MARCH 12, 1949 – JANUARY 14, 2024
John was born, raised and spent virtually all of his nearly 75 years as a proud resident and promoter of Cambridge (Galt), Ontario. He passed away in his sleep on January 14, 2024 at Highview Residence in Kitchener where he had lived for the last two years. The ravages of dementia forcefully drained John of his cognitive and physical abilities during the last years of his life. He was lovingly supported during this journey by his extended family, friends and caregivers at Highview Residence.
John was blessed to be part of a large family, both while growing up and throughout his life. As the oldest of eight children, John was a strong supporter of (and occasional enforcer for) his deceased parents Doreen and Frank Lengyell. Daughter Jennifer was always a big part of his life, as was her mother Judith Lengyell. John is survived by sisters Carol (Midge) and husband Ross Cunningham, Lisa and partner Arlene Claydon, and brothers Richard and wife Ellen, Mark and wife Debra, Kevin and wife Jane Suline. Predeceased by sister Sandy (Toots) and surviving husband Peter Banton, and brother Greg and surviving spouse Tammy. John was the dearest companion for many years to Judy McGill and a cherished friend to Angie Peddigrew.
John attended Conestoga College after graduation from high school and, while attending to technical matters remained the bedrock of his professional career, an early couple of years working in one of Canada’s largest bank taught him that corporate life was not for him. He commenced an accounting and administrative services business which became the launch pad for successive entrepreneurial endeavors in diverse businesses as operator and owner. He retired in 2011 after completing the sale of the last of those businesses. Never being one to put his feet up for too long, John’s retirement years were spent acquiring, renovating and holding many residential buildings in the Cambridge area.
John had a life (mostly) well lived; amiable to all and a stalwart friend and family member throughout his life. John’s unyielding support of siblings, nieces and nephews and friends was a source of strength to all with whom he was associated.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Coutts Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 96 St. Andrews Street, Cambridge on Friday, January 19th at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow.
Fond memories and donations to Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario may be shared through the funeral home at www.couttsfuneralhome.com.
