JOHN JEOFFREY BULL

"Life is easy; just be nice to people and good things happen."

John Bull passed away Sunday, February 9, 2025, in Florida. His passing was sudden, but peaceful. He was 86 years old.

John was greatly loved. He was proud to be considered an honest and respectful man, whose word was his bond. Everyone he knew as either friend, colleague or client knew they could trust his advice. He did not gossip or speak badly about anyone and always tried to do his best for anyone who sought him out.

John leaves behind his best friend and love of his life for the last 60 years, Fruji; his son, Stephen; grandchildren, Leo, Orson, Simon and Charlotte; and his dear daughter-in-law, Julia Rhodes. He was predeceased by Jeoffrey, his oldest son.

John was born in Auckland, New Zealand, to William Fredrick Bull and Marjorie Eoll, Canadian diplomats. He was the third of four children: Roger, Fredrica Fleming (deceased), and Susan Spencer. He leaves behind many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Once upon a time, John was fondly referred to in the financial community as "Mr. Ottawa." His involvement in the securities industry and the Ottawa community was legendary. On February 16th this year, John would have celebrated his 55th year with RBC Dominion Securities Inc. He always said that he wanted to leave his office feet first; it came very close to being that way. John, at age 86, was still at his job every day, advising and helping his clients and colleagues.

John was a Director of the firm when DS was a private company. He held the role of Manager at Ottawa Main for many years. He helped found and build the RBC-DS Ottawa office at 90 Sparks Street.

Over the years, he built a large practice and supported generations of clients that eventually would all become his friends. He loved chatting with them. He worked tirelessly for them because he cared about their success and financial well-being. He had a passion for the market. He loved talking about companies, and shared his knowledge with everyone that would take the time to listen. He was interested and curious about everyone he met and would always give the time, when asked, to share some advice or offer an opinion.

John worked with many charities over the years. He was a strong supporter of the Ottawa Hospital and the Heart Institute. He donated to many charities that came calling; he was once on the Foundation Board of the Royal Ottawa Hospital. At work, he began an annual Christmas gift exchange for underprivileged children who would not receive presents. Over the last 30+ years, RBC Dominion Securities employees have donated more than 1000 toys.

Leader, philanthropist, businessman, mentor and adventurer: John loved to travel with his wife, Fruji. They visited many places where no one dares venture today. They bareboat sailed many of the world's famous sailing grounds. John sailed across the Atlantic Ocean in a 60-foot sailboat with a few buddies as a favour to the owner of the boat. This was one of his favorite adventures. He loved skiing the big mountains, and took the whole family to Vail, Colorado, in 2016. But his favourite place was Mont Ste Marie in Quebec. Here, he almost single-handedly built a lovely chalet. His sons learned to ski there, and as time went by, the chalet became the family place to gather, especially at Christmas. John was passionate about the game of golf. He was president of the Royal Ottawa Golf Club from 1998 to 2000, and a member since his early 20s. He was not a scratch player, but he didn't care. He just loved playing.

John was a father to two sons and many grandchildren. He cherished his family, his wife and his wonderful life. He will be with us always, always loved and cherished in return. He often remarked to Fruji: can you believe how lucky a life we've lived! In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ottawa Hospital or the Ottawa Heart Institute.

John Bull's family wishes to announce that there will be a memorial gathering to remember John on April 19, 2025, from 2-5 p.m. at the Royal Ottawa Golf Club, Aylmer Road, Quebec.