1940-2023
John passed quietly, surrounded by family on 18 September 2023 at Perley Health, Ottawa.
Survived by his beloved wife Carol (nee Keddy), sons Michael (Sarah Hobbs), Mark (Linda Mackay) and John (Maureen McCann), and grandchildren Paige, Cole, Erika, Léa, Katherine and Lauren.
Immigrating to Canada in 1954, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy via the VENTURE program (class of ‘59) wherein he found the structure he needed, and life he sought. A career naval officer he commanded at sea in HMCShips FRASER, ANNAPOLIS and MACKENZIE, and ashore at the Naval Officer Training Center VENTURE, and CFB Halifax.
He provided his boys a solid start in life and let us find our own paths.
Friends and family are invited to an informal, drop-in Gathering of Remembrance at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa on Saturday, October 14th from 10am to 1pm.
Donations in lieu of flowers preferred, to Canada’s Naval Memorial Trust (hmcssackville.ca), Perleyhealth.ca, or Alzheimer.ca.
Digital Guestbook
Leila Farrah
Jim Barlow
A respected colleage, shipmate and dear friend since the early 1960’s you will be sorely missed by Lois and I. We can take comfort knowing you are in a better place. Condolences to you boys and your families. Jim and Lois Barlow
Nancy Curleigh
Carol and family: I was sad to hear of John’s passing. Cherish the fond memories of many happy times shared. Blessings and love. Nancy
Norm and Pam Hanley
John and I have been good friends for many years .The memories will remain with me always .Our thoughts and prayers will be with the family during this difficult time
Captain(N) Louise SIEW, Retd
As a Logistics Officer in the Dockyard, I often had the pleasure of working for him. I have very fond memories of those interactions and especially his smile. Although an imposing presence, I also remember him as very approachable. My sincere sympathy to the family for your significant loss.
Bev Mulligan
Mark, Linda and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts have been with you. My wish for you all is that the wonderful memories you shared comfort you in the years to come. And when those memories bring you tears, may they be diverted off to the side by the smile they also bring. XO
Dick Waller
I am saddened to learn of John’s passing and offer my sincere condolences to Carol and his family. Dick Waller
Ted Kelly
It is saddening to learn of John's passing. We were Class Mates at VENTURE and he became a significant presence in my own Naval Service first as my cabin matein our senior year and subsequently at sea where wed earned our Watch Keeping Certificates together in the first HMCS Iroquois. I have great memories of John. He was a capable respected Naval Officer, a great ship mate and a fine human being. He will be warmly remembered by all who served with him. My condolences to Carol and family/
Dean Boettger
I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. My thoughts are with you all.
Wayne Shellnutt
Ingrid and I pass on our sadness to Carol and family. We built our house on Long Lake in the Spring of 1995 copying the design of the John and Carol’s new home across the lake from us. Enjoyed talking genealogy with both Carol and John’s family with with ours, particularly connections to Mahone Bay and Malay as well as John’s roots in England. Very pleasant couple to talk to Wardroom and RA Park functions
Mark and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.