lived in Pickering, Ontario children - Susan, Frank, Gail, David, Joyce, Diana
[Obituary]
Peacefully at home after a brief illness, surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 26th, 2014 at a very young 78 years of age. He will be forever missed by his wife Marion with whom he shared over 56 years of marriage. Dear father of Susan (Tom) Rivers, Wayne (Alison Le Ber), Gail (Wayne) Kean, David (Annie), Joyce Johnston and Diana (Mike Pabstel). He will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Winifred Rajsic, Frank (Joyce) and Marshall. Predeceased by his parents, Hayward and Frances and his great-grandson Dylan.
John was born at home in Mount Moriah, Newfoundland on November 9, 1935, and remained a Newfoundlander through and through despite moving to Ontario in his early 20's. He had a ready smile and was willing to tell a yarn to anyone he saw. He was continually drawn back to Newfoundland both by visits and a period of living there before settling in Oshawa in his later years.
Living in Oshawa allowed John and his wife Marion to be near their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It also afforded them the opportunity to participate in a variety of social activities and make many friends. Family gatherings were hosted at their home before the family expanded to the point that a larger space was required. He was always ready for visitors and company, both family and friends. Each of his many grandchildren were inspired by his unique ability to connect to them in conversation, show interest in their individual lives as well as his continued physical activities.
John stayed true to his roots with the food he ate, the music he loved, the friendly conversation, and the jokes he told. He loved listening to a variety of music, dancing and playing on his beloved accordion.
John sought a healthy lifestyle throughout his life; with both in what he ate and the physical activity he enjoyed. He often sought a holistic remedy for any ailment. He rode a bike, skated, and had a garden his entire life, along with a period of raising a variety of animals. In his senior years, he expanded his interests with golfing and dancing. John always walked the golf course in order to maximize the opportunity for exercise. He skated numerous times a week and many were in awe of his agility and speed on the rink. He was proud of his accomplishment of climbing the stairs of the CN tower at 63 years of age in 22 minutes. John and Marion were members of a number of Senior Dance Groups as well as the Legion. He was a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor and was a very popular partner.
John will be sadly missed by many and forever remembered for his inspiring active lifestyle, his quick wit, friendly smile, chatty disposition and countless stories and anecdotes. A very special thanks to Dr. Katrina Cox, N.D. (Naturopathic Doctor) who gave him comfort.