JOHN RAYMOND KNIGHT
In Memory of John Raymond Knight
John Raymond Knight (1938 – 2025)
John passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at Ottawa Civic Hospital after a brief illness, in his 87th year. Though far from his beloved Carling Township home, he was comforted in his final hours by his devoted wife, Sandra; his daughter, Laura; and close friends Paul and Cathy Beagan.
Born John Whitehorn in Toronto in 1938, he was the first son of the late John Whitehorn and Edith Palmer. One of seven children, he was predeceased by sisters Connie, Roberta, and Myrna, and is lovingly remembered by sisters Cairine and Jacquie and brother Rick.
John’s resolute character and inner strength were forged through adversity, including several difficult childhood years at the Loyal True Blue and Orange Home for Children in Richmond Hill, Ontario.
Encouraged by his stepfather, Bill Knight, John earned his welding certification at age 15. He applied his skills to major projects across Canada: the St. Lawrence Seaway in Cornwall; CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick; hydroelectric dams in northern Saskatchewan; and uranium mines in Elliot Lake and Bancroft, Ontario. It was here, deep underground in the late 1950s volunteering on mine rescue teams, where John found a lifelong spirit of selfless public service and passion as a first responder.
That passion defined his 32-year career with the North York Fire Department. Joining in 1963, he retired in 1995 as a Captain on the rescue truck out of 11 Hall (now Toronto Fire Station 143). Even in his final days, “Captain Knight” spoke fondly to his doctors and nurses of the pride he felt serving alongside his firehouse family.
Baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1969, John devoted himself to his faith. As an elder in the Parry Sound Congregation, he found joy in ministerial work and pioneer service. He used his construction talents to help build several Kingdom Halls, the Norval Assembly Hall, and Toronto Bethel.
His steadfast faith in the resurrection to everlasting life on a paradise earth brings comfort to many at this time.
An avid outdoorsman, John was happiest among towering pines and rushing rivers. Many Northern Ontario lakes still ripple with the memory of his perfect J-stroke. It is there, in the wilderness he loved, that his cremated remains will rest.
John is survived by his wife and best friend of 63 years, Sandra; his daughter and adventure companion, Laura (Dan Heidman); and grandchildren Aidan and Lily, whom he adored.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Community Living Parry Sound would be greatly appreciated.
“Soon in the grand resurrection, sorrow will all disappear. Showering tender affection, God will dry every tear.”
Condolences
Laura and Family,
I enjoyed the friendly and pleasant conversations John and I shared. His easy going attitude and thoughtful sharing on navigating through life and its challenges were an inspiration. He always had something for me to take home and think about.
I always looked forward to our chats whether it be in the parking lot at MNR or anywhere else uptown. He was a great guy.
I tip my hat to Papa John and I look forward to when he and I meet up again in the happy hunting grounds.
Sorry for your loss. John will be deeply missed.
Bart Brown
-Bart Brown
The North York Retired Fire Fighters extend their condolences to the family of John. Both Wes and I worked with him at 11 Stn. and are sorry to hear of his passing. May he Rest in Peace.
-Jim Parton, Wes Rowe
Deepest condolences Laura, Dan & family, and Mrs. Knight.
May treasured memories bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
John
-John Lobo
Sandra, my sincere condolences to you and your family. John is asleep in death but safely in Jehovah’s memory.
-Linda Heikoop
John was a wonderful person and I liked him very much. My deepest condolences at this time to his family and friends.
-Julie Higman
It was always a welcome surprise to meet John on the trail between Birch and Partridge Lake.
It’s been many years, but we still call it Knight’s Trail. A real gentleman.
-Jim Little
Sandra, Laura and family, thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. John will be missed greatly.
-Fred Heidman
Sandra, Laura & family,
As a part of our spiritual family and the NY firehouse family I realize there are no words of human origin to express my deepest feelings for you and so may the promises of our Heavenly Father Jehovah comfort you…
Job 14:14,15
John 5:28
…and the thought that your John would have held onto at
2 Tim 4:7
The fond memory both my son Glenn and I have of our introduction to wilderness camping with you is an unforgettable highlight and served as a springboard to many years of Glamping and is one we hope to experience again in the very near future. Ps 37:10,11,29
I look forward also to virtually attending a Zoom Memorial, when receiving details through the Congregation.
-Ron Jones
When John built his home in Carling Twp., I built his road and septic system and what ever work that he wanted to be done, I just recently had a nice chat with him. Our condolences to Sandra and the family.
-Terry & Ruth Little
Sandra, so very sorry to learn of John’s passing. Although I met him only a few times, the last being at Murdo’s funeral, he appeared a fine person. Condolences also to Laura, whom I had the great pleasure of meeting on that same occasion. Cam and I are both well, and send you our very best wishes. -Margaret Melanson
-Margaret Melanson
Dear Sandra, we are so sorry to hear about John, he was truly a very nice person and made us laugh many times. He will be missed in the congregation and here in Carling Township as well. Both of you always welcomed us with open arms when we would stop by to say hello or snowshoe on your trails at home. We will miss him. We send our love to all of you at this time. ❤️
-Gord & Sibylle Allen
My condolences to Mrs. Knight, Laura and family. Although I haven’t seen Mr. Knight in some time, his kindness and love for his family is something that I remember well. Cindy Profit
-Cindy Profit
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