John E. Speed (cane man) passed away October 20, 2019 after a gallant fight with congestive heart failure. Born December 13, 1944 he was the son of the late Frank and Florence Speed. John grew up in Philmont and as a youngster worked with horses at area farms,,shoveled snow, mowed lawns and helped his father at his store. Later he would work at various garages including his cousin Skip Speed's Garage in Mellenville, Rich Shufelt's Body Shop and his good friend John Davis's Shop, Classic Plus. He enjoyed his time their with friends and Davis family members as they would chat up a storm.. He enjoyed old muscle cars from the 30's 40's 50's and 60's. He worked on those cars and painted them. He loved 50's and 60's music and driving on country roads in the morning and going to the Berkshire Mall. He is survived, at home, by his fiancé Jean H. Stoddard and his black cat Bogey. He leaves behind several cousins, nieces and nephews and first cousins Kipper and Robbie Speed. He was predeceased by his brother Frank Jr, a niece and a nephew. Graveside services will be conducted on Thursday Oct. 24th at 2pm at Mellenville Cemetery. To convey condolences visit frenchblasl.com.