Obituary of John William Taylor Judson
John William Taylor Judson
It is with a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of John William Taylor Judson on January 7th, 2019, in his 76th year of life, while visiting family in British Columbia
John was born and raised in Kingston, Ontario. He is predeceased by his parents, William and Gladys Judson, and his sister Judith Horsey. He will be greatly missed by his beloved wife and best friend Ann Pavlic. John was the devoted father of Ian (Bernice) of North Vancouver, Taylor (Denise) of Cardiff, Wales, Neil (Laura) of Vancouver Island, and Jack and Ella of London. He was also a loving grandfather to Merlin, Sophia, Maelle, Calla and Naomi.
John graduated from Queen’s University in 1965 with an Honours BA. He was a longstanding member in the Fort Henry Guard Club of Canada, in Kingston. He joined the Finance Department of the Government of Canada, moving on to become Executive Assistant to the President of Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick. After a return to Queen’s University, where he earned his LLB in 1971, John joined the Faculty of Law at the University of Western Ontario. He then attained a promotion to Associate Professor with tenure and, being called to the Bar in 1973, went into private law practice concentrating in the areas of criminal defence and general litigation. In 1978, John was elected to London City Council, serving from 1978-1982.
In 1986, John become a partner at Lerners LLP in London. During 30 years at Lerners, he was active in the firm’s leadership, serving on its management committee. In his varied and rewarding 40 years in the practice of law, he appeared at all levels of court. He was counsel to a major player in a judicial inquiry into corruption in Ireland. His involvement in the Beef Tribunal saw him spending many months in Dublin. John was instrumental in the establishment of the Ontario Principals’ Council, formed to represent elementary and secondary leaders when they were removed from their respective unions. He represented various municipalities and Health Units, and spent many years diligently defending Ontario physicians. In everything he did, John held the interests of his clients in the highest regard.
John was also a longtime supporter of the Grand Theatre in London, and served on its Board of Directors from 1993-2002, with three of those years in the role of President.
As a father, John encouraged his children to challenge themselves and took great pride in their accomplishments. He loved watching his kids play sports, whether at the rink, football field or soccer pitch.
After his retirement, John found immense joy on the ranch with his true soulmate, Ann, enjoying to the utmost nature and the steadfast companionship of each other and their animals.
During the last 12 years, cancer and its treatments presented challenges that only John’s strength could overcome.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 16th, 2019 at the Civic Garden Complex, 645 Springbank Drive, London Ontario, N6K 4T1 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please join us to celebrate John’s life with a special tribute at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to London’s Grand Theatre in John’s name would be appreciated.
