Devlin, John

John Bernard Devlin passed away peacefully on March 27, 2014, at The Stratford General Hospital, age 91.  Predeceased by loving wife, Mary Devlin (Swaychuk) and     parents Frank Devlin and Ester (Carveth).  He is survived by his five children: Helen (Casey); Roseanne (John-deceased); Frances (Rick); David (Ellen); and Johnny (Laurie); eighteen grandchildren: Michael (Andrea); Melissa; Shawn (Laura); Angela (Tom); Kathryn (Justin); Sarah; Monica; Mary; Linda; John; Jessica (Dave); Adam; Christian; Amelia; Connor; Kearin; Maille; Regan; and ten great-grandchildren: Andrew; Jake; Avery; Katie; Rya; Theo; Mary; Wiliam; Grace; and one unborn baby.  John was born June 23, 1922, in Indian River (near Douro), Ontario.  He taught school in Douro and then attended St. Michael’s College, U. of T., graduating in 1947.  Subsequently, he taught in Cobalt, where he met and married Mary Swaychuk.  They moved to Stratford in 1953, where he taught English for 31 years as well coached football, directed plays.  John was instrumental in initiating a Catholic Secondary School in Stratford.  As well, he served as a Trustee for the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board for many years.  John enjoyed reflecting about his childhood and growing up on a farm.  He lived to share stories about his parents and seven siblings and the humour and love they felt.  John was involved with many community agencies and believed strongly in social justice.  John’s interests included reading, gardening, and the presence of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  John was dedicated in serving the Prolife Movement for over 35 years – at the local, regional, and national levels.  Visitation will be held, Friday, March 28, from 2-4 and 7-9 at the W. G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron St., Stratford (519-271-7411).  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 29, 2014, at St. Joseph’s Church, 96 Huron St., Stratford with Father Bester as the Celebrant.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Stratford and District Right to Life.  The family extends their sincerest thanks to Dr. Wilkinson and Dr. Lussier and the nurses at The Stratford General Hospital for their wonderful care and concern for John. www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com