On April 3rd at 1:39 p.m., we said goodbye to John, one of the greatest of all time (GOAT). After a short, five-week battle with cancer, the bravest man we know decided it was time. We respected his wishes and stood beside him, surrounding him with love, gratitude, and appreciation.
John’s roots began on Robbins Range in Kamloops, BC, with his wonderful parents, Peggy and Holger. The family later moved to Victoria, where they grew together. John joined the Air Force, hitchhiked across Canada and the USA twice, worked in the shipyards, and then at UVIC, where he retired after 33 years.
John met Sharon on a Ferris wheel ride at the Jaycee Fair, beginning a legendary life together filled with beaches, nightclubs, and cherished time with the Wickstrom and Henderson families. They married in 1964 and welcomed their only daughter in 1968—beginning the legacy he leaves behind.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 61½ years, Sharon; daughter Holli and son-in-law Bill; grandchildren Tanner (and fiancée Jenn), Billy (and partner Lisa), Amanda, and Nicola (and partner Dylan); and three great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy—Lily, Boston, and Carter. He also leaves behind his devoted siblings and their partners: Heather and Larry, Liz, Harold and Marilyn, Michael and Marilyn, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was predeceased by his eldest brother Ron and his wife Trudy, sister-in-law Mary, and his parents, Holger and Peggy.
John was rich in family and friendships and carried deep gratitude for both. He rarely missed a chance to watch his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play sports, often saying afterward that it was better than any professional lacrosse, soccer, or hockey game.
His positivity and dedication will inspire us forever. Some of his final words were, “I love you,” “Thank you, everyone,” and “Have a great summer.”
We will honour John with a celebration of life in early summer. For now, we are learning how life looks without the head of our family and cherishing the time we had with him.
Our immense thanks to Dr’s Wade, Smith, Tiislar and De Pauw and all the health care professionals on 8 South at Royal Jubilee Hospital.
We love you forever and always, John—Dad, Papa, John Boy. May you be at peace and watch over us always.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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11 Responses
John was my neighbour, he watched me grow from age 8yr-49yr . He was the most kindest thoughtful man I have encountered in my days. We looked out for each other❤️ I already miss our daily greetings , you are missed John