John Kersnik Sr. passed from this life at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital in Bracebridge on January 13, 2008. He was in his 68th year.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife Margareta Kersnik (née Sajovic) on November 26, 2007. He was also predeceased by his parents Anton Kersnik and Maria Kersnik (née Kokal).

He was the beloved brother to Marjan, Jose, Ignac and Mitska. He was predeceased by his brothers Toni, Frank and Ludvig.

John and Margareta were married in Toronto on October 16, 1963. They had two sons. John A. Kersnik Jr. and Boris Kersnik both reside in Gravenhurst.

John was the beloved grandfather to Lilianna Frances Kersnik and Dylan Jesse McKee.

During his early years, John grew up on a farm in the mountains of Slovenija where he learned from others the daily routine of running and working a farm and the land. Once John moved to Toronto, he worked for 27 years as a butcher at Maple Leaf Foods on St. Clair Avenue in Weston. After retiring from Maple Leaf Foods at just 55 years of age, he and Margareta moved to Gravenhurst, where they have lived for the past 12 years.

During his retirement years, John was able to expand on his passions of building, gardening and landscaping. He loved Muskoka, loved being with his family and being able to enjoy the great outdoor activities that Muskoka has to offer.

A funeral service was held in the W.J. Cavill Funeral Home chapel on January 19, 2008 with Father Ron Meyer officiating. Spring interment will take place at Mickle Memorial Cemetery. In memory, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.