John Patrick Canning Sr., of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 9, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Edward and Margaret Canning, John was the fifth of eight children in a close-knit Irish family.
John graduated from Father Judge High School in 1966 before serving his country in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970. After his service, he earned a degree from Trenton State College in 1976 and went on to dedicate 30 years to teaching special education at Burlington County Special Services School District. Throughout his career, he made a profound impact on the lives of his students, teaching building trades, developing a custodial maintenance program, and eventually serving as the “School to Work” coordinator.
In addition to his career in education, John spent his summers doing what he loved—operating a charter boat in Barnegat Light, New Jersey. An avid hunter and fisherman, he passed his love of the outdoors on to his children and grandchildren.
John was known for his quick wit, humor, and gift for storytelling. Whether recounting tales of his adventures or sharing family anecdotes, he had a knack for captivating his audience with his charm and comedic timing. He was also a master of unsolicited advice, always ready with a suggestion or solution.
John was married to the love of his life, Marilyn, for 55 beautiful years. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter. John is survived by his three children: John Patrick Jr., married to LeeAnn; Megan Patricia, married to Ty; and Jennifer Anne, engaged to John. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jasmine (Grant), John, Kaleigh, Caitlyn, Ryan, Addison, Grace, and Nessa.
John is survived by his siblings: Raymond (Anne), Thomas (Debbie), and Moira (Danny), as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and brothers-in-law, Walter and David (Linda) and sisters-in-law Kathleen, Esther, and Camille. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret; his siblings, Margaret, Catherine, Edward, and Joseph; his brother-in-law, Richard; his sister-in-law, Peg Wiley; his nephew, Thomas Grund; and his beloved Uncle Fred.
A celebration of life will take place Saturday, November 30, at Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Visitation with his family will begin at 10:00 A.M., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, and in honor of his granddaughters, the family requests donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Philadelphia or Good Shepherd Rehabilitation “pediatric unit” located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to support causes close to his heart.
John will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family and friends, his passion for the outdoors and his incredible generosity of spirit. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love.
Please leave a message of hope at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.
