It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected death of our beloved husband, father and grandfather John; on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at the age of 75 years.
John is survived by his loving wife and best friend Ida; children Neil (Christina), Jason (Sarah), and Leslie (Darcy); grandchildren Julianna, Brianna, Lashaina, Jordan, Sara, Linden and Ethan; as well as extended family.
Born in Eastern Canada, he moved to BC and Vancouver Island as a young man looking for work in the 1960s. In his early career as a logging truck driver, he and Ida lived in Hope and Ucluelet with their young family, before settling in Port Alberni. John spent the majority of his career working for Coulson's Forest Products and was a dedicated employee.
Words cannot adequately describe the kind of man that John was. He was gentle, loving and truly one of a kind. He had a tough looking exterior but the heart and soul of a saint. John was all about family. All of his children/grandchildren can fondly remember him being available to them any day and at any time. John was quick witted and loved to make up his own funny expressions/sayings that would bring a smile to even a stranger's face. He was completely selfl ess and would help anybody without hesitation. Every animal loved John, and he secretly had the nickname of being the "dog whisperer" in our family. Although every dog that visited John, left about 5 lbs heavier.
On July 24th, the world truly lost the most wonderful human being. John had the support of an amazing medical team over the years. We would like to acknowledge and thank: Dr. R. D. Lund, his MOA's Cindy and Dana, Dr. Feyi "Dr. Fred" (as John called him) and his MOA Dawn, Dr. J. Ferguson, Dr. Samphire (Victoria, BC), Dr. Croome (Nanaimo, BC), Dr. Mohamedali and his MOA Lori and Nurse Dan, as well as all the nursing staff at the Dialysis Unit in Port Alberni. All of your kind, compassionate, and devoted care gave John an extended life after his many illnesses.
No formal service will be held at this time. A gathering will be planned at a later date. Stories, condolences, and messages to the family may be made at www.chapelofmemories.ca.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to the BC Children's Hospital, 938 W 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4.
Rest in peace John - we love you.
Chapel of Memories