John Keeler

John William Keeler 71, of Carp Ontario. Passed away on September 4th in his sleep at the General Hospital in Ottawa Ontario. He was born on January 7th, 1951, in Toronto. Adopted by his parents Alvin and Audra. Keeler in Vernon Ontario.

Growing up with three siblings Bill Keeler, Julie, and Evelyn Keeler. John graduated from Osgood High School in 1969. Played competitive hockey until settling down with Valerie Flay. They had a son together, Trevor Flay. Eventually parting as young adults.

John married Deborah Keeler. Adopting her son Christopher Keeler and fathering two more sons Chadwick and Troy Keeler.

On weekends John would maintain his parent’s property in their retirement. His mother Audra shared her love of gardening with her son, and it grew on him.  John found peace in the garden. Visioning the vegetation from the roots. He viewed the landscape as interconnected, intricate, and full of beauty.

With a new love fueling his ambition. He set out to incorporate his passion into a career. John would achieve his goal by studying Horticulture & Landscape Design at Algonquin College. He proudly started his first business upon graduation, Timber Wolf Landscaping. Shortly after his success his parents would pass, and Deborah Keeler and John would separate.

John would rekindle a relationship with Deborah Plummer. High school sweet hearts, he adopted her daughter Kyla Plummer-Smith.

Staying true to his dream, he eventually evolved his company into Spirit Wolf Gardening. He spent his free time with family and friends. Visiting small towns, browsing the markets and antique shops in the area.

A caring father to his children, always lifting others up in life. Jovial in conversation, his laugh was infectious and bold. Principled yet stubborn, blessed with a heart three times the size. A grandfather to Hayden and Scarlett Smith.

He can be remembered as a breeze rustling the leaves, a beautiful sunset over snow covered trees, the new growth fighting through the soil unseen. A rebellious soul that lived, loved and laughed.

Gardeners make great lovers and mother nature will notice his absence.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday October 1st ,2022 at Tubman Funeral Homes – Garden Chapel, 3440 Richmond Rd at 11am. A reception will follow.

“If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.” -Alfred Lord Tennyson