Obituary of John Michael Cusolito

CUSOLITO, John Michael February 9, 1944 - April 8, 2013 Born in St. Joseph’s Hospital, London, ON, to Gerald and Vivian (nee Cox) Cusolito. Died peacefully in University Hospital, London, ON, April 8, 2013 after a lengthy illness bravely born. John was a lifelong and proud Londoner. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted, loving and beloved wife of 28 years Heather Locking-Cusolito, his sister Robin Gorman of Sherwood Park, AB, and his cousins Ross, Alan and Shirley Templain of Port Colborne, ON. He was predeceased by his parents and by his stepmother Margaret Cusolito. John was blessed with a capacity for friendship. His loyal friends, many of whom he has known since public school, have been a constant and steadfast presence in his life particularly in the last twelve weeks. He was tremendously appreciative of their support. John attended London Teachers College and the University of Western Ontario and taught public school in Middlesex County, before beginning a career in sales, first with Fitzhenry and Whiteside Publishing and later with Abbott Laboratories and Organon Teknica. Aside from his career, John had many interests. He loved the outdoors and cottage life, first on Lake Huron near Bayfield and later on the Bruce Peninsula on Colpoy Bay. He enjoyed the calm serenity of fishing. He loved travel, particularly visiting National Parks throughout Canada and the US. He was fond of both the arid American Southwest and, in contrast, the misty coasts of Newfoundland and visited them both many times. He was a skilled and talented photographer. He was active in Neighbourhood Watch London for several years and held the position of Chair from 1999-2002. He loved all kinds of sports but was, first and foremost, a passionate fan of Canadian football and a longstanding season ticket holder at Western Mustangs football games. He was a dedicated walker who daily walked six kilometres in rain, snow or shine until illness overtook him. He lived cheerfully, constructively and courageously with several complex medical problems for many years. Most importantly he loved his family and friends, loved being of service to them and continued to offer them strength and support even while he was facing tremendous challenges. In John’s lexicon a day spent with friends was a day worth living. He will be missed. Visitation will be held at First-St. Andrew’s United Church, 350 Queens Avenue (at Waterloo), London, ON, on Saturday, April 13, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. immediately preceding a Service of Celebration in the sanctuary at 11 a.m. Reception to follow in Proudfoot Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to First-St. Andrew’s United Church or the charity of your choice would be acknowledged with thanks by his family.