Death Notices

ROXBURGH, John Maxwell (1933 - 2021) – surrounded by his loving family at the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home, Simcoe on Thursday, July 8th, 2021 in his 88th year.  Beloved husband of the late Erika (nee Martin) Roxburgh (2020).  Loving father of the late John “Jay” Roxburgh (2018) & Audrey of Simcoe, Cindy McInally (Don) of Simcoe, Jacqueline Newton (Steve) of Woodstock, Vera Crossley (Mike) of Hamilton, and David Jennings (Charlene) of Vineland Station.  Cherished grandfather of John Roxburgh (Natasha), Douglas Roxburgh (Rachel), Danny McInally, Christy Lisk (Joey), Carlee Stewart (Pat), Travis James (Kerri), Brittany Waters (Jake), Wesley Newton (Angelie) and Samantha Willan (Jon).  John will be lovingly remembered by many great grandchildren.  Predeceased by his parents, the late Jack & Marion Roxburgh and by his brother Jim Roxburgh.  John was born and raised on the family farm near Simcoe, a graduate of S.C.S. and attended Ryerson College in Toronto enrolled in the Radio & Television Arts program.  This led to a career that included CKNX in Wingham, courses at Mohawk College and a return to his hometown of Simcoe as news director at CFRS followed by CHNR.  John always considered his 30 plus years in broadcasting were his most enjoyable as his position enabled him to meet many notable people including every Prime Minister of Canada from John Diefenbaker through to Stephen Harper with the lone exception of Kim Campbell.  He managed to weave into his broadcasting employment approximately 5 years of sports editor of the Simcoe Reformer and nearly 10 years as owner of Roxburgh Country Market.  Family outings and travel played an important part of his life including trips to Portugal, Germany, vacations in the U.S. and boating on Lake Erie while bookshelves full of Canadian and World history provided reading comfort.  Various memberships over the years included the Lion’s Club, H-N Housing Authority, SMHA, OMHA, OHA, CRGA, SDCC, Conservative Party and St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.  Failing health in later years curtailed his community involvement.  John loved life, finding joy in most everything he did, employment, politics, gardening, cooking (with a glass of red wine) entertaining, and of course football & hockey. (His beloved Leafs & Argos)  John’s epitaph – Every day is a gift.  Live it as though it is your last because my friends one day it will be.  Enjoy life and thank God for everything you have.  This is not a dress rehearsal.  Friends are invited to share their memories of John with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe for visitation on Wednesday, July 14th, 2021 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.  A private family service, “by invitation only” will be held with Pastor Dan Abraham officiating.  Interment of ashes: Oakwood Cemetery, Simcoe at a later date.  In following the Covid19 government guidelines for funerals, six feet social distancing must be maintained & facial coverings are mandatory.  Those wishing to donate in memory of John are asked to consider the Alzheimer’s Society of H-N or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.  Special thanks to the staff and residents of the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home for their love, compassion & friendship during John’s stay.  You all have a special place in our hearts.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199