KARKRUFF, John Norman – Died peacefully Feb 2, 2023 at SHN – Centenary Hospital. At 89 years young, Norm was comforted by his children Michele, Glenn and Craig. Norm was beloved husband of 42 years to deceased wife Gail. Loving Dad to Michele (Dan), Craig and Glenn (Carol). He will always be cherished Grandpa to Tyler, Andrew and Morgen Karkruff and Cassandra. Norm’s humour and love of sports will be missed by all that had the joy of being with him. His talent & passion as a master jazz pianist was only surpassed by his love for his family.

We invite you to join us on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 9:00 am for visitation at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home, 4115 Lawrence Ave East, West Hill, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Highland Creek, 200 Morrish Road, Scarborough. Following Mass there will be a burial taking place at Resurrection Cemetery, 355 Taunton Rd E, Whitby. All are welcome to join the family back at St. Joseph’s Church after the burial for some refreshments, where we can celebrate Norm’s life and share memories.

For those who wish, donations in memory of Norm may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
To our Dad;

You were the strongest person we have ever known. You never complained even when you were in pain. You never looked for sympathy or wanted to be a burden in any way.
You were an amazing father, friend, husband, cousin, and best friend. You were loved by so many people.

Your kindness and compassion for people that became part of your family throughout our lives was something to behold. You and mom always put an extra plate at our table for anyone that needed it.
Your love for your family through good and hard times was unwavering. You were a great leader even when you lost your loving wife Gail who was always by your side.

As a musician he played evenings and weekends throughout our childhood. He belonged to The Ron Bagnatti band and spent numerous sessions playing at Cleveland House – Muskoka and the bandstand at Centre Island throughout our childhood. It was a family affair and we would enjoy the facilities while listening to him play. Glenn recalls many times when he had to hold Dad’s sheet music so wind wouldn’t blow it away in the outdoor amphitheatre! Good times and great memories.

Though not a Master pianist like Dad, music is a big part of our lives and continues to be very important to us and his grandsons.

Dad tried to spend as much time with his sons and grandsons. With Craig and Glenn – Norm volunteered as team manger and participated in their baseball, and hockey teams whether as coach, manager, chauffeur or mentor – Dad was there. For Michele, he would get up in the early hours of the morning to make sure she had help delivering her Globe and Mail route. Norm also enjoyed attending all 3 of his grandson’s hockey, soccer and baseball games. Win or lose Norm was always a supportive advocate to the boys!

Aside from sports and music, Dad was a sucker for a good meal and enjoyed family dinners at Glenn’s in particular he liked a good backyard BBQ. He would chat up his grandsons’ – Tyler, Andrew and Morgen or they would watch one of his favourite sports teams – Blue Jays, Raptors or Leafs! Norm’s knowledge of the players and stats was always impressive!

Thank you for the lessons you taught us all. The laughs along the way and there were many. You will be missed more than we can ever put in words.

We’re so honoured to be your children and we will be forever grateful to have had you for 89 wonderful years.

You don’t have to be strong any more dad. Rest with mom as we know you will always be with us.

Love Michele, Craig and Glenn