It is with deep sadness, but with gratitude for our many years together, we the family announce the passing of our much-loved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many, Joanes ‘John’ Franciscus Jozef Gratton, on April 17th, 2021 at the Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe, at the age of 73. John enjoyed spending his spare time fishing in Benmiller, Ontario. He spent much time there with friends and family and enjoyed entering fishing derbies. John is survived by his loving and much-loved wife of 41 years, Kathleen (Laur) Gratton, of St. Williams, ON. Dearly missed by his children: John Gratton, of Benmiller; Kim (Kemp Thorne), of London; Nicole (Pat) Fields, of London; Kari (Josh Botelho), of London. Always a caring grandfather to Trevor Thorne, Lucas Thorne, Mason Fields, and Colton Fields. Survived by his siblings Chuck (Gwen) Gratton, of St. Thomas; Paul (Vera) Gratton, of Woodstock; Grace Lambier (late Nelson), of London; Doris (Albert) Kindred, of London. Also greatly missed by his best friend Neil Johnson.

In keeping with John’s expressed wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no formal memorial service at this time. Friends, neighbors, and relatives are invited to offer their support by posting photos and condolences, making donations in memoriam, and by sharing special memories on John’s tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com. Memorial donations can be made to the “Canadian Cancer Society” or the “Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario” on John’s tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com or through the Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes- Burial and Cremation Services Inc., 262 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg (519-842-4238), which has been entrusted with all cremation arrangements, with confidence.