Powerlifting Coach John Bourgoin Dies at 80, Leaving Wife and Son Behind!

September 23, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 23, 2026

John Guy Bourgoin, a beloved powerlifting coach, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at Caressant Care in Woodstock, Ontario, at the age of 80.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bourgoin, his son, John Bourgoin, and his daughter-in-law, Kim.

John was a proud grandfather to Alyssa and Ryan and a caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Likewise, he leaves behind a lifelong friend, Billy O’Neil, who had his back at all times.

For 35 years, John worked at Standard Tube in Woodstock; however, he discovered his true passion in sports, particularly powerlifting.

Besides powerlifting, he also enjoyed baseball, hockey, and broomball.

John was a remarkable athlete, winning multiple tournaments, including the Pan American Games, and competing in the Olympic trials for Canada.

In powerlifting, he became a multi-time Canadian champion, set national records, and earned a podium finish at the World Championships.

Following his demise, Shaun Roach, one of his friends, took to his Facebook to recall their first meeting in February 1999 at the Pumphouse gym in Woodstock.

At the time, John was in his early 50s. He amazed Shaun by squatting 405 pounds (4×45-pound plates on each side of the bar) 10 times.

Shaun praised John’s first impression in the post, writing:

This little “old guy” John was early 50’s got under the bar and I thought this little guy was going to get killed 😂. He squatted it 10 times at a body weight of 165 pounds 🤯🤯🤯. My jaw dropped to the ground and I knew I was in the right place.

John mentored and trained Shaun, who competed across Ontario and traveled with him to Winnipeg for the national championships. They trained together for 16 to 17 years, sharing countless adventures.

Beyond the gym, John loved riding his Honda Goldwing motorcycle, taking long and scenic rides.

John’s life will be celebrated at a memorial event at Unifor Hall Local 636 in Woodstock on October 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Whereas, Cremation has already taken place.

Likewise, his family expressed their gratitude to the staff at Caressant Care for their exceptional care and to Dr. Vu for their compassionate support during John’s time there.

During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of John’s wife, son, friends, and extended family.

Rest Easy, Coach John Bourgoin!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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