Donald Edward John passed away on Thursday June 26, 2025, in Victoria, B.C. at the age of 96. He was the beloved husband of Muriel (Roxby), proud father of daughters Karen Aitken (Jonathan Aitken) of Victoria B.C., and Judith Lowe (Gary Lowe) of Orleans, Ontario, also dear grandfather of Fiona Aitken (Kevin Brown), Alistair Aitken, Harrison Lowe (Julie Boileau), and Mackenzie Lowe.
As a teenager, Don served with the Royal Navy in Burma (now Myanmar). He came to Canada from Scotland in 1953, initially to Toronto where he studied Theology. He later moved to Montreal, and eventually settled in Lachute, Quebec. His early work in Lachute was as Chaplain with the Lachute Police department, helping youth with drug addictions, while also serving as Presbyterian Minister at the church in nearby Mille Isles. Don later became Chief of Security at Ivaco Rolling Mills, in L’Orignal, Ontario for almost 30 years until his retirement in 2003.
In retirement, Don and Muriel moved west to Victoria, B.C. where they enjoyed the beautiful climate and environment, as well as getting to spend more time with daughter Karen and family. They made many new friends in seniors’ groups (like the Monterey Centre) and in their condominium on Fairfield Road.
In the last several years, Don’s mobility was limited, and his voice was feebler, but his mind was as sharp as ever. He always took every opportunity available to play the jumper, whether it was feigning an injury if you happen to lightly bump into him or jokingly tease unknowing people with a fake complaint. After you got to know his “schtick”, people would light-heartedly call him out, which gave him a laugh.
We’d like to thank all the friends in Don’s previous condo residence on Fairfield Road, all the staff and residents of Parkwood Place residence in Victoria for their kind companionship in these last few years, the incredible staff at Island Health (VIHA) and the staff at Aberdeen Hospital who provided amazing comfort and compassion for him these last few months.
A celebration of life will take place at McCall’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 29th at 2:00 p.m. The ceremony will be livestreamed and recorded for later viewing.
Suaimhneas Síoraí Air
(Eternal Rest on Him)
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “John” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Diane MacPherson
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Judith Cameron I first met Don when he and Muriel joined the Cook St Village Activity Centre previously called Fairfield Activity Centre. As manager, I was responsible for the overall security of the senior centre. That is when, Don offered his services to assist with the safety plan. As well, he helped with removing litter from the flower beds. His contributions were very much appreciated by all the staff and members of the centre. I was delighted in getting to know him. He was funny, thoughtful, and generous of his time. My sincere condolences to Muriel and all her family.
Warmly,
Judith Cameron.
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Brother terry Paquette I met Don in the 1970’s . I worked with him, in Lachute, Qc. as he helped young people with addictions and social problems. I appreciated his faith in Jesus, his humour, uncommon common sense, direct approach (no room for ambiguity), ability to relate to just about anyone and perseverance in difficult situations. When I took my first vows in 1974, he encouraged me and gave me a spiritual book as a present. He saw I needed more spiritual reading!! I remember, fondly, Muriel and Karen and Judith. My heart felt sympathy to his family and much-loved ones. One the 29th of July, I will offer the Mass for Don and all those dear to him. Brother Terry Paquette
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Laurie smithers My family was blessed to be neighbors with Mr and Mrs John.
Mr John was a loving and kind person.All our deepest sympathies go to Mrs John and all the family.
Love Laurie, Sandra and all the Smithers family. ❤️
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Judy Stiles Muriel and Family
My thoughts and sympathy are with you as you come to terms with the end of Don’s life.It was a privilege to have Don (and you Muriel) as friends, and neighbours in the Fairfield Rd Condo. Always welcoming, helpful and caring. I’ve always been struck by Don’s devotion to Muriel, his love for life and his service to others. Although affected by health challenges, he maintained a positive attitude and quirky sense of humour…which he gleefully shared with others. A long life – well lived and shared with others! May the best memories sustain you!
With Love – Judy Stiles
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Joanne & Gerald Ravary Our deepest sympathies to you Muriel, Karen and family, Jude, Gary, Harrison, Julie and Mackenzie. I know it is a very hard time for all of you but the beautiful memories out way the sadness. He will truly be missed. We will kept you all in our hearts.
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Kandis Armstrong & Andy Mikita We only met Don a couple of times at his daughter Karen’s house. He had that little mischievous sparkle in his eyes when he was telling a “dad” joke. He clearly had a wonderful sense of humour and kindness that he shared with many. Our deepest condolences to Muriel and family.
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Simona Steven Rosa Bailey We have so many beautiful memories of “grandpa” as we used to call him.
He was a dear friend,with a big kind heart. He was a papa to us all and to our kitties who he looked after – with lovely grandma – while we were away. We will miss his smile greatly.
Steven will miss cutting his hair and hearing his jokes.
With love, we offer our condolences to Muriel and family. Steven – Rosa – Simona
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Ann Grey Our heartfelt condolences are with you Muriel and your family. We loved getting to know you both and William in particular loved kibitzing with Don whenever they met. He is flying with the eagles now. Love Ann and William
You rarely meet people like Don and Muriel John. But then they move into your condo community. It has been a true blessing that we could call them friends. They were a gift to all of us, and we all loved them so very much. It is with great sadness that we offer our heartfelt condolences to Muriel, Karen and Judith and their families on Don’s passing. May it bring you much comfort knowing that he is resting peacefully with Jesus in Heaven. It has been a privilege to have known you both throughout the many years that you were our neighbors. You will be dearly missed.❤️
Sent with much love, Muriel. He will be missed…. Diane and Eugene…❤️❤️