John is gone. He was the best part of Wednesday afternoon in the winter. He was fun and kind and witty and gentle and such an all round wonderful fellow. I, like the Johnson’s, remember the false teeth – he had me at hello!
Full disclosure Marie, I loved your husband – he was a great friend.
What I know and everyone knows is that you were the love of his life. Your lovely smile when he would tell his jokes – you had a special bond that everyone could see.
I know Gary shares in my sadness and we send you our thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer de Winter
Rachelle Hodinka (Shelly Field) says
Please accept my sincere condolences Marie and Dana. You were the only family I ever regularly babysat for and I remember those years fondly. John was always very kind to me. Wishing you peace and light during this time.
Fraser McTavish says
When I first met the Wizzer, we were competitors, and it soon became apparent that John represented a trait common in the time of my Father and Uncles in that a customer’s loyalty was earned and not bought.
The large following that he had was due to hard work, reliability, and most of all honesty!
We both had been enthusiastic curlers for most of our adult lives and had many games against each other in the Dental Spiels, followed by lots of laughs after each contest.
Four years ago, John suggested that I might enjoy playing in Kurl-4-Kids , each year on Easter weekend. He was absolutely correct, as it is a wonderful experience, for a good cause, and ( being probably the two oldest “Old Farts” in attendance) a great chance for me to hang with this incredible gentleman.
For John to team up , each year, with his amazing Daughter and Son In Law, Dana and Bill, would most certainly have been a yearly highlight.
This coming year “Tricky Sticky” will be in another place drawing the lid several times a game , and we will be thinking of him.
Fraser
Catherine Pitkin says
Marie and family
I was saddened to read of your loss. John was always working on the yard of your beautiful home.
Condolences to you all.
Judy Morley McNeil says
Dear Marie and family,
It was with great sadness that I learned of John’s passing. I have fond memories of him coming into Tottenham Medical Centre, spreading smiles and leaving laughter in his wake….. may he live on in the memories of his many friends. My sincere condolences…. RIP dear John.
Graham Caise says
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. I worked with John for 16 years at Ash Temple and Henry Schein where we shared a lot of laughs. All the best to John’s family during this difficult time.
Graham Caise
Jackie Calhoun says
Marie, Dana and family,
John was friendly and such a joy to speak to, after moving to Beeton from Alliston, I would often run into him at Foodland. I remember him fondly from our time curling at the Cookstown Curling Club. He was great to curl with and against. Sending my prayers and deepest condolences to you all.
Trudy Boisclair says
My sincere condolences to the families. Peace be with you John . God Bless. You were always so friendly when coming in to our office years ago.
Bob & Joyce Johnson says
Marie and Dana and family We are so sorry to learn that John has passed.. he has left so many happy memories Always happy and making others smile .( I remember the night he walked into the Cookstown club with his “false dentures “ )
Still makes us smile . Forever in our hearts ..rest in peace John ,you will be missed .
Mary Lynn Nosad says
Dear Dana, Marie & family, I’m so sorry for your loss. Look after yourselves, and thinking of you with fond wishes. Mary Lynn Nosad
Sheri Sallows (nee Jackson) says
Marie & Family,
So very sorry for your loss….Sincere condolences to all. I will remember Mr Wistoski fondly, for the kind & happy man he was.
Cathy Milbury says
Marie, Dana and family my deepest condolences to you all. I have known John for over 30 years throught the dental field. His family meant everything to him. John always had a funny story for us and doughnuts. May he rest in piece.
Cam Lindsey says
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was our dental rep for 40 years and provided excellent and reliable service all of that time. He always had a joke to share and cared about his clients as the friend he became. Condolences to his family. John will be missed by many
Steven Sale says
So sorry to hear of Johns passing. I worked with John for many years. Curled and golfed at the many dental functions with him always there. So many ODA’s! John was always considered “one of the good guys”! He will be missed.
Unfortunately we are out of the country and will miss celebrating John’s life with family and friends. That said, our thoughts and prayers will be with you during this difficult time. Our sincerest condolences.
Steve Sale & Donna Riley
Kevin Cosman says
Sorry to hear of John’s passing, I enjoyed many Sunday morning golf games at the Nottawasaga with John and Terry. Condolences to Marie, Dana, and family!
Kevin and Betty-Ann Cosman
Linda Copeland says
Many fond memories with you at the curling club on Wednesday afternoons. Condolences Marie and family.
Dianne Hofman says
Dear Dana, Marie and family,
I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Dana, I only met your dad a few times but I remember his friendliness and wonderful smile. He will truly be missed.
BettyJean Reid says
John was such a wonderful person – best man to Dave Landry at our 1982 wedding, a great coworker at Healthco, the best curling skip I ever had and a always a great sense of humour and smiling face. He will be missed
Franca says
My condolences Marie, Dana and family
I had the honour of working with John at Henry Schein. We all knew when John was in the office as he always had i. In tears for all his wonderful jokes that would have us laughing for hours. Thank you John for everything and your smile and kind soul will never be forgotten.
Franca Parente
Warren & Jan Baker says
To Marie, Dana and Family
So sorry to hear the sad news of John’s passing.
He was my best friend throughout my teen and early adulthood years, a roommate in our final university year and the best man at our wedding. A move out of province initiated a parting of ways, but it was my good fortune to cross paths with John again, late in life.
He had many admirable qualities: a loving and devoted family man; a loyal and trustworthy friend; kind, caring, generous, and respectful of others; fun-loving, good humoured and sociable. Surely, we have lost one of the “ good guys “ —— he will be missed.
At this most difficult time, please accept our condolences and sympathies for your loss .
Warren & Jan Baker
BettyJean Reid says
John was such a wonderful person – Dave Landry’s best man at our wedding in 1982, a supportive coworker at Healthco, the best curling skip I ever had and always a smiling face. He will be missed
Alan Masters says
Dear Marie, Dana, Bill and girls
So very sorry to hear of John’s passing. Look after each other in this difficult time. Love and happy memories ❤️
Alan and Wendy Masters
Gord McDowall says
I only knew John for 8 years through work in dental laboratory. I looked forward to his biweekly visits. He also always brought 2 dozen doughnuts. We would sit and talk about life for a few minutes each visit since we were close in age. I am still working and thought about him often. He was a great guy. My condolences to his family and friends.
Neil McTavish says
My sincere condolences to the loved ones of John. I had the absolute pleasure of working with Wizzer for 10+ years and he was someone I looked up to and admired. He always had a joke to share and never seemed to be in a bad mood.
Rest Easy Wiz
Les Kravitz says
John was a true friend to all of us in the dental industry. His passion to make us smile was equal to his love for a smoked meat sandwich from Katz’z Deli! May his memory be a blessing for us all. Rest in Peace Wiz.
Don & Lois Gluck says
We are so sorry to hear of John’s passing and our sympathies go out to Marie and family. I have known John since our days at Kipling Collegiate and Waterloo Lutheran University and although our paths took a diverse route, we reconnected in recent years. John was an outstanding athlete and funny guy. Rest In Peace John.
MARIJANE ARCHER says
Sincere condolences to Marie and Family.
Very sorry to hear of your loss.
Dave and Margaret says
So sorry to hear of the passing of John. Wednesday afternoon curling will never be the same. I always looked forward to his banter and his sense of fun and joking both on and off the ice.
Pat Shacklady says
Sending sincere condolences.
John was a really great guy. He sure made a lot of people laugh over the years. He’ll definitely be missed.
Thinking of all during this difficult time
Bob and Gail Matthews says
Marie and family. Gail and I are so sorry to hear of John’s passing. We extend our condolences to you and your entire family. He was a great guy and so much fun to curl with. He will be sadly missed by the Cookstown curling club and the entire community.
Tammy Schmidt (Owen) says
My condolences to Marie and family. So many memories of John at the curling club. Sending hugs to you all.
John and Rhonda says
Thinking of you all and remembering our curling days and the good times we had !
Ralph & Linda Gilroy says
Our deepest condolences & love to Marie, Dana & family.
We will always have our wonderful memories of John. We will miss you John.
Ruth Stamper says
My Fond Condolences to Marie and family. John was so much fun playing cards at the Jacksons. He would make a grand entrance with his whoopie cushion. Laughing and playing cards was always a Hoot. He will be missed. Always ,Ruth Stamper.
Richard & Peggy Ann Field says
Our condolences to Marie, Dana & family. We are so sorry to hear of John`s passing . You are all in our prayers
Kathy O’Connor says
Sorry to hear this sad news.
I worked with John @ Henry Schein.
You could alway count on John for a lighthearted joke or two.
He was a kind person.
Janet Noel says
Dear Marie , Dana and family
I so sorry to hear of Johns passing. We worked together at Henry Schein for many years and when John retired I took over some of his accounts. Our Dental industry all loved and respected John with His smile and his wit.
John hated flying and we would travel together to our sales meetings with me making sure he got to the airport , on the planes and back home again. He will be missed but by none more than you Marie and Dana ( I can’t tell you how often he spoke of your girls )
With warm regards
Janet
Kathryn Fitzgerald says
Marie and family
I am very sorry to hear about the lost of your beloved husband and father to Dana, may he rest in peace.
Kathy
Donna Brewster says
Sending my condolences to the family of John. He always brought a smile into our office. He will be sadly missed by many.
Lucy Pappas says
Sincere condolences to the family of John Wistoski.
He was deeply respected in the dental industry and admired by all who knew him.
Always smiling, always kind—he will be truly missed.
Joel David Hall says
Helen and I offer our condolences to Marie and the rest of the Wistoski family.
John was a special part of the Cookstown curling club with his wit and humor, always welcoming and kind. John welcomed me to the club back in 2016 when I wandered in the first day of curling, and made me feel like part of seniors curling family.
John will always be in our fondest memories
Joel and Helen Hall
Millie and John Allen says
Heartfelt condolences and sympathy to Marie, Dana, Bill and the girls at this very sad loss. John was more than a neighbour for 50 years, he was a great friend. His passing will leave a huge void. And yes, we were recipients of a box of doughnuts many times, but there’s no one can top his meatloaf. RIP John ❤️
Dave Hunt says
To the Wistoski family,
I was very sorry to hear the sad news of John’s passing…a mutual friend, Tom Wilkinson, was good enough to let me know…we all worked and met in the dental business back in the day!! Please accept my condolences for your loss at this most difficult time…John will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him!!
Sincerely,
Dave Hunt
Michael King says
Hello Marie and Dana
I am very sorry to hear about Johny. I never met anybody that did not love the Wiz.
He was a very special guy with a big hart.
I will miss him.
The boys will be raising a glass and telling stories for a long time.
All the Best