March 26, 1947 – July 10, 2026
On July 10, 2026, at 2:02 p.m., our father, John Scott Waugh, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family and his dog, Maya, on his lap. After a lifetime of living with chronic pain, Dad made the courageous decision to receive Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), allowing him to leave this world on his own terms and finally find the peace that had so often escaped him. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda Waugh (née Vienneau), whose unwavering love and devotion were a constant source of strength throughout their life together. He will be deeply missed by his children, Wade Singler, Brian Singler, and Julie van Kessel (née Waugh). Our dad was a proud grandfather to Connor, Dalton, Jayden, Alexis, Sabrina, Victoria, Brittany, and Karl, and a cherished great-grandfather to Violet, Dakota, and Emma. A mechanic by trade, he loved working with his hands and solving problems. There seemed to be very little he couldn’t repair or build. Electrical work, carpentry, plumbing, painting, cars, trains—if it needed fixing, John was usually the one people called. And if you called him for help, chances are he would be on his way before you had even finished explaining the problem. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping build a house alongside a local high school trades class, sharing both his craftsmanship and his belief that practical skills are meant to be passed on. John was a dedicated member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Caledonia, where he served in several leadership roles, including Past President. He believed in giving back to his community and formed many lasting friendships through his years of service. Together, our parents shared a passion for sport shooting. They were both exceptional marksmen, and Dad took great pride in teaching firearm safety and marksmanship at their gun club. He would be the first to admit that Mom was often the better shot—a fact that brought him as much admiration as amusement. His capacity for unconditional love was evident in the many dogs who shared his life over the years. Patient, gentle, and devoted, he cared deeply for each one. Maya, along with all who loved him, will miss him dearly, and we take comfort in believing they will meet again. While chronic pain was a constant companion throughout his life, it never defined the man his family knew. Our dad measured success not by what he owned, but by what he could build, repair, teach, and do for others. That legacy lives on in the countless people he helped, the skills he shared, the examples he set, and the family he loved so deeply. His family finds comfort in knowing he is finally free from pain. Special thank you to Dr. Mark Miller and nurse Melanie for their kind care. Rest easy, Dad. Thank you for every lesson, every helping hand, every project, and every quiet act of kindness and courage. May your hands always find something to build, may your aim always be true, and may you finally know the peace you so richly deserve with your dogs. Until we meet again. Much love, Mom, Wade, Brian, and Julie. Xo
Celebraton of Life Service for John will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion Caledonia Branch 154, 29 Caithness Street East, Caledonia, on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 1 – 4 p.m. Funeral arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712). Friends and family are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca.
