With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John, loving husband, father, and grandfather (“Papa”). John passed away April 18th at Saanich Peninsula Extended Care surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by and will be greatly missed by his wife of 55 years, Maxine; his daughter, Julie (Charles) Nowakowski; son, Jason (Paige) McDicken and his grandchildren, Christian (Devon), Sierra, Sam and Will.
John was born on September 22, 1939 in Vancouver, BC where he resided with family throughout his childhood and developed numerous lifelong friendships. He started his working career in Vancouver before transferring to Victoria in 1960 where he met and married Maxine in 1963. His employment spanned decades, working at Heaney Cartage/Johnston Terminals from 1956-1974 followed by the Province of BC from 1974-1997 working in various areas of the Motor Vehicle Branch. His last few years of work led him to Nanaimo where he retired in 1997 and enjoyed the things he loved most. He golfed almost daily, enjoyed walks with his furry friend, Elliot, and taught himself how to cook! Hobbies throughout his life included golf, fishing, camping, woodworking, waxing his vehicles, playing cards and vacationing with family and friends.
His last few months were full of struggles and he is now at peace and no longer suffering. The family extends their gratitude to the amazing nurses and care aides who embraced John and made this past year at Saanich Peninsula Hospital Extended Care Unit 1 as comfortable as possible.
A Celebration of Life for John will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria BC on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, if desired, a donation may be made to The Saanich Peninsula Hospital Auxiliary or to the BC Cancer Foundation.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Jamie Davies
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Neville Hope Hi Maxine. I was very saddened to read of John’s death. My working relationship with John goes back to our early days in Nanaimo, probably around 1990. John was always interested in finding a mutually agreeable solution to whatever issue we were dealing with. He was a real gentleman with a wicked sense of humour.
I miss our Christmas get-togethers of the old gang in Nanaimo.
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Garnet & Barb Hunt Remembering John, always with us when we play #18 @ Fairwinds.
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Caroline Nichols Hi Maxine,
So sorry to hear about John. I think about you on days when I walk past your old house here in Craig Bay and hope that you are settled in Victoria and that things haven’t been too difficult for you. I feel for you and understand how hard it is to lose your life partner. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Caroline Nichols
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Iain AM Ballantyne We will miss John, his card playing and witty humour. Please keep in touch and pass on our condolences to your family. Iain and Diane
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Pam Myerscough(Campbell) Sincere condolences to Maxine and family. Cherish all the good memories that have been created. My thoughts are with you during this hard time.
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Melanie Sinclair My condolences to your family . Cherish all the best memories.❤️
Melanie
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Elizabeth Niessen Julie and family, may the laughter and sweet memories of John be with you forever and bring a smile to your faces. Your all in our thoughts.
Elizabeth, Scott, Megan and Kelsey
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Ollie Bedlington Sincere condolences to you Maxine and family, you are in my prayers. Lots of Love Ollie and family.
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Linda May care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Our most sincere condolences.
Xo
Marc & Linda
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Gordon & Nonie Tews Aaron Andrea Amy May God’s love light your way through this dark valley.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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Gerry Davis Heartfelt condolences from my family to yours Jason. He lives on in you and his grandchildren.
Gerry
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Jude Shirley Hugs to you all. We have a lot of great memories with Uncle John, playing cards, camping trips and road trips. He will be missed.
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Sid & Sandy Reeve Sid & Sandy Reeve send their condolences. May the passing of time help with your grieving.
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Wayne and Glenda Olfrey Condolences to the family
May John Rest in peace
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Janet Strom Sincere condolences – wishing you find comfort in the loving memories that you will forever hold in your hearts. You are all in our thoughts.
Much love, Janet and Neil
He will be remembered always….My heart goes out to his wonderful Family. Sending you all our thoughts and prayers on this hardfelt day. Love you. Jamie and Family. Xoxo