Obituary of John Sprott Sedgewick

John Sprott Sedgewick passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, in Amherstview, Ontario, at the age of 80, just as the fires dimmed at his beloved Blue Skies Music Festival.

 

Born in Toronto on April 4, 1946, to Jessie and Charlie Sedgewick, John inherited a rich musical heritage from his parents. He grew up in Willowdale, attended York Mills Collegiate Institute, and graduated from Queen's University in 1968 with a degree in metallurgical engineering. While at Queen's, he proudly won the Tricolour Award for his contributions to the campus.

 

Music and science defined John’s life. His musical journey began early with the St. Simon’s Boys’ Choir and continued at Queen’s with his stage band, "The Coachin’ Four," alongside close classmates Bruce Amos, Bruce Smith, and Roger Jones. Over the years, John sang with the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Open Voices, Limestone Voices, Cantabile Choirs of Kingston, and the Martello Alley Cats.

 

A true "science guy" with an endless curiosity, John worked at the Toronto Zoo from 1974 to 1979 before becoming a dedicated teacher. He was also a passionate beekeeper, a skilled woodworker, and an avid lover of nature.

John held a quiet love for his family, fostering creativity and curiosity in his children: Shauna (Andrew), Megan (Stephen), and Jack (Grace). He cherished his six grandchildren: Ella, Lily, Andrew, Matthew, Byron, and Audrey. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, and was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Susan "Susie" Wilson Sedgewick, who passed away from cerebral palsy.

 

John’s charming nature, harmonious voice, and bright mind will be missed by all. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. His ashes will be spread in Middle Musquodoboit, Nova Scotia, at a later date.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Lonnie Bergstein, Kate Thomas, the staff at Kingston General Hospital and the Transitional Care Unit for their exceptional care, kindness, and unwavering support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy.