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
To all the Pollen clan my sincere condolences and sending the love. The chance John gave me at a serious crossroads in my life journey not only changed my life forever..it saved my life, to say I am grateful doesn’t begin to cover it. John we will see you again one day I am quite sure. You are an amazing man and I will never forget.
Love from the heart JP!
Craig Hawe
My deepest sympathies and condolences to your families. John always had a joyful presence. I am grateful to have met him, he will be missed. Sending love, thought, and prayers.
So sad to hear of John’s passing. My thoughts and hugs go to you all. It’s been years since I have seen any of you, but your family played such a big role in my early years. Take care.
Our deepest condolences to Shara, Mary Ann, Jane, Dana, Kathy, and the entire Pollen family. May you find comfort in your memories of time spent together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
I was very sorry to read of John’s death. While I did not know him well, every time I dealt with him, he was unfailingly courteous, unflappable and always able to come up with an answer to any question I might have. My heart goes out to his family, especially Mary Ann. You are in my thoughts.
I have great memories of being in the same grade at Glenlyon with John and always appreciated his friendship, especially in sports. He led many of our school sports teams and was a truly gifted athlete. My sincere condolences to the Pollen family.
Dear Kathy & Dana,
Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the devastating loss of your brother.
We are thankful for the friendship, kindness and support of John along with his sisters, parents and children of our small business in Victoria . John and his sisters have always been a bright light in the city and many of us have them to thank for keeping us motivated to continue to make Victoria the best place to live. Thank you to four generations of the Pollen family and our condolences to Shara, the girls, and Mary Ann for the loss of a great man.
I have no words in knowing about the passing of John. My heart goes to all of you. Please accept our condolences from the depth of our hearts.
My sincerest condolences to the whole family. Our families have always intertwined from the beginning and each member is special to us in their in way. I cannot picture him without that beaming smile and always remember his kindness. I hope you find solace in these memories and each other as you are a special family for sure. Much love to you all.