John will be remembered lovingly and missed by family, friends and particularly by Colette his wife. He had a liberal arts education with concentrations in Political Science and English Literature which prepared him for executive positions in the public and private sector spanning more than 30 years.
What were the guiding principles that gave direction to his life? First, John believed life was to be lived, opportunities seized and new experiences relished. Not a life of passivity but one that seeks meaning. Learning was an essential part of life, to listen attentively, to join the inquisitive conversation and to assess the passage of time with an eye to the future. Secondly, he was a man committed to public service as almost a vocation: building a country, the basic goodness of men/women, the term common good being wide and inclusive. Beyond a career in public service in seven federal departments, he was a Board member/officer on organisations that ministered to the homeless and those persons with specialised health needs, for example, Options Bytown, Saint Patrick's Home, Bruyere Continuing Care.
Without naming individuals, family members and the many, many friends who helped shape his life, some of whom were instrumental in helping him to depart with peace and dignity, let this brief obituary record his abiding gratitude for your support and cherished love... You are not forgotten.
Friends are invited to visit the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. on Monday September 9th after 12 noon, Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at 1 p.m. followed by a reception.
Digital Guestbook
Oliver and Diane Javanpour
Pascale et Rémy Gréco
John était un oncle brillant, généreux, attentionné, bienveillant et drôle.
Nous avons eu la chance d avoir pu partager d inoubliables voyages, excursions, repas... que de moments merveilleux.
Nous pensons aussi très fort à Colette qui doit poursuivre la route sans toi...
Nos prières te sont adressées, que ton âme repose en paix parmi nos anges partis trop tôt ; merci de veiller sur nous.
Villia Jefremovas
Our deepest sympathies to Colette and all of John’s family and friends.
Jacques NOUGIER
C'est avec beaucoup de tristesse et d'émotion que j'apprends la fin du couple exemplaire de John et Colette. Ils furent un exemple qui illumina une vie à deux et aidera Colette à supporter ce départ. Je pense très fort à vous.
Ellen Powers
As I have remembered John since I learned of his passing I think about his generosity, his friendliness, his curiosity, how he loved Colette, how genuine and kind he was, and especially how fondly I remember all the hours we spent sitting at their dining room table, eating very well, laughing and talking about anything and everything. We cherished him in my family and our hearts hurt for Colette and to know he is gone.
Ellen Powers
Jean-Paul et Nathalie Bottelier
C est avec une grande émotion que nous avons appris la disparition de John.
C était un homme gentil, intelligent, généreux et bienveillant.
Nous étions tous en admiration devant notre distingué tonton John.
Son français était parfait, doté d' un léger accent et faisait l' admiration de toute la famille.
Il était l' oncle d'Amérique et nous étions fiers de sa présence.
Il va beaucoup nous manquer mais nous laisse de beaux souvenirs.
Reçois tout notre soutien Colette dans cette épreuve difficile, nous pensons à toi.
Repose en paix Johnny
Michael & Colleen Schmaltz
Our deepest sympathy to Collette and family.
Though separated by miles John was a constant and treasured friend. It was nearly 60 years ago that we met. From the beginning I have good memories of a leader; responsible yet fun and caring.
Mike & Colleen Schmaltz
Dan Burke
I worked with John at the Canadian Centre for Management Development in the early 90s. He had a wonderful perspective on work and on life. I’m glad our paths crossed.
Paulina & William Reddish
My dearest John,
Words cannot describe my gratitude for giving me what is my life today. Your kindness and
selflessness to sponsor a family from Thailand, has provided my family with a blessed life in
Canada. I was fortunate to have spent the last year with you and Collette. William and I will
forever cherish the memories we have shared. You are gone from us, but forever etched in our hearts. I know one day we will reunite again.
Love Paulina, William and Jailen.
Mathilde Bottelier
Dear John,
It is with sorrow that we lost you a few weeks ago.
I hope you have found a peaceful place to rest and that you are happy from above.
I will never forget all the things you taught me, starting automatically with English lessons, always with a humorous touch. Thank you so much for all of that.
I will always remember the movies we watched, the places we visited, your amazing boat, your morning pancakes, the stories you told me around a glass of scotch, and so much more.
You were an amazing uncle, and the time we spent together is now priceless in my heart.
Thank you for everything, John. We will never forget you.
Mathilde
It is difficult to write about John in the past tense. We will miss his wonderful subtle humour and his thoughtful insights. A dedicated volunteer and a well-travelled student of arts, culture and history, he was a joy to be around. Our sincere condolences to Colette, family and friends. May John’s memory be a blessing to his family and all those who knew him.