Obituary of John Armitage

John Armitage We all give thanks in honour of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, gentleman and friend. He was a tremendous man, teacher, mentor and guide who had the energy and perseverance of a hundred men. His love was pure and endless for all without prejudice. His smile was so subtle, so strong and so present. As a serial entrepreneur, gifted recruiter, and merchant banker, John worked hard- not for riches, but for the joy of visioning, building and innovating which he did with so many ventures and enterprises. He took selfless pleasure in coaching and mentoring countless prodigies to grow and thrive in their careers. His honesty, brilliance and integrity are legendary. He set the highest standards with his wise soul and huge heart. John's well cultivated network of business colleagues will sorely miss invaluable counsel, commitment and humble strength. John's love and spirit will live on forever through his beloved family: his soul mate and wife Martha (Shea); his kids and greatest joys, Chelsea and Michael and their partners Mark and Melinda; his much-doted-upon grandchildren, Sam, Maggie, and Tabby; his siblings, Rick, Don and Penny; his nephews, Craig, David, Brad and niece Kelly, the entire Shea clan; Judy and the Illick family. The final day before John died, he said that his three greatest accomplishments were: 1) He always took the high road and stuck to his principles; 2) He gave more than he took away in life; and 3) He lived up to his mentors-- his two grandmothers. We will all try our hardest, pops, to live up to you and your tremendous legacy as best as we possibly can. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME A.W. MILES - NEWBIGGING CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville) from 2:00 - 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13. A funeral and celebration of John's life will be held in EGLINTON ST. GEORGE'S UNITED CHURCH, 35 Lytton Boulevard on Friday, November 14 at 11:30 a.m. Following his wishes, there will also be a celebration of John's life at a later date in Montreal. At the family's request, donations in John's memory may be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.