Knox College, Canada

John Strung passes away; Knox College expresses condolences

Knox College has just learned that John Strung, husband of the Rev. Patricia Strung passed away on August 9, 2023.  John served as don in the residence over several years. He was known and respected by many theological students and others during his time at Knox. John loved being part of the Knox community. He maintained the many friendships cultivated at Knox for many years.

The following obituary appears on the Toronto Star Obituaries website:

It is with profound sadness that the family announces the death of John Strung on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. John died at home, as was his wish, with his wife, Trish, at his side. Born in Toronto to parents, Joseph and Theresa Strung, John received his education at several schools, graduating from University of Toronto Schools in 1964. His alma mater, the University of Toronto granted him an honours BSc in mathematics and physics, followed by a MSc in geophysics. Having not decided on a career path, John completed a BEd, but he quickly realized that teaching was not for him. He found his way to the University of Toronto Law School, where he completed his law degree in 1977. After his articles at Thompson Rogers, John was called to the Bar in 1978. He worked with the firm of Rogers, Rogers, Moore, which later merged with Osler, Hoskin, Harcourt. In 1994, John became a founding partner of Rogers, Moore, which later became Rogers Partners LLP, from which he retired. John was particularly astute with technology. Already in the 1980s, he recognised the enormous potential of implementing computer systems in law firms and even wrote programs to assist in the practise of law. During his study at U of T Law, he met and married Patricia “Trish” Presswell, who was studying Theology at Knox College, U of T, where John was a don in the residence. They had a whirlwind romance leading to their marriage in August 1975. They were blessed with three children, of whom they are extremely proud. Rebecca, Karen and Ian. They celebrated 48 years of marriage on August 2nd. After his retirement, John loved to hike in the Hamilton Conservation Area, particularly the Dundas Valley. He took great delight in introducing many friends to this beautiful area. His love of nature and architecture led him to hone his already fine skills in photography. He was a member of the Trillium Camera Club, where he was actively involved serving on its executive. His many beautiful photos can be seen on flickr. Photos of his travels abroad were many and breathtakingly beautiful. John’s love for his family was evident. During the many holidays spent in PEI, he taught his children and others to windsurf and to have a sense of awe for the night skies, where he demonstrated his knowledge of the constellations. He loved coaching his two daughters’ softball team. He was an avid Blue Jays fan, taking his kids to many games, as well as memorable events such as the Blue Jays victory parade in 1993. John had a brilliant mind, but never acted like he was above anyone. He was down-to-earth and humble, inspiring enduring love and respect from many. Go to the angels, my love, you will be deeply missed by Rebecca (Ryan), Karen (Ré), Ian (Karina); brother, Larry (Monica); sister-in-law, Bev Archer (Ron); and many nieces and nephews. Funeral arrangements are with Alternative Burial and Cremation: www.affordableburialandcremation.ca. A celebration of John’s life will take place in St. Paul’s United Church, 29 Park St. W., Dundas, ON L9H 1X3, on Thursday, August 17, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Join the family for a reception in the church hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations in John’s memory to Indwell (indwell.ca) or to the Hamilton Conservation Authority (conservationhamilton.ca).