In Loving Memory
John Pollen, aged 62, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2024, in Victoria, BC after a courageous battle with ALS. Throughout his journey with ALS he was cared for by his loving wife, Shara, while surrounded by love from his large extended family. We want to express our deep appreciation for the care and support provided by the wonderful staff at the Royal Jubilee Hospital.
John was born on December 1, 1961 in Vancouver, BC, to his delighted parents, Mary Ann and the late Peter Pollen. He grew up in a close-knit family with his three older sisters, Jane, Dana, and Kathy. Their childhood memories were filled with laughter and unwavering support for one another, followed by a move to Victoria which would become a very special place for the family.
John attended Glenlyon Norfolk School in Victoria for his younger years before going to Appleby College in Oakville, ON, where he forged many long lasting friendships at his home away from home. From there he graduated from Queen’s University with a Degree in Economics.
Following in his father’s footsteps, John became involved in the automobile business where he and his longtime business partners, Michael Stevulak and Brian Elmhirst, owned and operated one of the most successful Mazda dealerships in Canada for over 35 years. John served on the Mazda Dealer Council where he developed great friendships with many fellow dealers and Mazda Canada staff.
John was a great athlete who excelled in many sports. As an adult he was passionate about squash, golf, soccer and particularly tennis.
John was a devoted husband to his wife, Shara, and he was a guiding light for his three children, Alexandra, David, and Max. For all of John’s accomplishments his children were always his greatest source of pride. His legacy will live on in them. John’s most favourite role was that of being a father and step-father where he could always be seen at the side of a rugby pitch, basketball game or soccer pitch. John warmly embraced Shara’s children, Ethan and Wil, who he knew through most of their young lives.
John’s battle with ALS was marked by unwavering courage and grace. Despite the numerous challenges he remained positive, finding solace in family gatherings and the simple pleasures of life.
John is survived by his loving wife, Shara; children, Alexandra, David and Max; Shara’s children, Ethan and Wil; mother, Mary Ann Pollen and sisters, Jane (Ross Woodland), Dana (Michael Stevulak) and Kathy (Michael Jawl). He was a favourite uncle to many nieces and nephews who always appreciated his sense of humor. His memory will be forever etched in our hearts.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC, on Friday, May 3rd at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ALS Society of BC in honour of John’s fight against the devastating disease.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
37 Responses
I only recently learned of John’s passing, and I wanted to express my deepest condolences.
Coincidentally, John came up in conversation today before I heard the news. A friend and I were discussing our favourite jobs and why we enjoyed them. I mentioned my time at Mazda, primarily because of how things were under John and Michael’s leadership. They ran the business with more care and compassion than I’ve experienced with other employers.
I vividly remember meeting John on my first day. I was nervous, but he welcomed me with a warm smile on introduction. He personally congratulated me on my first sale, hand-delivered my first cheque, and always made time to check in.
Although my time knowing John was brief, his kindness, leadership, and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression.
I was shocked and saddened to read of John’s passing. He was a big ray of sunshine in all of the many lives he touched. Our families, the Ransfords and the Pollens, shared adventures together when we were all younger, and those memories I will always bring to mind with a smile on my face as I remember Johnny. Thank you to you all for keeping him alive in our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to John’s family.
We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear of John’s devastating diagnosis and passing. We have fond memories of our shared adventures. To his family, you have lost a wonderful father, brother, son and uncle, far too soon, but can take solace in the fact that he will be remembered with great fondness and respect by all of us who knew him.
We toast you John (with the G and T on Nootka Island)! We are glad we got to know you!
We have the fondest memories of John and cherish the years of friendship with him. When I think of John a few memories and characteristics stand out. His interest and kindness with young people was so genuine and heartfelt. His quick wit. His intelligence and captivating conversations. His love for cashmere and the finer things in life 😉 His zest for life, the true stomach hurting kind of laughs we enjoyed. Travels and many evenings spent with him and Shara. His smile. Never to be forgotten John, we will miss your presence here on earth but know you are living on in the beautiful family and friends you have impacted. XO
We are very saddened by John’s passing. A wonderful fellow who we had the pleasure of knowing for many years.
Our sincere condolences to all of John’s family.
Don and Laurie Woodland
John was man with a great smile, calm demeanor and always friendly. How such a healthy and active guy can be taken so quickly from us is heartbreaking. Condolences to all the extended Pollen family.
My sincerest condolences to John’s family and friends. I remember John well from our time at Appleby College in Colley House as a friend. His infectious smile, sense of humour and enjoyment of live was evident then. It was so good to see him again at the 2022 reunion. He was one of those who left you feeling enriched at having known him.