Jono was born in New Delhi, India on November 12, 1943; he passed away on August 14, 2016 in Victoria. He was predeceased by his parents, Geoffrey and Margaret, and his brothers Anthony and Michael. He is survived by his twin sister Jane Crofton (Mark), brother Simon (Daphne), sister in law Joan in Washington DC and cousin Ann McCarthy (Pat). He was well loved by his nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.
Jono was educated in Victoria and he spent 38 years in the Canadian Coast Guard, serving on the West Coast and in Ottawa. Many of those who he worked with stayed in touch with him and speak very highly of him as a wonderful employer, associate and good friend. He made a positive difference in the lives of so many, he was a very special person. Jono enjoyed travelling, this usually included spending time visiting family and acquaintances. He loved telling stories and enjoyed reading history and kept himself up to date with local and world affairs. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and on numerous occasions, he was there to drive his great-nieces and great-nephews to their various activities – most often this included a stop for a treat of some sort. The past couple of years were difficult for him because of poor health. He was a resident at the Victorian and his last days were in Hospice where he was well looked after by a very caring staff.
There will be no funeral service at Jono’s request. Condolence may be offered below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
19 Responses
Jon was such a special person. As a champion of the Inshore Rescue Boat program, he helped so many young people develop their marine and leadership skills as well as pay for their education. I am forever grateful for the opportunity he gave me as the first female, not knowing until much later that he was only able to get my hire approved by shortening my name to Kim, making it look like I was male. Those were crazy times, filled with adventure, laughter and friendships that last a lifetime.
Jon cared about people and encouraged others to do the same. Thank you Jon, you will be missed.
With sincere condolences,
Kimberley Gilmour Nemrava and Jeffrey Nemrava
Jon – such a good friend for so many years. I first met him when applying for a job at Kitsilano Coast Guard Base as secretary to the “base commander”, Capt. Jack Ickringill. Jon and Capt. Jack were the only two on the interview board. Jon advised Capt. Jack to pick me, or so the story goes. There was only one other applicant. I had studied for the interview by reading the Boating Safety pamphlets.
And there began many years of friendship and hilarious stories … so many good times. How fortunate I was to be a part of them. Jon was like the linchpin of so much that went on. I smile every time I think of our going-ons. Through Jon, I became friends with many others of our Coast Guard family and we continue to be friends today, through good and not so good. Miss ya, Jon.
He was a great supporter of my husband and myself when we decided to move to Costa Rica in 2011. We Skyped once a week for several years until he became too ill to continue.
Jon was a first class person, and a good friend, who made a major contribution to the Canadian Coast Guard and his fellow Canadians. It was a privilege to be his friend.
I worked with Jon for 3 years, memorable years. Jon was a person you always enjoyed meeting and working with, positive, good humoured, proficient, a perfect example of an officer and gentleman. I like his many friends will miss him and extend my sympathy to his family.
Jon, was my watch partner when I was a young seamen on the CCGC READY. As a result of his organized way of thinking, Jon was soon working as the unofficial secretary to Capt R. Gunn. We had some great patrols together as shipmates. Although my time on the R class was short we remained good friends for the next 37 years as our paths would cross and we could share a laugh and a story. Jon had a great influence on many young people, and helped them get a start to their careers both within the CG and outside of the CG. He set a great example of how to manage, and lead.
My condolences to his family.
Dave Howell
Jon was one of those special people you meet along the way. In regard to his career in the Coast Guard he seemed to be the ideal guy for all his various roles he took on and became a mentor and guiding light to many. I think for the most part he had a very interesting and enjoyable life and it was sad the last couple of years were not. I am glad to have known him, considered him a friend and was always happy to see him.
Brian Tuomi
August 28, 2016
Goodbye Jon. It was such a pleasure working with you. The Coast Guard was a much better place from your efforts.
My sympathy to Jon’s family. It is so terribly sad and such a great loss. I’ll miss him and remember him fondly through all the good times we shared at Kits Base. He always had a smile. He was a great mentor, his words of wisdom and encouragement served me well over the years with CCG. I enjoyed his many visits to Vancouver to lunch with Paul, Di and myself. I will cherish his friendship forever.
I had the privilege and pleasure of knowing John for the many years that I was working the front desk at Victoria Coast Guard Base. He was always pleasant, friendly and helpful. He will be missed greatly. My condolonces to his family.