John Wilcox

Captain

Department: Barrie Fire and Emergency Service
Location: Barrie, ON
Employment: Career (Full Time)
Date of Death: November 23, 2023
Date of Birth: March 31, 1954
Age at Death: 69
Memorial Panel: 18

Story

Captain John Wilcox
Barrie Fire & Emergency Services, ON

John began his firefighter career on the Simcoe County Rescue Squad while volunteering for the Town of Innisfil Fire Department before joining the North York Fire Department for 2 years as a full-time member. In 1990 John was hired by Barrie Fire and Emergency Services where 5 years later he was promoted to Captain and then continued his career there until he retired in 2014.

John shared his passion for firefighting to the students of Georgian College’s Pre-Service Firefighting Program for 20 years, specializing in and lifting the auto-extrication course off the ground. After inspiring multitudes of future firefighters, he stepped down from his teaching position in June of 2023.

John wore many hats throughout his life; he was the kind of guy who would try almost anything he could get his hands on. He was an avid Beekeeper for 18 years and was always ready to deliver a lesson on bees to anyone who would listen. He was also an exceptionally skilled trumpeter, beginning at the young age of 10, he continued to have many notable moments in his music journey including playing in the Georgetown Citizen Band at the age of 12, playing The Last Post at Remembrance Day services, being part of the cover band Station House for 12 years, and eventually joining the Barrie Concert Band.

John passed away peacefully on November 23^rd, 2023 at the age of 69 as a result of occupational cancer. His contagious laughter, can do attitude, and quick wit is greatly by his family, friends, colleagues, and students.