It is with broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear beloved father on Partridgeberry Path at the John M. Gray Centre in St. Anthony on May 12th, 2024.
Born January 10th, 1932 in Conche he was the youngest child of Patrick & Frances (nee Murphy). John lost his mother at age 2 and was raised along with his 6 siblings by his Dad with help from friends and family. He grew up to be a kind, caring, soft hearted gentleman respected by those who knew him and loved dearly by his family. He left home at age 16 to work in the stables at the Grenfell Mission in St. Anthony.
He worked various jobs, even the engineer on a schooner, The Glider, before joining his three brothers in later years as their fishing buddy. Years later they were joined by his son, Steve and they worked side by side fishing until him and his brothers retired 1992. John was a Jack of All Trades, master of none as he would say. He took great pride in his work and he loved and served his Saviour without question.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, mechanics, having a good yarn, reminiscing about olden days and oftentimes would make your jaw drop while relating some of the pranks he and a buddy played as their idleness took over – all in fun of course as he wouldn’t hurt a soul, not knowingly anyways. Of everything in life he was most proud of his children and grandchildren, he loved us dearly and he always finished his conversation with us by letting us know it and saying “I love you… I really loves ya too!” We will miss him for sure.
Left to mourn his loss are his loving wife, Susan (nee Whelan), the love of his life with whom he spent just over 60 years of wedded bliss with; his children: Maureen (Chris Tucker), Stephen (Michelle Higgins) and Josephine (Gordon Chaytor); Grandchildren: Marshall, Jessica (Bobby Byrne), Sarah (Robby Osmond), Michael (Alana Symmonds), Jonathan (Erica Hunt), Katrina, Chelsea (Ryan Sweeney), Karessa, and Karson; as well as his Great-grandson Liam; brothers in law: Jim Whelan (Cheryl) and Nick Whelan; his lifelong friend Gerald FitzGerald; special great nephew Murray Symmonds, as well as a number of nieces, nephews and numerous friends.
Gone before him and eagerly awaiting his arrival with open arms are his Mom and Dad: Patrick and Frances (nee Murphy); brothers: Con, Anthony, Patrick; his sisters: Bridget, Kathleen and Josephine; his daughter in law: Evelyn; parents in law: Nicholas and Mary (nee Joyce) Whelan, as well as in-laws numerous cousins and friends.
Peace be thine Dear Daddy/Pop -your wings were ready but we weren’t. You were the best you could be to us and you will be greatly missed. Fly high with the angels sweet man, we will meet again. We love you….we really loves ya too!!
The family extends a heartful thank you to his many care givers and doctors at the John M Gray Centre as well as his caregivers at Shirley’s Haven where he lived for 3 years up until last summer- your kindness and caring deeds have not gone unnoticed. We so very much appreciate each and every one of you. Thank you too to Gerry Bromley. Many times he mentioned how good you were, bringing him in things he wanted and ensuring he got whatever he asked for. Thank you for your time and generosity, being there when we couldn't, a true friend indeed! Last but not least, from the bottom of our hearts thank you Theresa Flynn! You are an angel, it was you who allowed him to stay home and have a few more years in the place he loved tending to his and our mother's needs. He had many kind words for you and so appreciated everything you done. We are grateful too for everything you did and so appreciate the excellent care you provided.
Gifts or flowers are graciously accepted but in lieu, at his request, donations can be made to Sacred Heart Parish.
Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Conche beginning on Tuesday, May 13, 2024 at 7 pm with the wake service taking place on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 7:30 PM. The funeral mass will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 11 am, Father George officiating. Interment to follow.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Kerry M Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Funeral Director Lee Nippard. Thank you, too, for all your help and professionalism.
