With sadness, we announce the passing of John on July 4th, 2019, following a short illness. This incomparable father, step-father, grandfather and great-grandfather leaves a large adoring family who will always cherish sharing his long and happy life. These include his precious partner, Ethel, who made his final years so joyous; sister, Eva; children, Ken (Lani), Deb (Andy), Rod (Hazel), Liam (Heather) and Pam; grandchildren, Jason, Jeremy, Keir, Jesse, Alana, Spencer, Jacqueline, Lauren, Calvin, Megan and Nolan and, at last count, 12 great grandchildren!
John was born near Red Deer, Alberta, the 5th of 6 siblings born to Hazel and Clifford Braithwaite, and raised on the family farm. He graduated from Olds Agricultural College along with brothers, George, Jim and Tom but found his life long career in the oil and gas industry in Alberta. He married and was predeceased by Elaine Unterschultz (Ken, Deb, Rod) in 1985 and Marcia Regan (Liam, Pam) in 2014. He retired to Victoria from Calgary in 1984 and he and Ethel spent his remaining years happily surrounded by new friends at Shannon Oaks.
John had a wide range of interests and lived life with gusto and gentle humour. He loved cosmology, geology, science and the natural world. He was a keen outdoorsman and delighted in taking family and friends fishing. John traveled extensively with family and in 2014, he completed a long-cherished goal with his son, Ken, to visit 6 continents. But mostly, John loved family and left a legacy of caring and commitment for each other that we’ll never forget.
Rest in peace GPa – love you forever.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, August 10th, 2019 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Shannon Oaks, 2000 Goldsmith Street, Victoria, BC, V8R 0A2.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to a wildlife or conservancy organization of your choice.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Linda and Bob Dick
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Diane and Frank So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was an extraordinary man. His smile lit up a room. It was a blessing to have known him.
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Bev & Wayne Fuhr Ken, Deb, Rod, and Families:
We have very fond memories of your Dad. We send our deepest sympathy.
Keep all the fond memories in your hearts where he lives on.Love your cousin,
Bev & Wayne Fuhr
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Don (Cathy) Fisherman I just learned of Mr. B’s passing. I was very sorry to hear this as, in many ways, Mr. B was like a second father to me while I was growing up. I have many great memories of fishing, exploring caves and playing charades. Mr. B. was always there for me. What a great guy he was. Sincerest condolences to Ken, Debs and Rod as well as Mr. B’s extended family.
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Bill Schultz Ken, Deb, Rod and families:
My wife Erika and I remember your dad fondly, through your mom Elaine, who was the choir director (St. Matthew Lutheran Church – German Congregation) many, many years ago. We also remember their 3 well behaved (mostly( LOL, children. Our condolences, through our Lord Jesus Christ, to all of you and your families. Bill and Erika Schultz
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Sherry and melvina blinn Dear Deb, Rod and Ken, how we loved your dad and treasured the many times he came to visit us in Duncan. He and Bill would have made a striking couple of guys in their younger years! Your dad was always so keen for knowledge and adventures. We think of the good old days when your dear mom was with us, too. We can’t make it on the 10th as we are putting on a baby shower for Marina’s daughter. We will be thinking of you that day. Love, Melvina and Sherry Blinn
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Marion Gardner Dear Ethel and family: My heart is saddened by the loss of dear John. I will always remember the day at Shannon Oaks when I was helping John at the dunk tank, his laughter rang out when the fellow in the tank went down and planning for the lemon meringue pie. May God surround you with his loving arms now and always and know John shines down and watches over you. Many Blessing Marion Gardner
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Brenda and Peter Day Such a kind warm open man. He will be missed.
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Joey Campbell Ken, Deb, Rod and families:
My sincerest condolences on the loss of your Dad. I have many fond memories of him and I know he will be deeply missed. He has always been one of my favourite people. Rest In Peace, Mr B.
Joey Campbell
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Janice Chapman We were very sorry to hear about the passing of your father Ken who I know was a very important person in your life. I am certain that you will cherish the memories of the wonderful adventures you shared with him,. We are sad for the loss of your great father.
Jan chapman and Eric Anthony
Ken, Deb, Rod and families:
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Fun loving spirits like Uncle John are such a gift to this world. Please know our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Bob and Linda Dick