1952 - 1989

A Family Remembers:

John was born in Toronto on May 27, 1952 and began his hockey career at the age of three on the backyard rink. He was first coached by his father Charles Cerre who also coached such greats as Tim Horton, Dick Duff, and Frank Mahovlich during their years at St. Michaels Collegiate.

John attended St. Michaels Collegiate from 1966 - 1971 and excelled on the Bantam, Junior, juvenile and Jr. "B" Buzzers' teams. He also played for the All Star St. Mikes Junior "B" Buzzers during the 1971 and 1972 seasons.

John continued his studies and hockey career at Queens University where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts and starred on the Golden Gaels hockey club for 5 seasons.
John chose to make Kingston his home and was employed by Pitney Bowes from 1979 to 1985. he subsequently joined Motorola Canada in 1985 and was promoted to Area Sales Manager in 1988.

John was diagnosed with Cancer in 1986 but his determination, sense of humor and amazing strength carried him, his family and many friends through his illness until his death on June 7, 1989. He was a very special person who touched the lives of many and brought love and laughter to those who knew him.
John is lovingly remembered by his wife Paula and their three daughters, Catlin, Bridget and Rachel all of whom share his love for the great game of hockey …Paula.

From a Friend and Teammate:

I met John in 1977-78 with the Napanee Comets and we played together for two seasons, finishing in 1979. In 1979-80 we played in the Miller League for Revell's. John finished playing his hockey with the Cataraqui Oldtimers, which at the time was a very good team with many ex-pro's. John played a lot of other sports besides hockey such as tennis, golf, and loved to drink beer. …Kirk Twigg, Kingston Oldtimers Hockey referee.