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
Dear Shara and the Pollen Family
We have known John for many years in the car business and I will always remember his smile and great sense of humour. We will miss him very much. Our deepest condolences.
It is very sad to know that such a stellar person in all manner has passed from our lives. Our deep condolences go to his large loving family. I shared a wonderful time with John when we won the mixed doubles in the Oak Bay New Years Classic. I still smile at the thought of our opponents thinking of me as the “weak partner” and John overcame any thought of that with intense returns (and a whole bunch of poaching). A true sportsman and a gentleman with a generous heart and ready smile. You live on, John, in our hearts and our memories.
My friendship with John was cemented at Appleby when we became roommates during the 1979 Rugby tour. In addition to everything people have already said, John had a great sense of humor and was committed to having fun – I can still hear his laugh as I write this. I had the opportunity to see John in the past few months. To say that he was brave and courageous in the face of his awful diagnosis seems like an understatement. I was humbled by his attitude. JP may be gone but the world is still a much better place for having had him. My condolences to everyone who will miss him.
John. I have very fond memories of our bike rides to glenlyon every morning. You were a habs fan, I was a bruins fan and we debated who had the best team ! All the best to you family
Ross Meredith
Very sad news indeed.
I knew John very early on as our lives and families were entwined through business. We reconnected again in 20’s and ever since then I can’t remember a single time where he wasn’t consistently cheerful and friendly whenever we met. He was a good guy with a fantastic smile that I wish I had known better.
His human kindness and thoughtfulness was manifest in all that he did over the years for my brother Craig. For that leg up and support we are all truly grateful.
Thank you John and our condolences to Shara and the entire Pollen clan.
It is with heartfelt sadness that we write these words of condolence to all of your family. John had a contagious smile that will be remembered forever. We are thinking of you all.
Love Lori, Ron, Blake & Mary, Brett & Kelly
To Mary Ann, Jane, Dana and Kathy,
One of my fondest memories of John was seeing him dressed in his school uniform for the first day of school. He was so proud! Although our lives took different paths, various things brought our families together over the years. John will be missed a lot but we will treasure our memories of him and it is a blessing to know he is now free from pain and limitations. Love to all of you.
Dear Shara and Pollen Family, I am devasted to learn that we have lost John. He was a wonderful member of the Board of the Victoria Hospital Foundation, which I had the honour of Chairing. His valuable insights, willingness to work, and incredible sense of humour brought joy to us all. Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss of this very special person.
Great car guy and even better family man, something to be said about the ultimate balance and John was that guy. So saddened to hear about this and we wish everyone affected thoughts and prayers.
Mike Hacquard
Wolfe Auto Group
Dear Dana, Kathy and extended family. I am so sorry to read about your brother’s passing. I can only imagine the huge sadness that diagnosis must have brought you all; so sad when I’m sure there was much more life to give. Cherish your memories, re- live all the happy ,fun times spent together. Thinking of you and sending hugs-
Shelagh (Houston)