John Wells

John Wells passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, in his 89th year at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Clare (Ryan Baldwin), children Kevin (daughter in law Michelle, deceased), Colleen, Angela (son in law Bradley) Elliott and Brian (daughter in law Jess). He was a cherished grandfather and Papa to Katie (Michael) Larson, Frances (Nashid), Matthew (Catherine), Ryan Elliott and Kyley Elliott. John was also a proud great-grandfather to Michaela Larson, Marley Larson, Kestral Larson, and Noa Wells.  

 A retired high school teacher, John was instrumental in initiating a cooperative program for his students, helping them find jobs with local companies in Toronto and London. 

  John and Clare began their married life in 1957 in Hull, Quebec, and soon after moved to Toronto. There, John worked as a printer while studying to become a teacher, achieving both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education degrees.  

 During his time in Toronto, John, a devout Catholic, was introduced to the Focolare Movement and became an avid devotee. Physical activity was always important to him, and he became a Masters swimmer, winning many awards and medals across Ontario. In 1980, John, along with Clare, Angela, and Brian, relocated to his hometown of London, Ontario, where he continued his teaching career until retirement.   

After retiring, John was introduced to the good works of L'Arche, where he joined the board and participated actively. John's dedication to his family, his students, and his community will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.   

Visitation will be on Thursday, February 27, at O'Neil Funeral Home between 3 PM and 6 PM. 

The funeral service will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church on Friday, February 28, at 11 AM.  

 In lieu of flowers please make donations to either the Alzheimer Society of Canada at https://alzheimer.ca/en or St Joseph's Health Care Foundation at www.sjhc.london.on.ca/foundation

 Online condolences at www.oneilfuneralhome.ca

 "Each for each other, together for God."