John "Bernie" PYKE

It is with sadness that our family announces the passing of John " Bernie" Pyke on April 6, 2023, in his 83rd year. John is predeceased by his beloved wife Lynn Clarke, his parents John "Jack" Pyke and Mary Theresa (nee McDonald) of London, Ontario, (originally from Glace Bay, Nova Scotia), and his siblings Daniel "DK" McDougall of Cobourg, Ontario, his twin sister Bernice McAffer of London, Ontario, and James "Jimmy" Pyke of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Brother to John (Tini) of London, Ontario, Victoria Barton (William) of London, Ontario, and Les (Madeleine) of Kitchener, Ontario. Brother-in-law to Viola McDougall of Cobourg, Ontario, Dennis McAffer of London, Ontario, and Diane Pyke of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Uncle and cousin to many in both Nova Scotia and Ontario. John joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1960 and dedicated over 35 years in this role before retiring from CFB Trenton. He has served in most of the Canadian provinces as well as many countries including Egypt, Germany, France, England, and is a Veteran of the Gulf War. He achieved the rank of Master Warrant Officer, and as such, worked with, and had lifelong friendships with many members of the military. John is well known for his many stories of his military career. His sense of humor and his sense of loyalty will be remembered. John loved to fish and spent many hours pursuing this sport all his life. John also loved to recount stories of his childhood in Nova Scotia. Many of the adventures with his brother Jimmy provided much laughter for his friends and family. John spent many vacations with Jimmy's family in Nova Scotia where the adventures continued to provide much laughter. He was also close with his brother D.K. (the former Police Chief of Cobourg) and had a special closeness to his twin Bernice. In his later years, he developed a close relationship to his youngest brother Les, with whom he enjoyed many trips. Many amusing stories have been shared about football trips to Penn State and cottage stays with the boys. He also enjoyed the friendship of new neighbours in Kitchener, Laurie and especially George who shared their time and laughter with John. Sadly, John had dementia and passed away from age related illness. Many thanks to the staff on "Speed River" floor at Hilltop Manor in Cambridge and the doctors and nurses on the second floor of Cambridge Memorial Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. In place of a funeral, John's wish is for family and friends to raise a glass of their favourite drink in his honour. His ashes will be distributed in the areas of Canada he felt were special to him at a later date. He will be interred in the Military Cemetery in Ottawa.

Visit www.henrywalser.com for John's Memorial.