DAVREN, JOHN
Feb. 03, 1945 – Jul. 18, 2017

John passed away peacefully Tuesday morning at the Juravinski hospital with his loving family by his side. John was already blessed with his two children, Miles (Kerri) and Megan (John), when he had the good fortune to find a magical love with his best friend, Margaret. He was welcomed into her home by her children, Colleen and Stuart. As a Papa, he was a hero to his grandchildren, Sloane and Spencer. He is survived by six siblings –Alec (Cathy), Rose (Pat), Margaret, Liz (John), David (Evelyn) and Ann (Barry) – and will now be reunited with his sisters Helen and Jean (Frank), his beloved brother-in-laws, Jackie Grant and Jimmy Mackin, along with his parents Rose and Alec. His many nieces and nephews will miss him. Born in the heart of winter in Garngad, Scotland, John grew up in a large and loving family. He told fond stories of those days, joking that sleeping nine in a bed kept him from living up to his destiny of being 6’2” (though friends will tell you that he walked around as if he was 6’6”). A devoted Glasgow Celtic supporter, football was in John’s blood. After coming to Canada in 1966, John threw himself into shaping teams and leagues in Hamilton. He became a founding member of Hamilton Sparta Soccer Club. Playing and coaching for more than 40 years, he built a lifetime of special memories with teammates and taught dozens of young players about the game – and about life. He finished his football career as an executive member of the Hamilton District Old Timers League. John was a barber for 52 years and the chair in his shop on Barton Street was never empty. His work forced him to be a confidant, a mediator, a counselor, and a comedian – a role he took very seriously – and he loved every minute of it. His friends were his clients and his clients all became his friends. The family would like to express their sincerest thanks to all the staff at Juravinski hospital, unit F4. By doing their job with class and compassion, they allowed John’s family to enjoy this important time with him. Visitation will be held at P.X. DERMODY FUNERAL HOME, 796 Upper Gage Ave, on Saturday July 29th, 2017 from 1-3 pm. The Celebration of Life will follow in the chapel at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Juravinski hospital would be greatly appreciated.

Rest in Peace, John. You’ll Never Walk Alone. Hail, Hail.