Obituary of John Denner

John C. Denner

Mount Royal, Montréal – Glen Norman, Ontario

Born in the Town of Mount Royal in Montréal, John C. Denner travelled widely before settling in Glen Norman, Ontario, where he made his home on a farm for more than 50 years. Known by many throughout Glengarry, John also maintained close connections around the world with those who shared his passion for collecting and preserving history.

In the world of antique arms collecting, few personalities were as unmistakable as John’s. He was known for his strong opinions, deep historical knowledge, and he never felt the need to keep either to himself. Through his mail-order firearms business, he built one of the larger operations of its kind in Canada and became a recognized expert in the field. John served as a consultant to the Canadian War Museum and other organizations, and his collection of Canadian military memorabilia was among the largest privately held collections in the country. Alongside an extensive reference library—much of which he had committed to memory—his interests also included playing polo and a lifelong appreciation for history and the arts.

John’s passion for military history led to a close association with the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders. He served as Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel during preparations for the regiment’s 150th anniversary in 2018. As part of those celebrations, John travelled to Buckingham Palace, where he met Queen Elizabeth II and, on behalf of the regiment, presented her with a gold and diamond brooch inspired by the regiment’s cap badge.

John approached life much as he approached his trade—directly, energetically, and without concern fordoing things quietly. Larger than life, he left a strong impression on everyone he met, whether they agreed with him or not.

He is survived by those who knew him first and best. John was the beloved husband of Sheila (“Sam”), a devoted father to Sarah and Rachel, and a proud grandfather to Cassie, Rio, Levitt, and Llewyn. He was the son of Pearl and Jack, an only child, and is also survived by his cousin, Mary Lynn Barker.

John leaves behind friends, fellow collectors, and historic arms now held in collections across the world—each piece part of the long trail of objects, debates, discoveries, and stories that followed him wherever he went.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of John Denner, who passed away on October 15th, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 9th from 1–4 pm at the Glengarry Funeral Home (580 Main Street South, Alexandria, Ontario).

We’ll have light snacks and drinks available as we share memories and look back on his life together. This will be an informal gathering, and anyone who wishes to share a story or memory of John is warmly welcome to do so.

As the celebration is being hosted in Alexandria and only for the afternoon, we understand that many of you may be unable to attend. If you’d like, please feel free to send a short message or video for us to share during the gathering.

Rachel, our families, and I will be flying in from Calgary and will only be in town for the day. Please note that we won’t be able to take any flowers home with us. If you would like to contribute something in John’s honour, a donation to the SPCA or to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada in his name would be deeply appreciated.

We’re grateful for the chance to come together and look forward to seeing everyone who can join us.

All who knew John are welcome.