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John Crossen Obituary
He will be missed by his brother-in-law, Bruce Crane; and sister-in-law, Debbi; his nephews, Adam and Matthew; and nieces, Pam and Heather.
John was born in Midland and came to Canada in 1967. He often joked that Toronto threw him a big party to mark his arrival (it was, in fact, the celebration of the Stanley Cup victory by the Toronto Maple Leafs). After an award-winning career in advertising, John retired and he and Deb decided to cast away the big city lights for the darker skies of Buckhorn.
John turned his passion for astronomy into a popular tourist attraction in 2002 – the Buckhorn Observatory. He entertained thousands of visitors over 12 years, showing them the wonders of the universe. John also developed a successful outreach program, taking his hobby to resort guests and local organizations. He was past-president of the Peterborough Astronomical Association and taught their beginning astronomy course.
John will be remembered by family and friends as a kind, generous, funny guy who always made time for others. He loved life, his friends and his community. His spirit will live on in the stars.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Buckhorn Regional Health Centre or Buckhorn Community Centre would be appreciated. A celebration of John's life will take place at the Buckhorn Community Centre on Sunday, April 8, 2018 from 12-3 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Crossen
5 Entries
Angela Barbetta
March 30, 2018
So sorry to hear that John has passed away. We spent many weekends star gazing at his Buckhorn observatory with other astronomy friends. Deb and John made everyone feel welcome and never complained when we were still awake at 3am talking under the light of the Milky Way ! Thank you for so many fun times...
Debbie Reich
March 29, 2018
Sad to hear of the passing of John Crossen. I grew up in the 70's and the theme song to The Littlest Hobo was a weekly occurance in my household. I am 54 years old and still sing it occasionally. It makes me smile and reminds me of my youth. Thank you for your talent. Rest in peace.
Keith Kuhlman
March 25, 2018
John was a good friend of mine back in the days of Grinnells Music Store on Main Street in Midland. Played a lot of blues on our guitars. He was a great guitarist and had a good sense of humor. He will be missed.
David Morrison
March 24, 2018
John and I go back to 1960, when I was a beginning teacher, and he was a student in my very first art class at Midland High. In time, we became very good friends, and he was always looking for things to do, to help me out, in my class room and at home. What a delightful guy he was. I have very much missed him over the years after he moved to Canada. We did stay in communication, so I know of his adventures in the Buckhorn area, and his two loves, Deb and astronomy. He had a good life in Canada. it was home. And Deb, It is his great sense of humor, those fun and wonderful memories that will keep you strong. Prayers to you, and God bless.
David Morrison
March 24, 2018
Very saddened to hear about John. He was a long time friend and former student, dating back to 1960. I have great memories of my time spent with him. His intelligence, his wit, his friendship and love will be missed. My heart reaches out to you Deb. Your wonderful, fun times together are the memories that will keep you strong. Prayers for you. God bless. Dave
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