John Harrison

John Arthur Harrison passed away peacefully in the afternoon of Friday May 15, 2026 at Grey Gables in Markdale, wrapped in the love of family and friends.

John attended Dufferin Public School and the Owen Sound Collegiate and Vocational Institute. Following graduation, he enrolled at the University of Toronto where he studied architecture and enjoyed the cultural scene. He was a local champion of cultural heritage and the arts in Owen Sound, eventually serving as President of the Grey-Bruce Arts Council. During this period he made several contributions, including the co-founding of Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival. His creation of Tempo Foundation celebrated local icons Billy Bishop, Norman Bethune, and Agnes MacPhail. Outside of the local area, his most prominent project was in a key role on the design team of Science North in Sudbury. He was given the Heritage Canada Achievement award for his work in establishing Community Heritage Ontario and served as its founding President.

Survived by wife Helen (McDuff); sons Colin (Julie, granddaughters Olivia and Quinn) and Will (Amanda, grandson Logan); brother Tim (Carol); sister-in-law Margaret McDuff; nephew Noah Harrison (Sophie); and a grandniece and two grandnephews. John is predeceased by brother David Bowman Harrison, father Arthur Pratt Harrison and mother Vera Elizabeth Harrison (nee Bowman) of Owen Sound, and parents-in-law Dave and Olive McDuff.

We are so grateful to the outstanding staff at Grey Gables for their kind care.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the Arboretum at Inglis Falls, 237897 Inglis Falls Road, Owen Sound. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce, the Summerfolk Endowment Fund or Kemble Sarawak Church would be appreciated. Private Interment Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services, greybrucecremation.com.