Obituary of John Marshall SAVAGE

July 7, 1949 - August 9, 2024

Born July 7th, 1949 in Toronto, Ontario to Sunny and Rocky. 

Departed Earth too soon for parts unknown on Friday, August 9th, 2024.

He'll be deeply missed by his mother Sunny Savage, aunt Wendy van Buskirk, sister Judy Hosier (Jerry), brother Paul Savage, (Tamara), cousins Kathy, Sandy, Robin, Bruce and Jim, daughter Zoe, and nieces and nephews Laura, Greg, Amy, Eric and Kali.

Educated in the "school of hard knocks and sweet rewards". John was employed as a drummer, keyboard player, singer and multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire. He was also employed at times as a stained-glass artist, graphic artist, painter, all around handyman and a chimney sweep!

(Cue:  Chim Chim Cher-ee).

Not only was he a true Jack-of-all-trades, but he was also a master at most things he set his mind to.

John was ever the philosopher, educator and mentor, song writer, humorist, movie buff and voracious reader, (and not the easy stuff), all loving pastimes. Yet, somehow, he always found time for everyone, anywhere, anytime.

Founding member of the band Simon Caine, he recorded and performed with Bruce Cockburn, Tom Rush, David Wilcox, Morgan Davis, The Dropouts, The Cobblers, Peter and the Heaters, Chester, Gary O, Mad Dogs and Englishmen, Steam, Mad Hatterz Band and The Rocky Horror Picture Show Live among many more.

Just some of his own compositions can be heard at:  johnsavage1.bandcamp.com or use the QR code in his photo in the memories section.

In music, as in life, he was first a drummer at heart. Out of the spotlight, in the background, keeping the beat and everybody together. He summed up his musical career simply as a "drummer of note, singer/songwriter of many notes".

He will forever keep a steady and perfect beat in our hearts, and new ones, with time always, for a few extra beats more.

Survived by countless friends and musical friends, no doubt there will be many a "Last Waltz" gig in his honour, and lasting cherished memory.

In lieu of flowers, John has asked that donations of time or funds be sent to Matthews House Hospice in Alliston, Ontario.

Online condolences can be made at www.imfunerals.com

In Memoriam Funeral Services Inc. has been given the honour to serve the Savage Family.