It is with the deepest burden of sorrow that we have to announce the loss of the pillar of our family on December 21, 2020. After a tragic work place incident, John gave it everything he had and fought bravely for 3 weeks in Vancouver General Hospital, finally succumbing to his traumatic injuries. John was born and raised in Victoria on June 28, 1956.
He eventually would marry his high school sweetheart and best friend, Lesley, and after 42 years of marriage they were both very proud of the family they had created. John (Dad) says goodbye to Lesley, his sons J.R. (Kate), and Robbie (Patti) and their son, his beloved grandson whom he cherished, Brooks. As much focus John put into his work, his true passion was his Family and being a true provider and role model, always committing to “doing better than his best.”
As in life and career, with most people that knew him, John was known for his work ethic and attention to detail to ensure everyone stayed on task, and most importantly, that everyone was safe doing so. He loved his career in the Construction Trade beginning the journey in 1975. During that time, he was involved in hundreds of projects (mostly local in Victoria) and mentoring many young people in the trades.
John was an advocate for education in the trades as well, and became Gold Seal Certified in 2013. He put so much effort into his career and absorbed the weight and responsibility attached to his position with an unwavering professionalism. He leaves behind so many friends whose lives he touched and truly cared about.
The family wants to send our most sincere and gracious appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and care providers at Vancouver General Hospital for showing our dad compassion and dignity in his final days. The level of care you offered and were able to extend reached our hearts especially when we were not able to be at his side. We know he felt our strength and love through you all.
The Scheeren Family would like to extend an invitation to all the people he had touched in honoring John at his farm in Metchosin, BC. A date has not been selected at this time due to restrictions, but we look forward to seeing all of you soon, and sharing in his memory.
“We love you dad, and we will make you proud”
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
88 Responses
My condolences Lesley to you and your family
Unfortunately um I’m a long lost cousin of Johnny
Roberta Nichols/ Goyette
RIP cousin
The John Scheeren I know was John the Builder. That is how our lives paths crossed. He was in a class by himself. The making of a building is sometimes a complex, often stressful thing. To make a building extremely well is a rare and precious gift.
Beyond all the knowledge, experience,and wits required, the thing I think that sets a special builder apart is his recognition that it is people – the workmen, the tradesmen, the craftsmen that actually make the building. Somehow, John understood that, because the buildings he built with us were always beyond well done. The care with which they were made can only be because the workmens’ steward and mentor, somehow let them understand that it was with that extra effort, and that it mattered.
Such a man was John. To work with him was not just satisfying, it was a pleasure.
Thank You. So much. Good Sir.
Sincerely Paul M. Merrick, B.Arch., Architect AIBC (retired)
We are very sorry to hear about John’s terrible accident and his passing. John came to our house everyday for about six weeks to work on our home project with Art. He sure loved his family. John always spoke lovingly about his beautiful wife, Lesley. He was incredibly proud of Lesley and their two sons.
Condolences to Lesley, JR and Robbie.
R.I.P. John.
Dear Lesley, J.R., Robbie, Kate, Patti and Brooks
I only just learned of what happened to John. I am so sorry for your loss of husband, dad, and grandfather. I would like to be of any help I can. I live in Metchosin and am available, ready and willing to help with chores or errands of any kind. Just let me know.
In 1988 John was my Campbell Construction contractor when my veterinary clinic, Pacific Cat Clinic was built. I have not seen him since, but those 6 weeks we spent in daily contact were a very special memory. John was always so upbeat and positive and we had many interesting discussions, including one I remember as we shared our horror and shock when Ben Jonson was found to have been cheating on his 100 metre Gold medal run.
I was very young and worried about the commitment I was making opening my practice but John made the construction of the clinic a pleasure as he turned the blueprints into reality. What he built 32 years ago has stood up very well as his carpentry skills were so good such that we have only needed to do cosmetic updates despite all those years passing.
During that time we spent together what shone through for me about John was the joy he took in his family and I remember how proud he was to introduce me to his two boys when he brought them by after school so I could meet them. May you rest in peace John knowing that you did good work and leave behind a wonderful family who were so lucky to have your love and guidance!
Lesley,
Wow. I can’t imagine what you are feeling. I hope you find peace and joy in the beautiful memories you have of your one-of-a-kind love and life together. Your stories always showed me an example of what to strive for. Wishing you well.
It was a terrible day for me when I heard about John’s accident. The world came crashing down for me when he died despite all his struggles. John and Lesley were very special to me. I spent a year as an exchange student and found my second family with them. It was the most wonderful year I have ever had. Two wonderful people took me in as if I had always belonged. I will miss holiday shopping with John, our political debates, his rough-hewn cordiality. He was like a second father to me. There is only one thought to comfort me now. Where you are now, John, is where my grandparents are. And especially with my grandfather you will get along well. I will never forget you. My heart and thoughts are with Lesley and the rest of the family.
Lorne Middleton
I’m so sorry to hear of Johns passing my thoughts are with you ❤️