John, beloved husband of Jean, passed away peacefully on July 6 at 91. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 18 years, Jean, and his five children, Lynn (Tim), Bruce (Kim) Martha (Don), Wendy (Jeff), and Michelle, his 8 dearly loved grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, his stepchildren, Annie (Erik), Peter (Elise) and David (Alisha) and 5 step-grandchildren.

John was known for his sharp wit and unique sense of humour, often characterized as a curmudgeon with a heart of gold. His straightforward manner and no-nonsense approach endeared him to many who knew him well. Despite his gruff exterior, he was deeply caring and always supported his family with unwavering love and dedication.

Born in Nanaimo on October 6, 1932, John led a life of hard work and integrity. He worked in the automotive business and in automobile insurance, finally starting his own business, Dominion Appraisers, which he successfully ran for many years until his retirement. He loved supporting his children’s sports activities, as an athlete, spectator, and coach in many sports including skating, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and hockey. He also fixed up old cars for others, including a Porsche 911 for Lynn and a ‘62 Comet for Wendy. He was proud to have built his family house on Sims Avenue, doing much of the work himself after work and on weekends.

An avid squash player, John found joy in playing throughout his life. He was proud of the fact that at the age of 91, he could still play a weekly game with his buddy, Gerry. He rarely missed his weekday coffee meetups with his good friends Doug and Tony. His legacy lives on through the memories he created with his loved ones and his impact on those fortunate enough to know him.

Special thanks go to his medical team, including Dr. Mike Putland, and Dr. Gaylene Hargrove as well as the Dream Team of home nurses, led by Cathy and Laurie, who supported him, (and Jean!) in his last days at home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Glenlyon Norfolk School Bursary fund, a cause he appreciated because of his wife’s long tenure at that school. (https://www.mygns.ca/support/donate-online/)

A celebration of John’s life will be held at Glenlyon Norfolk Junior School, 1701 Beach Drive, Victoria, on July 20, 2024, at 1:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering and honouring a man who meant so much to many.

Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

  • Clare Turner

    From Clare Turner, Ben,Ian and Alistair Kunka.

    All our love to you, Jean, at this sad time. We are thinking of you and sending you our deepest sympathy and love.

  • Bev McIver

    My deepest sympathy to Bruce, Kim and their family. May the wonderful memories of your loved one give you some peace during this difficult time.

Leave Condolence

Type your condolence message into the box below and click "Submit". It may take up to 24 hours for it to appear. Your email address will not be published.

*

Search Website

ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR