John Perry

Francis "John" Perry, left this world peacefully on August 21, 2025, at 81, formerly of Corning, CA. He is predeceased by his beloved parents, Frank in 1985, and Violet in 1994. John was born in Toronto, Ontario Canada, on February 9, 1944. His family later moved to Hamilton, Ontario, and lived there until 1952, before moving to California, CA.

John lived with his parents in South Gate, CA, and later in Corning, CA, for most of 44 years. During their time there, John's father owned a trailer park for a while before owning and operating Perry's Olive Grove, which John worked at and later operated after his dad's passing. John attended South Gate High School. He absolutely treasured his high school days and often spoke about those fond memories. He continued to maintain relationships with many of his fellow students from the Class of '62, via telephone, cards and letters.

John enlisted in the US Army shortly after graduation and served three years of active reserve duty at the Fort Bragg Army Base in North Carolina. After his parents had passed away and with the help of his dear cousin the late, Dave Gibson, he sold it all, packed up and moved back to Hamilton, Ontario Canada, in 1996, and lived in Mount Hope with his cherished cats, Bruno and Spike.

John's final years were spent at the Village of Wentworth Heights retirement residence in Hamilton.
In addition to being known for his compassionate kindness and generosity, John was a real character. He had an almost encyclopedic knowledge of such topics as the music of the 50's, sports history, pop culture and current events. And he was also well known for his ability to provide an endless, and we mean endless, serving of opinions, stories and anecdotes to anyone willing to listen. Most of all he was a good friend to many. He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.

As per John's wishes a short and simple visitation and Celebration of Life will be held at PX Dermody Funeral Home in Hamilton, Ontario, and all who wish to pay respects are welcome. Please feel free to go to their website for the full obituary or to leave a message on the Tribute Wall.

In addition, and on a date and time yet to be determined, there will be an interment of ashes at his final resting place with his parents at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Corning, CA. If you knew John and wish to join us at the gravesite ceremony, please contact Charlie Collura at charliecollura@gmail.com for details.

May you rest in peace Johnny, and may we all honor your memory by showing kindness and generosity to those we encounter and those who walk beside us, especially those less fortunate than us and who may not have family to hold their stories.