John Redding

Age 87, Resident of Thornhill Ontario, Died Wednesday September 14th, 2011 at Toronto General Hospital of natural causes with his immediate family in attendance. Born March 31st in Diss, Norfolk, England, son of Frederick Matthew Redding & Ellen Louisa Redding (nee Perry). Married 55 years to Margaret Joan Redding. Educated at St John's College, University of Cambridge, John worked until the age of 82 as a Professional Electrical & Civil engineer in the power generation industry in England, Canada and Pakistan. He had a major role in the development of hydro-electric power in Pakistan and Quebec. Highly respected in his field he was most recently recognized at the age of 81 with the President's award for "excellence in customer service" by Hydro ONE. A lifelong proponent of sport and physical fitness, John enjoyed cycling, competitive swimming and diving as a boy. He represented St John's College in rowing, boxing and field hockey. A long distance runner, he twice completed the Boston Marathon and was a competitive rugby player into his 50s; he played with both Metropolitan Vickers and Sale in England as well as the Westmount Rugby Club in Montreal and most recently the Toronto Scottish Rugby Football Club. He was rumored to have planned his wedding to accommodate a rugby game scheduled for that same weekend. John enjoyed summer vacations in Ocean City NJ where many happy family memories were created. He is survived by his loving spouse, Margaret Joan, twin sister Olive, sons Michael and Steven, daughters Margaret (Mars) and Louise and grandchildren Gabrielle, John, Matthew, Brandon, Marcus, Ruby and Andrew. He was pre-deceased by granddaughter Grace. Loyal, determined and stoic, John loved life and was happiest when spending time with family. Friends may call on Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge Street, at Goulding, south of Steeles). A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 19, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Buttonville Cemetery . As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Toronto General and Western Hospital Foundation or the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation .