Tribute

(son of Frank & Margot) passed away peacefully at age 90 years on January 20, 2011 at Valhaven Extended Care facility in Abbotsford. John was predeceased by his wife Glady in 2010, after 64 years of marriage and is survived by his sister Helen; 5 daughters, Mary Austin (Rodger), Linda Sanger (Ian – deceased), Wendy Slavin (Carl), Diane Pastor (Al) and Barbara Grimmer (Bruce); 14 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Flo Dow and Rose Spooner; brother-in-law Ray Meade and cousins Verna, Laura and Marion. John and Glady met while working for CIBC at the Ladysmith branch prior to World War II. John served in the Canadian Army (Signal Corp) from 1942 (age 21) until war end and was a member of the 4th Canadian Armoured Brigade. His home regiment was the Rocky Mountain Rangers. John and Glady were married in 1946 following John’s return from service overseas. They started their married life in John’s home town of Kamloops and also resided in Prince George, Burnaby, Williams Lake and Saltspring Island before retiring to Parksville in 1985. Dad loved music and will be remembered at Valhaven for his constant singing. His family will remember competitive family games and hilarious nicknames for everyone and of course he selected a nickname for himself too, so he was known by all as “The President”. Our parents considered themselves very fortunate to be together until separated by death. We were also very fortunate to have all 5 daughters and some of their family members together to celebrate Dad’s 90th birthday on December 4, 2010. At their request no funeral ceremony or memorial service will be held. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. We are forever grateful for the compassionate care extended by the staff at Valhaven to both our parents. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the charity of your choice.