John Joseph McDonaugh “Big John”
(May 25, 1939 – January 1, 2022)
It is with incredible sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our gentle giant John Joseph McDonaugh on Jan. 1, 2022, following a battle with cancer.
John was the beloved son of Irish immigrants, the late Simon McDonaugh and Margaret (Peggy)Connolly. Beloved brother of the late Robert (Linda Peake). Most cherished husband of Sandy, adoring father of Sean (Nicole Sullivan), Shannon (Aneil Mujoomdar) and adored grandfather of Simon.
John grew up in Saint Henri, Montreal and spent 35 years in education (as a math teacher and guidance counsellor) with the Baldwin Cartier School Board. Later in his career he opened a private practice in individual, couple and family therapy.
“Big John” enjoyed an outstanding basketball career both as a player and as an official. He travelled the world as an international basketball referee and had a career high of refereeing in the 1976 Olympics. He was the recipient of many citations for his involvement in the sport including being inducted into the Quebec Basketball Hall of Fame and receiving the Ted Early Memorial Award.
In retirement, his favorite pastime was enjoying a game of golf and a laugh with good friends.
He was a proud Irishman and lived a life of great faith, humility, and compassion. He worked tirelessly within his community, always had a helping hand for anyone in need. He will be remembered always in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Organizations closest to his heart included St. Leonard’s Society of Canada (Vice President), Maison Cross Roads (President), Saint Patrick’s Society, Innisfail Social Sports Club (President) and Saint Veronica’s Parish.
He will be missed by his beloved in-laws, his loving nephews, nieces, and cousins in Canada, the US and Ireland and his many close friends.
A funeral will take place at St. Veronica’s Parish, 1300 Carson Avenue, Dorval. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Voluntas Commemoration inc.
If you wish, donations in his memory may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (www.jdrf.ca , 35 Yorkland Blvd, # 600, Toronto ON, M2J 4Y8)
“May he rest in peace”
Reginald Caulfield, Provincial Supervisor, NSBO
January 5, 2022 at 7:04 pmJohn was a friend to all basketball officials from the East Coast to the West Coast. Nova Scotia officials were saddened to hear of John’s passing. On behalf of Nova Scotia Basketball Officials, our sincere condolences to John’s family. He will always be remembered for his significant contribution to officiating. Veteran Nova Scotia officials will certainly have many good stories to tell about John for years to come. Rest in peace dear friend.
Nicole et Gord
January 5, 2022 at 7:33 pmGoodbye John. You will be missel. Gord and I want to offer Sandy and her family our deepest condolences
Carol Grazys
January 6, 2022 at 3:51 pmDear Sandy, Sean and Shannon, With deepest sympathy from our hearts to yours. You have lost a precious husband and father and we have lost a true friend. Carol, Christine, Brigita and Elizabeth.
Richard Bernard
January 7, 2022 at 4:00 pmDear Aunt Sandra, Shannon and Sean, Sending heartfelt condolences and thinking of you during this time. Uncle John was a source of inspiration with his wit; wisdom; and calm demeanour. It gives comfort to know that he was with his loved ones right til the end. He will be missed.
Brenda Staples
January 8, 2022 at 3:22 pmMy deepest condolences to Aunt Sandy, Shannon, Sean and family. Uncle John was a true bright light in the world. He will be missed by many. May all who knew and loved him find strength and comfort in your wonderful memories. Rest in peace gentle man.
Tobi Staples
January 9, 2022 at 2:13 pmMy sincerest heartfelt sympathies to you Aunt Sandy, Sean, Shannon, and family. I love you all …… May Uncle John Rest in Peace….. xo He will always be loved and never forgotten
Roger Harte
January 10, 2022 at 11:05 pmHe will be sadly miss he was basket ball coach
when i was kid
Sandra McDonaugh and family
May 1, 2022 at 8:27 amWe would like to thank you all for your kind expressions of sympathy. Your support is greatly appreciated.