(Alexander) John MAHAFFY

(Alexander) John Mahaffy

March 12, 1953 – January 22, 2026

In loving memory of John Mahaffy who passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, while walking the trails with Bobbie and Jojo, his and Dianne’s loyal Labradoodles. An unexpected cardiomyopathic arrest resulted in his sudden death at the age of 72. John was the devoted and caring husband of Dianne Piaskoski for 25 years and the loving brother of Mary Jane Spray (Martin) and Kaireen Morgan (Al). He was predeceased by parents Roy and Mary Mahaffy of Toronto. John’s passing will leave a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, especially extended family members and his many friends. He was kind, articulate, generous, and caring.

 John was born in Sudbury, Ontario, but lived most of his life in Toronto. In 2019, seeking a milder climate and to be closer to his sisters and their families in BC, he and Dianne moved to Saltair, a small community near Ladysmith on Vancouver Island. Well-educated and an avid reader, John’s favourite genre was philosophy, although he had recently started listening to the great classics while working out in the mornings. He loved having discussions on a variety of subjects, always providing insightful comments and opinions, but also listening well to what others had to say. Time spent with John was time well spent! He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched including the thousands of students he counselled at York University while serving as Senior Academic Advisor.

A beautiful life that came to an end, he died as he lived, everyone’s friend.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Victoria, BC, on Saturday, April 18 at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow the service.

Location: The Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens Funeral Home, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, British Columbia

No flowers please.

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