John Cousins

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of John Cousins of Brussels. He passed away at Wingham and District Hospital on Thursday, June 12, 2025 in his 83rd year.

 

The devoted husband of Merle (Fitch) Cousins for 64 years, John was the loving dad of Doug and Sheila Cousins of Guelph, Ken “Fred” and Sheila Cousins of Brussels and Gwen and Todd Poyntz of St. Thomas.

 

He was the cherished Papa of Brandon and Brittany Cousins, Jordyn Cousins and Mitchell Despinic, Pam and Jeff Hinz, Michelle and Tyler Gloor, Rachel and Cullen Hackett, Adam Cousins and Jordan Lenz, Katelyn and Jordan Thiessen and Hillary Poyntz and Tyler Thiessen. John was also the special great-grandpa of Reid Cousins, Nixon and Darcy Hinz, Kaden, Kayley and Nolan Gloor, Mason and Gavin Hackett and Bensen Thiessen.

 

John was the dear brother of Lawrie Cousins and Betty Campbell. He was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Elma Cousins, and brother George Cousins.

 

He will be missed by many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

 

John was raised in Brussels and made it his home for his entire life. In 1960, he married Merle (Fitch) and together they lovingly raised their family of three: Doug, Ken (Fred) and Gwen. As a young man, John worked at the family business, Cousins Creamery, until it closed in 1973. 

 

In the years that followed, John attended college to study business and then explored his entrepreneurial spirit by opening Cousins Home Hardware on main street, which served the Brussels community for seven years. In the time that followed, John spent 34 years as an employee of the LCBO and safely drove hundreds of students to and from school as a bus driver for 30 years. 

 

John will be lovingly remembered for his love of music, his hands that could fix anything, and the way he made everyone feel at home - we are forever grateful for the time we had and the love he gave so freely.

 

A private family burial will be held at Brussels Cemetery. A public celebration of John’s life will be held on June 23 from 1-3 p.m. at the Brussels Legion.

 

Rest peacefully, dear Dad and Papa. Your song will play on in our hearts forever.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Wingham and District Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family. 

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham. 

 

Online condolences can be left at mcburneyfuneralhome.com.