John Eastman

July 30, 1939 – January 3, 2026

Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family in the home he cherished on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Predeceased by his beloved wife Donna (2012), loving mother Hilda, and father John Sr. Will be deeply missed by his three daughters, Dawn Eastman-Coates (Steven), Tricia Dominik (Michael), and Valerie Winter (David). John’s love and legacy will live on through his grandchildren, Madison (Braden), Michaela (Eli), Emma (Lucy), John (Charleigh), Simon (Joey), Samuel, Gabriela, and Nadia. He will be fondly remembered by his siblings Caroline Ferguson (Donald) and Charles Eastman (Marlene) and his six nieces, his nephew, and their families.

John was born in Elgin, Illinois on July 30, 1939. The family moved to Canada in 1947 to a farm in Portland, Ontario where they had cattle, horses, and a sugar bush. Here, he created many wonderful memories with his older sister, Caroline. In 1949, their younger brother Charles was born. On a fishing trip, John’s father discovered Crotch Lake, and they shortly thereafter sold their farm to purchase cottages there that the family then ran as a fishing lodge called Pine Cove Cottages. John assisted with improvements to the property, helping to build new cottages and he guided the fishermen.

In his early 20s, he met Donna in Kingston, and they married on October 17, 1964. They spent 17 years in Amherstview where they raised their three daughters, Dawn, Tricia, and Valerie. While living here, John was an avid golfer at the Amherstview Golf Course.

In April 1987, they moved to Hay Bay when they purchased Cedar Point Resort. They ran this as a fishing resort every summer until Donna’s passing in 2012. John thrived here as he loved being by the water, the outdoors, and working with his hands. He was also a talented musician and filled this place with his music.

While living at Cedar Point Resort, his three daughters got married and his six grandchildren were born. Throughout the years, Cedar Point Resort became a place of family, joy, and celebration. Most recently in September, his grandson got married there.

John’s wishes were to pass away in the place he loved the most. The last few days of his life were spent at home surrounded by love, family, and music. John was a fiercely independent man and did not accept help easily. The family is grateful that he allowed his daughters to care for him and are especially grateful that his eldest granddaughter, Michaela, was able to provide him with end- of-life nursing care that respected his wishes and dignity.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Kate Koester, Nurse Richard Oskrdal, and the Smile Girls, Penny, Jacqueline, and Monica.

Cremation has taken place in the care of Wartman Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held the day before Father’s Day on June 20, 2026. Further details to follow closer to the date. Donations in memory of John can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Ongwanada. Condolences and donations can be forwarded online through wartmanfuneralhomes.com.