John Edward DEEKS

1943 - 2022

JOHN EDWARD DEEKS July 29, 1943 - October 29, 2022 Having led a successful and well lived life, John, at 79, will be deeply missed by his steadfast and beloved wife, Margaret (née Cole); and his caring children, David (Suzanne), Megan (Simon Paabor), and Martha (Michael Tkautz). "Da" was so proud of his grandchildren, Cooper and Charlotte Deeks; John Paabor; and Gemma and Sophie Tkautz. John Edward was born in Toronto on July 29, 1943 to Edward and Mary Deeks, both deceased. He attended Upper Canada College, Appleby College and Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University). Full of spirit and energy, he then focused his active mind on the stock market, as he had always planned for himself. He started at Burns Brothers and Denton, then moved to a position at Walwyn Stodgell Cochran Murray, and ultimately into a distinguished career as one of CIBC Wood Gundy's leading Investment Advisors and head of The Deeks Financial Group. His loyal and extensive client list was acquired by his daughter Megan, several years ago and flourishes to this day. Outside of work John was a stellar squash, backgammon and dominoes player at the Badminton and Racquet Club, and an unpredictable but enthusiastic golfer at Rosedale Golf Club (especially with a modest wager on the line), The Strand (Florida) and Ladies Golf Club of Toronto with Margaret. A cherished and respected friend to far too many people to name; a godfather to many, and above all, a loving, generous and deeply committed husband and father to his family. Everyone knew John as a memorable character, and a sincere and interesting man who loved his friends and colleagues, and their kids. Anyone over the age of ten will remember a vigorous and endless John Deeks handshake, often accompanied by a rattle of smarties in his pocket, and the warm and mischievous smile that went along with it. In addition to his immediate family, John is survived, and will be greatly missed, by his sister-in-law, Wendy Deeks (the late Peter); and their daughters, Sarah Deeks (David Freeman) and their children; and Jocelyn Deeks; his devoted brother, Jim; sons, Charlie (Carla) and Colin (Rachel) and their families; and sister-in-law, Barb; his brothers-in-law, Allan Cole (Patricia Moore), Bill Cole (Laurie Budd) and their families. A Service will be held at Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, 230 St Clair Ave W, Toronto, ON M4V 1R5 on Wednesday, November 2, at 3:00 p.m., with details on a Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Alzheimer's Society of Toronto.