John David Reynolds

Forever in our hearts

John David Reynolds
February 3, 1943 – August 10, 2026

It is with profound sadness that the family of John David Reynolds announces his passing on August 10, 2026, at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, surrounded by those who loved him.

Born in Marmora on February 3, 1943, Dave was a lifelong resident of the community he was proud to call home. He was the beloved husband of Heather Reynolds, with whom he shared more than 60 years of marriage, and the devoted father of five children: June Vaters, the late Tracey Thompson, Dale Reynolds (Penny Reid-Reynolds), Christine Milionis (Dimitri), and Catherine Reynolds (Paul Sleeth).

Dave was the proud grandfather of Darcy and Brandon Vaters; Kyle, Christopher and Jesse Thompson; Kristi, Daniel, Megan (deceased) and Curtis Reynolds; Victoria Milionis; and Brody and Connor Sleeth. He was the great-grandfather of Jonathon, Anna-May and Blake Reynolds; and Vinny Sleeth. His family was, without question, his greatest accomplishment and his greatest source of pride.

In addition to his wife and children, he leaves behind his brother Bill Reynolds of Kenora. He was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Hilda Reynolds.

Dave was a hard-working man who believed in providing for his family. During his early working years, he spent long days at the Marmoraton Mining Company, including working 12-hour shifts during the years when the mine was an important part of life in Marmora. When the mine closed, Dave worked at Miller Brothers Paper Mill in Glen Miller, carrying on a long and dedicated career.

But Dave was much more than the work he did.

He had a lifelong love of antiques and collecting, a passion that became part of family life. He even operated an antique business where his children were introduced at a young age to his love of finding old and interesting treasures. Dave had a special eye for things that others might overlook.

And if there was a yard sale somewhere on a Saturday morning, there was a very good chance he knew about it before most people were even awake. He was famous for getting up before the sun to search for the best deals and the next great find. For him, the fun was often in the hunt.

He also loved to travel and cherished time spent with his family at the cottage north of Marmora, a special place that held generations of Reynolds family memories. Some of the happiest moments were found in the simple things—family gathered together, stories being told and treasures being discovered.

Dave will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a hard worker, a collector, a traveler, a mean euchre player, a bargain hunter, and most of all, a man who loved his family deeply.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Dialysis Unit at Peterborough Regional Health Centre, who embraced Dave as one of their own during the six years he received treatment. Their kindness, compassion and friendship meant more to Dave and his family than words can express. We also wish to thank the ICU staff who cared for him with dignity, kindness and compassion during the final days of his life.

A church service celebrating Dave's life will be held at a future date, with details to be announced. He will eventually be laid to rest in Marmora Common Cemetery.

He worked hard. He loved deeply. He collected many treasures, but his greatest treasures were always his family. Rest peacefully, Dad. You will be missed more than words can ever say.