John Davidson remembered
Councillor, businessman, Rotarian and friend
By Richard Whitehead

He came into our lives quietly with determination, poise, and confidence. He left us with dignity, courage, and grace.

I knew John Davidson for more than 30 years as a businessman, Rotarian, councillor, family man, and most importantly as a friend.

My first memories of John were in his hardware store in downtown Bolton.

Kate was about four at the time and she used to quietly steer me into the store to look at the Cabbage Patch dolls. She would wait patiently for "Mr. Davidson" to come along and show her the newest arrival. They would share a few moments together in her world and she knew that he really cared. Kate has always called John "Mr. Davidson" as a sign of her respect for him.

A few weeks ago, John phoned the house and told Ruthe, in his halting and weak voice, that he had just come back from Headwaters Hospital being treated for a sprained ankle. He was sitting there waiting and along came the emergency doctor who said to him quietly, "Well Mr. Davidson what have you done to yourself?" There they were again sharing a few moments in Kate's world just like the old days in the store.

With all his pain and with all his struggle with A.L.S., he still took the time to tell Ruthe how thrilled he was to have Kate as his doctor.

This was John Davidson in every way. He cared about others. He cared about his community. He cared about his family and he cared enough to make a difference.

Through the years, I frequently found John at my side. If there was a job to be done, John would be there. If there was somebody to be helped, John would be there. He was the quiet voice and the quiet leader. His relaxed and laid-back style disguised the man of constant energy and strong commitment.

John and I served six years together as councillors in Caledon for Albion and Caledon East. He worked many hours at his job and then would spend the evenings serving his constituents. He never complained, never lost his temper, and never failed to give good advice.

John and Ann always worked together. See one and you would see the other. Their love and partnership was an inspiration to us all.

I can still see John whenever we would reach a turning in the road of our life journey. He would stand there with his head tilted to one side, his hands spread apart a little, and with that calm little smile on his face saying, "Well that's it then. Where do we go from here?"

Well, that's it John. We will have to go on without you now but you'll still be there. Your spirit, your drive, and your leadership will be our inspiration and our guide. When it doesn't quite work out, we will still be able to see you standing over to one side with your head tilted to one side, your hands spread apart, and that little smile that means, "Pick up the pieces and try again. It will work out the next time."

Good bye John, old friend. We'll see you around the next corner.