John Andrew Markevich

1948 - 2024

JOHN MARKEVICH
John Andrew Markevich 75, passed away with family by his side on Wednesday, March 6th 2024. John is lovingly remembered by his wife Catherine, son Chris (Catherine) daughter Mandy (Dave), his step children Adam (Annika), Joshua, Jenna (Kyle), his three grandchildren Jack, Erik, and Lauryn, John's twin brother Andy (Debbie), his sister Delores (Stan), mother-in-law Frances, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Born April 10th 1948 to Andrew and Mary, alongside his twin brother Andy, John grew up in the East End of Fort William with his sisters, Delores, Elenor (Elfie) and Marlene (Cookie). John attended Ogden Street School and Selkirk High School. Throughout his early years, into his teens, John worked side by side at Star Bakery with his Dad and brother Andy. In 1967 John moved to Sault St. Marie to attend Cambrian College, graduating with an Electronic Data Processing degree. After graduating, John returned home, and started his career with Emco Western Supplies in August of 1970. John had a long and enjoyable career as Branch Manager for the Thunder Bay/Dryden area, forming many close friendships with co-workers and customers along the way. John worked 41 years for Emco before his retirement at the end of December, 2011.

John met his first wife, Catherine (Brown) in 1971, they fell in love, and married in March of 1975. John and Cathy lovingly raised their two children, Chris and Mandy. As a family, they enjoyed spending time camping and fishing creating wonderful lasting memories. John and Cathy celebrated together the marriage of their daughter Mandy in 2003. John loved his wife Cathy until her passing in the summer of 2004.

John met his second love Catherine (Woroniuk) in 2005, and married in September 2007, forming a blended family with Cathy's children Adam, Josh and Jenna. John and Cathy lived life, and laughed a lot. They enjoyed many firsts together playing golf, travelling, fishing, camping, the birth of their three grandchildren. After retirement, John and Cathy became snowbirds for a few years travelling to Florida. John, who once couldn't imagine spending his days leisurely lounging on a beach with a book, found himself unexpectedly relishing the peacefulness of just that.

John's affection for his grandchildren knew no bounds, he was a tender-hearted grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with them. Fishing and camping adventures were among their shared joys, alongside playful wrestling, dancing, and singing. John had a great passion for cooking. He delighted in preparing his famous spaghetti and meatballs just for them. John was kept busy with all three grandchildren's hockey games, cheering from the stands. He was a true hockey grandpa, their biggest fan. Watching them grow up filled John with immense pride.

John will be remembered for his loving, caring soul. He wore his heart on his sleeve, always ready to lend a helping hand to both family and friends. John's absence will be profoundly felt, particularly the loss of his amazing spirit, sense of humor, and infectious laughter. His passions music, cooking, gardening, and even joyfully riding his lawnmower were a reflection of his zest for life. His deep appreciation for his wonderful neighbors led to lasting friendships. John's unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered.

There will be a Celebration of Life drop in for John on March 22nd, 2024 from 11:00am - 2:00pm at the Ramada by Wyndham Thunder Bay Airlane Hotel in the Madrid Room.

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation in support of the Northern Cancer Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpler Times Cremation Centre, 575 Central Avenue, Thunder Bay.

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com