John Anderson Obituary
John Leslie Peter Anderson, lovingly known as Jack or Doc, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on December 26, 2025, at Irene Thomas Hospice, at the age of 77. He faced his September 26, 2025, diagnosis of esophageal cancer with courage and dignity.
Born and raised in Ladner, Jack was the cherished son of the late Dr. Robert Northey Anderson and Marguerite Louise Anderson (nee Irvin), and a devoted younger brother to Bob Anderson (Joan Dublanko). From an early age, Jack displayed a strong work ethic, an easy connection with people, and a deep sense of community.
Jack shared 58 years together and 45 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Laurie-Lee Anderson (nee Ashmore), whom he met in 1967 and married in 1980. Together, they built a strong and loving home and raised two daughters, of whom Jack was endlessly proud.
He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Robyn Anderson (Ben Ingram) and Devon Anderson, and his grandsons, Smith and Holt Stanley, who brought him immense joy. Jack also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Linda Ashmore (nee Davis), his beloved nephews, Aaron and Shawn Ashmore, and his many loving cousins, all of whom held a special place in his heart. Having lived his entire life in Ladner, Jack also leaves behind many lifelong friendships.
Jack's life was defined by hard work, kindness, sharp wit, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. He began working as a commercial fisherman in his teens, where he first learned how to cook-a skill born of necessity that quickly became a lifelong passion. That talent stayed with him throughout his life, and Jack became known as an incredible cook, taking great pride and joy in the kitchen. Sharing meals was one of the many ways he showed love, and those lucky enough to sit at his table knew his cooking was as good as his company.
Jack later continued his career as a paper maker at Island Paper Mills/Domtar and went on to serve his community for many years as a bus driver with Coast Mountain Bus Company and Delta Academy. No matter the role, Jack carried himself with pride, reliability, and genuine care for others.
If you knew Jack, you knew he had time for everyone. He was deeply connected to his friends and neighbours and never passed up an opportunity for conversation. His wit was quick and sharp, something he delighted in keeping honed through daily crosswords, Wordle, brain games, and a lifelong love of reading. Books were a constant companion, and his intelligence and dry humour were hallmarks of who he was.
A defining and deeply admirable chapter of Jack's life began on April 22, 1992, the day he became sober. This was a commitment he worked extraordinarily hard at and upheld with quiet determination, courage, and integrity. His sobriety was a source of great personal pride and strength, and it stands as a powerful testament to his resilience and character.
In retirement, Jack discovered a deep love for travel, with Laurie always at his side. Together, they embraced bucket list adventures that took them all over the world, creating memories that became some of their most treasured chapters together.
Jack will be remembered for his warmth, his steady presence, his sharp mind, and the way he made people feel seen and heard. His life was deeply rooted in family, community, and kinship-and in the quiet strength of a man who did the hard work and showed up every day.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary teams at BC Cancer, the N52 Palliative Care Unit at Surrey Memorial Hospital, and Irene Thomas Hospice for their compassion, dignity, and exceptional care.
A service and celebration of Jack's life will be held in Ladner, with details to follow.
Published by Delta Optimist from Jan. 8 to Feb. 7, 2026.