John Brian was born on September 7, 1948 in Palmerston, Ontario to Robert Craig and Grace “Reta” Louisa (Williams) Nightingale. He was an only child and the Nightingale family soon moved to the Chesley area were John attended public and high school.
Following school, John began working for his dad. Nightingale Lumber was a lumber and coal company where John worked hand and hand with his father until his dad’s sudden death. During this time John met and eventually married Norma Friest, the year was 1970. Together they welcomed Wanda later that year, Wendy in 1972, Kim in 1974 and Chris in 1976. Sadly their union was not meant to be and they went their separate ways in 1978 whereby John moved to Owen Sound. He soon began working at Timber Mart and later moved on to Cashway. It was during this time that he met Sharon Sprung. The couple spent several years together before Sharon passed away suddenly.
In John’s spare time he enjoyed life as a drummer. In fact, he spent 55 plus years of his life involved with and participating in bands. He was probably best known for his involvement with the band, Notorious but was also a member of the Chesley Citizen’s Band for 42 years. John also enjoyed playing baseball in his youth, was involved with the Rotary Club and a train enthusiast. If it had anything to do with a train, John was definitely interested. To be honest John never really cared for anything new, but instead treasured anything that was aged. It could have been an old steam engine, an old car or an old movie, particularly Westerns. If it was old, John usually liked it.
On March 5, 1998 John offered one Vivian Davidson a ride home after a night out. As fate would have it they were meant to be and their relationship began to flourish. It was during this period that John enjoyed delivering phone books and newspapers within Owen Sound and area. His family joked that it was his love of back road drives that gave him the drive to take this job in the first place! John’s passion for driving also meant he was a huge stock car racing fan. In fact, on numerous occasions John drove to Flamboro or Sauble Speedway to watch races. John finished up his working career with Home & Community Services in Owen Sound.
John also loved his pets. Did he have a favourite? I’d say “no” but if he or Vivian wanted or saw something they liked they got it. Over the years he owned dogs, cats, bunnies, fish, finches, budgies and a love bird, just to name a few! He loved the colour purple, enjoyed the TV show MASH and had an eclectic taste in music. When it came to food, John had a definite sweet tooth and a particular fondness for chocolate milk.
John was a kind, gentle man, who was known to be a little stubborn at times. 🙂 He was very much family oriented, had a good sense of humour, often being referred to as a “smart ass” or “joker.” He was easy going, laid back and would help out anyone if he was able. All of these traits and characteristics have been passed back to his children and grandchildren in one way or another.
In 2014, Vivian and John relocated to Chesley, after spending the previous 35 years in Owen Sound. Sadly, here John’s health began to decline. To be honest, he never let his health issues keep him down and he made the best of every day. Unfortunately, John passed away at South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Chesley on Saturday, May 26, 2018 in his 70th year.
Beloved companion and best friend of Vivian Davidson. Cherished father of Wanda (Troy) Landry of Guelph, Wendy Dennie, Kim Nightingale both of Hanover and Chris Nightingale of Guelph. John will be sadly missed by his grandchildren Lisa, Alyssa, Jessica, Danielle, Jennifer, Courtney, Dylan and their families. He will be fondly remembered by Vivian’s children, William, Kelly, Justin, Adam, Stephen and their families. John was predeceased by his parents Craig and Reta (Williams) Nightingale
At John’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no further services
Memorial donations to The War Amps or Diabetes Canada would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
