Obituary of John Richard Burrows

Burrows, (John) Richard (February 9, 1956 - August 3, 2025)

Although he beat lymphoma in 2012, Richard was unable to overcome cancer again and passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025 at Sunnybrook Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Cherished husband of Theresa for 39 years. Son of the late John and Glenna, nee Cryderman, and son-in-law of the late Perry and Colly Cavalluzzo. Loved brother of Joe and Lori. Dear brother-in-law of Paula and Frank Colicchia, Carmela DiStasi, and Michelle and Steve Agnew.

Richard will be sadly missed by his extended family (especially his nieces and nephews), friends, neighbours, and customers (especially Gendi Nation).

Richard grew up in Keswick as the oldest Cryderman grandchild. He spent many happy days at his father’s hardware store, and he would later play junior hockey for the South Shore Rangers.

Richard met Theresa at her parent’s cottage on Lake Simcoe. They were married in 1986 and started their life in Markham. They enjoyed cruising, especially to Hawaii and the Panama Canal. Celebrations with family and friends, most notably Christmases in NOTL, held a special place in his heart.

Richard enjoyed working outdoors as evidenced by his employment history-landscaping, Ram Forest Products, and York Region Transportation Department, where he worked for 34 years. He approached his work with dedication, even when it tested his patience, as it often did. His “Region Stories” were legendary. After his well-deserved retirement in 2021, he continued his part-time landscaping business, which brought him great satisfaction.

A special thank you to York Region paramedics, Rachel and Natalie, who made his final trip to Sunnybrook possible. You are angels and Richard was so grateful.

Thank you to the wonderful doctors and nurses at Sunnybrook. Dr. Amy Nolen, your kindness, compassion and caring was phenomenal and made Richard’s transition to palliative care a smooth one.

Family and friends are invited to visit between 2-4 pm on August 6, 2025 at the Dixon Garland Funeral Home in Markham. A private family service will be held.

Richard chose to give the gift of hope through organ and tissue donation. In keeping with Richard’s giving spirit, donations to Sunnybrook Hospital would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.