Obituaries

After a lifetime of service and gratitude, Dr. Ivan William Nancekievill, passed into eternal rest in his 91st year on March 12, 2024.

Born on a farm near Woodville, ON, Ivan had an early aptitude and hunger for knowledge. He often stayed up late to secretly read the encyclopedia by a light that shone through a crack in the staircase.

He continued his education, supported by his aunts, Florence and Frances, eventually becoming a doctor and starting a family practice in Cannington, ON. He practiced in Cannington for 40 years and completed his medical career with a final 10 years as surgical assistant at Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay.

His faith was very personal and real. He was deeply committed to his local church and community, as well as Gideons and medical missions, spending time helping in a hospital in Egbe Nigeria, Africa.

At the age of 40, Ivan moved his family to Cedarvale Farm, Cannington, where he raised Hereford cattle, sheep and chickens and kept a huge vegetable garden that brought him much joy and an abundance of produce along with many early mornings weeding and harvesting.

Always interested in learning, he felt fortunate to be able to explore many locations around the world.

Grieving his loss and grateful for his love are his wife Elaine, daughters Anne (Steve Blanchard) and Ruth (Todd McDonald) and his grandchildren Ian (Viv), Rue, Scott (Madi) and Dane as well as Brent Clark (Katrien and daughters Mary, Joanna and Amy), his former herdsman and dear friend.

Ivan is lovingly remembered by his siblings Doris, Garry (Barbie), and Helen (Brian), predeceased by Ray (Flora) and Glen.

His heart was committed to Elaine for 64 years and also to Anne and Ruth. He never ended a conversation with his girls without expressing his thanks and saying “remember I love you.”

When he moved to Grove Park Home, Barrie in 2023 he started a tradition of expressing gratitude to his caregivers through announcements and cards. Continuing in this tradition, his family offers their thanks to Grove Park staff for their outstanding and compassionate care.

Dad, we miss your beautiful smile and how you held our hands when they were cold.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 130 pm, Adams Funeral Home, Barrie. Those wishing to attend through live stream need to register through the Adams Funeral Home online obituary to receive your link. Visitation with the family from 1230 -130 pm. Reception to follow the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the ALS Society, Fairview Baptist Church, Lindsay or Grove Park Home, Barrie. More information regarding donations is available through Adams Funeral Home, Barrie.