As the Adams + Miles team gets set to celebrate our firm’s centennial, we want to take a moment to recognize another important, yet bittersweet, milestone: the retirement of our long-time Partner and friend John P. Seychuk.
John’s remarkable 41-year career began in September 1984—a very different time in Canada, in business and in our profession. Brian Mulroney had just been elected Prime Minister. Wayne Gretzky and the Edmonton Oilers had won their first Stanley Cup that spring. And the Toronto Maple Leafs, as John often reminds us with a wry smile, hadn’t won anything since 1967. Some things never change.
The accounting world John entered back then bears little resemblance to the one we know today. When he started his career at Allen & Miles—as our firm was then named—there were no laptops, no smartphones and no cloud-based software. As John recalls, the mainframe computer that powered our primitive desktop devices was bigger than his office. Client files were almost entirely paper-based, built on large, fold-out 14-column paper ledgers, complete with account numbers, descriptions, opening balances, debits, credits and final totals. Adjustments were made with a pencil and eraser. Early computers, when they eventually arrived, were used almost exclusively for personal tax returns. It was a hands-on, meticulous and deeply foundational way to learn the profession—and John mastered it.
After several years at Allen & Miles, John later joined a small GTA public accounting firm, where he became a partner. While that firm explored merger discussions with a larger practice, fate—and a familiar connection—intervened. John reconnected with a partner who encouraged him to return. In 2001, John did exactly that, rejoining the firm that had shaped his early career.
Seven years later, Allen & Miles merged with Adams Masin & Tilley and officially became the Adams + Miles we know today. John was already an integral part of the partnership group and played a steadying role through that transition, helping preserve the firm’s culture while embracing change.
Like many partners of his generation, John’s role evolved naturally over time. Early in his partnership, he functioned much like a senior manager, deeply involved in client files, hands-on with technical work, and immersed in day-to-day engagements. Over time, that role shifted toward oversight, supervision, review and client relationship management, where his calm judgment and practical insight truly shone.
John became a trusted advisor to many of our longest-standing clients, some of whom have been with the firm for decades—a handful for generations.
When I think about John’s legacy, I don’t merely think about the many files he managed or his outstanding work—I think about his connection to people. John often speaks about the older partners who mentored him early in his career, and the leadership they demonstrated when he was learning the profession. Over time, John became a mentor himself—guiding partners and managers, including those now assuming significant client relationships, such as Partner Andrew McConnell. John’s always encouraged our younger professionals to take on challenges, trusting that the rewards—personal, professional and financial—would far outweigh the difficulties along the way.
Over the years, he worked alongside exceptional teammates and partners, and has said many times that it’s the interaction with colleagues and clients that he’ll miss most. That sentiment speaks volumes about who John is, including his deep respect for the work of the several managing partners that led the firm throughout his career. I want to personally thank him for that generosity. Leadership is never a solo effort, and John’s support and perspective have always been valued.
As he steps into retirement, John does so with characteristic thoughtfulness. Client relationships have been carefully transitioned to other partners, ensuring continuity and care. While John will remain available for consultation when needed, the next chapter belongs firmly to the team he helped build.
When one of John’s retired golf partners learned of his plans, he offered a simple insight: one of the best parts of retirement, he said, is waking up on Monday knowing you don’t have to go to work. John smiles when he tells that story—and I know he’s looking forward to many Monday mornings on the golf course.
So, on behalf of all of us at Adams + Miles, John, we’d like to offer our sincere gratitude—for your 41 years of service, your integrity, your leadership and generosity with both knowledge and time. Thank you for helping this firm navigate change while staying grounded in its values. And thank you for the example you’ve set for our team.
Your legacy is woven into the fabric of Adams + Miles, and it will continue long after your final day in the office. We wish you health, happiness and many well-earned Monday mornings ahead.
Tony Sokic, Managing Partner
For assistance with your tax, accounting, advisory and assurance needs, contact a member of the Adams + Miles team today.
