John Paul Arruda

It is with love and profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of John Paul Arruda on December 25, 2025, at home, surrounded by his wife and children.

For ten years, John fought a long and courageous battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). In accordance with his wishes, he remained at home through the entire journey in the devoted and loving care of his wife Dana.

John leaves behind his soulmate and devoted wife of 25 years, Dana Arruda (née Lake), and his children Steven Arruda (Sharon), Tyson Sangster (Caitlin), Evan Sangster, and Hannah Sangster. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Cassadie, Tyson, Maralise, Evalyn, and recent arrival Addison.

John is reunited in heaven with his parents Paul Arruda and Maria Conceicao Arruda.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Frank (Debbie), Filomena (Fernando), Fatima (Steve) and Gus (Gail), as well as by his parents-in-law Gary and Shirley Lake, his brother-in-law Joby Lake (Laura), and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

John will be fondly remembered for his deep love of animals, including his 30-year career as a zookeeper in the Australasian Pavilion at the Toronto Zoo. He was passionate about his many hobbies and interests including music, especially New Wave, and sports, where he was a longtime fan of golf, the Toronto Blue Jays and the Portuguese National Football Team. Above all, John was a devoted family man whose greatest priority was always the well-being of his family.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all of the medical professionals who supported John and made it possible for him to remain at home, especially during his final weeks. A special thank you is extended to NP Karen Corcoran; RNs Sydney and Mackayla; and PSWs Sam, Neely and Sim, for their compassionate care.

In accordance with John’s wishes, a cremation has taken place.

John’s family would like to invite all family and friends to a Celebration of Life to be held on Sunday January 25th, 2026, from 1 to 4 PM at the Lindsay Golf and Country Club, 282 Lindsay Street South, Lindsay, Ontario. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to KLAWS, an animal rescue and welfare charity that was near and dear to John’s heart.