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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Sandra
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jan low Sharon I am so sorry to hear you lost John this month. Getting to our age is NOT the golden years for sure. I only met John and few times while you and I worked at London Life but I still recognize him. Please accept my sincere condolences. Jan nee Mclean now Jan Low
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Allan Bird My condolences to the family for the loss of John. I started longshoring with his brother Mike years ago in Victoria and would now like to contact Mike. Myself and his old workmates have regular reunions and would like him to join us. Please contact me, Al Bird. Thankyou
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Julia Burns My heartfelt condolences to you Holli and family on the loss of your father.
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Sherry Henry Holli and family I’m so sorry for your loss. Your dad was such a gentle soul I’ll never forget his peaceful nature and pleasant smile when I would see him.
I remember years ago he would drop off the kids for haircuts always there to help your family as best he could. A true gem will be missed.
Sending my condolences.Sherry Henry.
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Cory Mayzes The most genuinely nicest guy ever. Always enjoyed chatting with him about sports and history which he was very knowledgeable about. He will be very much missed and fondly remembered. My favorite memory is the time I pulled into the parking lot at CG Royal Oak and noticed he was in the car next to me. While chatting John informed me that he had snuck out for a secret cheeseburger from McDonald’s and not to mention I had seen him. Rest in peace to one of the best guys ever.
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Janice Wickstrom Our condolences to all the family. We remember sister Linnea saying he was her favourite cousin.
All our love, Gordon and Janice Wickstrom
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Larianne Luck I only knew John for the last year or so but in that brief period of time I could tell he was something special. Hard to lose one of “the great ones” Boy he could tell a story!
Condolences to all his cherished family. So grateful to have met him.
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Muriel Stern Holli.. so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing . We met in 1976 when we were neighbours on Shelley Street. Sharon invited me to play a dice game with some of her friends. You and Krista became life long friends . We moved back to Newfoundland in 1976 but we never lost touch in over 50
Years . Your Dad was a very kind, sweet man and he will be your guardian angel now and in your ❤️ forever ! Hugs and love Muriel
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Fran Graham Oh Holli I’m so very sorry to hear that you have lost your Dad. He was a great guy and I know you will miss him a lot. Please know I’m thinking of you.
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Kel Barney My heartfelt condolences to Holli and her family during this incredibly difficult time. I’m so sorry for your loss.
John Wickstrom will be remembered with love, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Wishing you comfort, strength, and moments of peace in the days ahead.
Thinking of you, Holli, and sending all love and support
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