Giovanni De Vita

Giovanni (John) De Vita

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father and Nonno, Giovanni De Vita.

He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Giuseppina and his children Carla, Dan (Marian), Rita (Paul) Roberts and four adored grandchildren Maria, Angela, Jason and Jordan. Also mourning his loss are siblings Erminia and Fausto (Alba) De Vita, sister-in-laws Antonietta and Ermilinda and their respective families.

Giovanni was born in Bagnoli del Trigno, Italy on February 12th, 1931. He immigrated to Canada in April 1951 and started his 40 year career with the Powell River company on May 1st, 1951. He held many positions but is best remembered as "Johnny" the respected Jiggerman in G4 and as a relief supervisor.

Dad was a proud, yet humble man with a quick wit and a bold sense of humour. He welcomed everyone into his home and enjoyed sharing his wisdom and life experiences with those who had the privilege to be in his company.

Dad reveled in family time, especially maintaining traditions such as wine and sausage making, hunting, and of course gardening. Dad took pride in his perfectly manicured garden, while always taking especially good care of the fig, chestnut and hazelnut trees. Dad loved to share the fruits of his labour with family and friends.

Dad was a 72 year member of the Italian Community Club and helped build their hall. He was also a founding member of the Gardens of Rest Mausoleum at the Powell River Cemetery where he was laid to rest.

Dad loved life and enjoyed traveling to many places around the world. Including several trips back to his homeland in Italy. However, their home away from home was the Four Paddles in Waikiki, where they met life long friends spanning over 33 years.

The family would like to acknowledge the compassionate care Dad received from Dr. Charles Van Zyl, and the comfort and support from the staff at Powell River General Hospital. Even in his last days he was making new friends from his hospital bed and became especially fond of "Barry the Greek" and looked forward to his visits.

Thank you Father Patrick Tepoorten for spiritual support and the Assumption Parish for their prayers. A very heartfelt thank you to our Zio Fausto, dad's brother and best friend who was with us everyday.

Funeral services were held on August 14, 2023 at the Church of the Assumption.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Giovanni's honour to the Powell River Hospital Foundation or the Four Tides Hospice Society.
https://www.prhospitalfoundation.com https://fourtideshospice.org/