Obituary of John Hyatt

Harry “John” Hyatt

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Dr. John Hyatt on Sunday, December 8th at Pioneer Elder Care in his 80th year. Husband, Father, Grandpa to many, Surgeon, Music Lover, Animal Saver, Coffee Drinker, and Champion for the Suffering.

John led his life - heart first. It was the only way he knew how. It was this precious quality that drew him away from the Hyatt London Lumber business and put him on the path towards medicine. He attended UWO Med school and graduated in the class of 1964, while raising a young family in London, ON.

After his residency, he landed in St. Catharines Ontario, and set up his practice as both a General and Vascular Surgeon. John cared deeply for all of his patients as well as his colleagues at the hospital. He served as President of Staff, followed by Chief of Staff at the St. Catharines General Hospital. Throughout his work, John was known for his steady hands and generosity of spirit. He was quite proud to have his oldest son Peter become a family doctor in St. Catharines and have him assist in some of his surgeries.

John is survived by his wife Lynne, who has been his caregiver, his stabilizer, for over 48 years. He loved and cherished her deeply. He is also survived by his sister Anne Sinclair. Predeceased by his sister Ruth Hyatt. Beloved father to Peter (Andrea), Paul (Kelly), Thomas, Sheila (Dan), Lisa (Steve) and Kelly (Joel). Loving grandfather to Emma (Eoghan), Stephanie, Paige (Grant), Dan (Rebekka), Abby, Michelle, Scott, Erin, Allison, Jeff, Celia, Tessa, Lily and Ben. Great grandpa to Max.

John often sat in awe that he was the creator of all this (mostly) loud and big -hearted clan.

When he wasn’t working, John loved listening to music. He played the saxophone and could play any song on the piano by ear. From Kermit the Frog to Placido Domingo, many songs would seep into neighbours sleeping subconscious as they were often played on repeat into the wee hours of the night.

Around the holidays, he could often be found handing out money outside the mission. Throughout his life he always had a hand to give, an ear to listen.

These past years, Alzheimer’s may have stolen his words, but his heart remained. The staff at Eldercare has been such a gift to our family. There he was allowed to live with dignity surrounded by love while we could slowly say goodbye.

Visitation Saturday December 14 from 2 to 4 pm at Tallman Funeral Home, 3277 King St. Vineland and funeral December 15 at 1pm.

Please join us as we celebrate his life at 12 Woodington Crescent, St. Catharines following funeral at 4pm.