Obituary of John Robert Dankowsky
John passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the age of 89. His faith remained strong and brought him comfort during his final months. John was ready to be wrapped in God’s loving embrace and welcomed this next phase of his life’s journey.
John will be sadly missed by his brother, Al (the late Patricia) Dankowsky. He is lovingly remembered by his niece, Pam (Greg), his nephew, Rob, as well as his great-nephews, Liam and Noah, and great-niece, Danika. John’s off-beat sense of humour and unexpected one-liners continue to be a source of laughter for us.
He is predeceased by his parents, Bruno and Matilda Dankowsky (nee Greschner), and brother, Bill.
In the late thirties, John and his parents walked away from their land in Saskatchewan. After enduring many hardships, the family, now including John’s two younger brothers, settled on a farm in St. Clements.
John was a gentle, humble and easy-going soul who cared for and remained with his parents until their passings.
John retired from the Region of Waterloo after 28 years of exemplary service. He could always be counted on to accept additional shifts, when called upon in the middle of the night, to plow the roads.
John enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as frequent get togethers with his buddies, Ron and Bill, at Timmies, long drives in the country, times spent by the lake at the cottage, attending steam engine shows, family dinners or taking the dog for a walk. Contentment for John was sitting in his recliner, a dog snuggling on his lap, a glass of Baileys and chocolate milk to sip while reading the Toronto Sun. The only extravagance John allowed himself was buying a new truck every few years.
Johnie was the Dr. Doolittle of our family, caring for any and all creatures he encountered. He spoiled the family dogs rotten and kept the neighbourhood birds, chipmunks, squirrels and rabbits well fed. John even tamed a family of skunks living under our shed!
The family are grateful to John’s dear friend, Ron, for the good company and countless ice caps you provided during John’s years at Victoria Place and while in hospice.
We would also like to thank all the staff and volunteers at Hospice Waterloo Region, including Dr. Christopher, John’s nurses and PSWs for the warm and attentive care they provided.
Cremation has already taken place. As per John's wishes, a private family interment will take place in March.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to Hospice Waterloo Region or the KW Humane Society in John’s memory would be appreciated, and may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home at 519-745-8445 or via www.erbgood.com.
Rest in peace, Johnie. We love you always.