November 3, 1941 – February 17, 2021
With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John Winston Cornell, who was 84 years old. He left us on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre after battling a long illness.
Winston was born in Port Arthur on November 3, 1941. He proudly belonged to Fort William First Nation and received his education locally. He dedicated many years to working with the City of Thunder Bay Parks Department. In August of 1960, he married Carol Bannon and together they created a wonderful family life. Winston had a special fondness for animals, particularly dogs and cats. He enjoyed playing Bingo, watching baseball games and following every hockey match he could find regardless of the league. A devoted Toronto Maple Leafs fan, he cherished attending games with his wife and kids. In his younger years, he showcased his talent as a carver; some of his totem poles can still be seen in the area today. Gardening brought him joy too; he and Carol cultivated beautiful flower gardens along with delicious vegetables. His Catholic Faith held great significance for him as well; over time he attended services at St. Agnes and St. Anne’s Parishes.
Family truly meant everything to Winston. He worked tirelessly to ensure their needs were met and took pride in all his efforts – cutting corners was never an option for him. Each one of his children and grandchildren filled him with pride; he was a loyal husband to Carol throughout their marriage. Known for his kind heart and gentle spirit, he was quiet but fiercely protective of those close to him. A true friend to many, he’ll be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. The cherished memories we hold will always stay in our hearts.
Winston is survived by his loving wife Carol; children Joyce Pelletier (Marvin), Sandra Cornell-Mc Laren (Farley), Darryl Cornell and John Cornell; grandchildren Jay (Jenna), Brandon (Brooke), Robin (Lenn), Brittany, Samantha, Andrea (Nick), Kylie, Johnny, Joshua, Georjann; great-grandchildren Parker, Logan, Noah, Felix, Nikolai, Animkii, Natalie-Jean, Lennie, Lennox , Khloe , Wyatt , Cameron , Caleb , Levi, Maddie , Isabella , Antonio , Isaiah , Elijah, and Gabriel. Numerous nieces, n nephews, in-laws, and cousins also survive him.
He is preceded in death by his mother Charlotte Cornell; grandson Robert Cornell; granddaughter Jennifer Cornell; special great-granddaughter Caleigh; along with extended family members.
The Funeral Services for Winston Cornell will take place on Monday February 23rd ,2026. Family and friends are invited to gather at St. Anne ‘s Roman Catholic Church for the Funeral Mass at 2:00 pm where Father Biju Mathew will celebrate along with Father James Panikulam as concelebrant. Interment will follow at FWFN Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Visitation will occur in the church Sunday evening from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm featuring Vigil Prayers offered at7 :00pm.
If friends wish to make contributions in Winston’s memory, the Heart & ; Stroke Foundation of Canada or the Canadian Kidney Foundation would greatly appreciate it.
The Westfort Chapel located at420 West Gore Streetat James has taken chargeof arrangements.
Please sign online condolences at everestofthunderbay. com.
