Ewart John Holinshead

With profound sadness, the family of Ewart John Holinshead announces his passing on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. John persevered the challenges of Multiple Sclerosis, primary progressive, for 25 years.

Mourning his passing is his devoted wife, Susan Holinshead, daughters Kim Strickland (Elson Strickland), Kelly Holinshead-Peacock (Kyle Peacock). Predeceased by daughter, Jody Holinshead. Proud grandfather of four granddaughters: Emma Strickland Kilby, Alexa Strickland Faykes, Kyla Strickland, Talia Strickland, and two grandsons, Samuel Holinshead-Farnsworth and Gabriel Holinshead-Farnsworth. John was so very proud of his family, their achievements and successes.

John was born in Huntsville, October 18, 1947, a descendant of a pioneer family. He attended Riverside and Huntsville High schools. Upon earning his secondary diploma, John was briefly employed at Fred Brueton Ford Sales. In 1974, and with a business partner, opened a vehicle repair service station, West End Gulf. Always accomplished in mechanics, the business gave John the opportunity to successfully earn his Red Seal endorsement. Unfortunately, due to conflict with the oil company, the business closed in 1987. John’s last employer was with the Kimberly-Clark Corporation in Huntsville.

Aside from providing for his family, John diligently pursued his hobby. He owned, rebuilt and raced several cars, travelling to drag strips in southern Ontario. He later discovered Rupp snowmobiles and was an avid collector of machines, parts, literature and paraphernalia. During the winter months he would participate in many scheduled weekend races. His last accomplishment was the hand-building of many necessary motor parts, and the assembly of a three-cylinder Rupp racing motor for a friend in New York. Regrettably, the advancement of MS in the last four years was apparent, preventing him the continuation of his hobby and most daily activities.

The family is appreciative and sincerely grateful for daily, in-home assistance of the personal support workers, Occupational Therapist and nurses, from The Gap and The Friends. Their constant care and concern permitted John to remain at home where he was most content.

Visitation will be held at the Mitchell Funeral Home Friday, September 12 from 6 - 8 p.m. Funeral service to be held in the chapel September 13 at 1 pm. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The MS Society of Canada, Huntsville District Memorial Hospital or a charity of personal choice.