It is with sadness that the family announces the passing of John Alexander Dorrance, at the age of 86.
John was predeceased by his parents, Albert Stirling Dorrance and Helen Elizabeth Dorrance (Braison), as well as his beloved wife, Denise Diane (Biron).
He is survived by his twin sister Janet Elizabeth (Storey), his daughter Jamie, and sons Stirling, Dale, Bodie, Jason, and Timothy (Tamara). John was also a loving father to Sonny (Jen), Crystal (Matt), and Josh. He will also be remembered by his many grandchildren—Randall and Tara (Townsend), Tabitha and Blake (Hamilton), Jacob and Jade, Jake, Baylee, Brendon, James, Kyle, Macie, Sadie, Devon, Ashton, Ethan, Alexis, Abigail, and Willow—and great-grandchildren Taya, Ava, Declin, Austin, and Brixton (Hamilton).
John was a strong and independent man with an old-school temperament. A gifted athlete in his youth, he played basketball and football under coach Tom Tipton at Sault Collegiate, where the Wildcats won the NOSSA championship in 1956. He was also a talented diver and a well-known figure in local baseball, spending many seasons behind the plate as a catcher for teams such as Bar & Strip and KS Dool. His second home was the North Street ball field, where he caught for the late Don Newman—some of his best years were spent there. He was known for his toughness and determination—a true throwback to a different time.
Special thanks to Sherry Bourck and Amanda Baker, his best PSW, for their devoted friendship and care. The family also extends their gratitude to the staff of the F.J. Davey Home – Driftwood Unit for their compassion.
At John’s request, the family will gather privately, and no public funeral service is planned.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).