98 Entries
Jeff McGiverin
December 13, 2014
Thank you John. Your efforts are profoundly appriciated.
A B
December 13, 2014
May God's love be with you forever.
mark chudleigh
October 16, 2014
dear the fawcett famlty
he will be miss
markc
October 7, 2014
Oct 7/14 - Dear Carol and family....we just heard this sad news from our daughter in Victoria who also just heard... we have nothing but fun and terrific memories of John...we will never forget fun times we had while he lived in Vernon area.... may Peace be with you.. Dave and Lorraine Brotsky (Vernon)
Jason
September 4, 2014
I was a band student with Mr. Fawcett for 3 years during the late 80s. He was inspiring, passionate and fun, and through his own enthusiasm encouraged us to try more, to work hard and to be passionate about music and life. Know that he made a difference in my life, and many others.
September 2, 2014
To the Fawcett family
I knew John as a thoughtful, supportive Faculty of Education colleague and courageous teacher.
My thoughts go with him and his family.
Sandra Umpleby, EPLS
Alan Travers
September 1, 2014
I'll always remember our nights playing guitar with John and my dad. I feel lucky to have gotten to be as close to John as I was. Gone but far from forgotten. Love to Carol, Morgan and James.
Catherine Minvielle
September 1, 2014
Dear Carol and family: So very sorry for this immense loss in your lives. My prayers will be with you.
Colleen Cook
August 28, 2014
May your memories fill you with the love he shared with you. You are in my thoughts, big hugs to all.
Colleen
Linda Schurman
August 28, 2014
We were so saddened to hear of John's passing. We remember our last meeting at the Victoria airport when he and you, Carol, had just arrived from Maui and looked so well. We had just flown in from Mexico, I think, or Honolulu. Our hugs will be long remembered. We were impressed that John remembered the names of our kids and asked about them. John was a great teacher of Kara and Joel, at Landsdowne Jr. Sec. and an inspiration to music teachers, such as myself, in the district. I also enjoyed being part of your lives as the music teacher of Morgan and James at Torquay Elementary. Our sincere sympathy to all the family, Linda and Sandy Schurman
Fred & Rebecca Moroz
August 28, 2014
To the Fawcett family,
So sorry to hear of Johns passing. Over the years, Grant & Hiroko have shared many wonderful stories of John, including time spent together on Maui. Our thoughts are with you.
Ane Marie Bennett
August 28, 2014
Carol and family, We are deeply saddened to hear of John's passing. He was a remarkable man, wonderfully talented and full of energy and humour. It was my absolute pleasure to work with him as an administrative teammate. He was a very special person and we shall remember him with his jazz hat on! Many condolences. Ane Marie and Tom Bennett, Nanaimo, B.C.
Marie Jennings
August 27, 2014
Carol and family: My deepest sympathy to you all in the loss of your husband and father. It was an honor to work with John. As a past member of the Colquitz Office Staff during John's "Vice Principal" years, I was well aware of the caring and understanding way in which John handled those who passed through his office door. He was always available to give of his time to students and staff, alike if the need arose. Such a dedicated man to his music, his career as an educator, all of which he carried out with apparent calm. A remarkable person who I came to regard with the utmost respect. He will be truly missed by co-workers and students. My thoughts go out to you all at this most difficult time.
Brian & Lorraine White
August 26, 2014
It is rare in one's lifetime to enjoy the friendship of such a positive and upbeat person as John. John was so passionate about life in general and, in particular, about his family, education, music and travel – his enthusiasm was inspiring! He had such a great sense of humour and always saw the glass half full. Even during the most difficult times during his illness, John kept a positive, cheerful attitude. We will miss John's friendship here on Earth but will always treasure our memories of the many great times and laughs we shared – usually with wine in hand and a little jazz music in the background. Our deepest condolences and much love to Carol, Morgan and James.
August 25, 2014
Sending loving thoughts and hugs to all of John's family.
Kelly Billow
Donna Montgomery
August 17, 2014
My thoughts and sincerest sympathy go out to John's family. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. John was truly a remarkable man and he was respected by students, staff, and parents, alike. I had the pleasure of knowing John in a variety of roles: as a teacher, as a proud dad, as the principal at my children's school, and as a School District Administrator. John was, at all times, a person who led with his heart and inspired the best in everyone. He fought Multiple Myeloma bravely (I know this battle, as my sister is in the midst of it, and it is not for the feint of heart). I send huge hugs to all who feel his loss, especially to Carol, Morgan and James.
August 15, 2014
We are indeed very sorry to hear of John's passing. Dave and I went to UVIC with him all those years ago. Thinking of your family, with prayers,
David and Charlotte Harvey, Baku, Azerbaijan
Dama Hanks
August 14, 2014
I am so sad to learn of Dr. Fawcett's passing. As a musical theatre teacher at Mt. Doug, John was wonderful and supportive to work with, always interesting and humorous.
Always striving to make things better for the whole school, and especially the arts. What a loss to the educational community and for his great family and friends. My deepest condolences, but you can truly say that he made a difference. He left this earth a better place. Rest in peace, John.
Alan Penty
August 13, 2014
Dear Carol and family
John was the Vice Principal at Lansdowne Jr. Secondary when I was first hired into a 'high school' job. There was so much I didn't understand and I think it showed on my face. John took time to showme how things worked and he encouraged me to join ABCDE. I admired his involvement in the organization and worked toward also being president. John was a warm, positive and thoughtful role model to me and to many others. He will be truly missed. We are thinking of you Carol.
Alan Penty and Pam Slyth
Jennifer Cockerill
August 11, 2014
I remember when Mr Fawcett first started teaching music at Lansdowne Secondary. That would have been about 27 years ago. I was in his classes the 3 years following... He really had a true enthusiasm that made music a lot of fun for all his students...along with a great sense of humour! I'm sure there are many who have fond memories of him.
Kirsten Harris
August 10, 2014
Dear Carol, Morgan and James,
I only had the extreme good fortune to work with John for a very short time in his role as District Principal, Student Services. He believed so strongly in supporting students, especially when they may have temporarily lost their way. He was both firm and kind, the best attributes an adult can have when working with children.
He was also an amazing man to work for. He welcomed me with open arms, patiently explaining the hows and whys of the Student Support department and he helped me to become a much more empathetic person.
I understand your sadness at this time and I am also missing him very much. I hope all these amazing stories people are writing here will help to heal your hearts over time.
Gillian Gibbs-Gray
August 9, 2014
Like many who have written here, Mr Fawcett inspired my love of music, supporting me to learn to my greatest potential. He would always treat each person as the most important in the room. I was saddened to hear of his passing and wish his family to know how much of a difference he made in the lives of so many students. (Lansdowne '85-'88)
Jeanny van Duyvenvoorde
August 9, 2014
I send my sincere condolences for your loss, John will be greatly missed by everyone.
Judy Bellis
August 8, 2014
To John's family : So very sad to hear about your loss. I first knew John when my kids were attending Lansdowne and later worked with him when he was President of IPSEA. he was an incredibly able administrator and brilliant teacher. It was my privilege to have had the opportunity to learn from him.
August 8, 2014
Remembering our wonderful times at summer institute in Florida .. Lots of hugs Carol ..Bill and Pam MacGregor - Abbotsord
Pat Henman
August 8, 2014
So sad to hear of John's passing. John was a very valued and well liked fellow student during our Nova Southeastern days together. My thoughts are with John's family and will listen to some good music and sip a good scotch in his honor.
Janet MacKenzie
August 8, 2014
Dear Carol,
I was so sorry to read of John's passing. Please know that I am thinking of you, the kids, and your Mom at this sad time.
Janet
Matthew J
August 7, 2014
Dr Fawcett was a wonderful educator and a friend if you needed one. He will be sorely missed but I will always remember his encouraging words and kind soul. To his family, my deepest condolences, John was one of a kind.
Lansdowne Student
August 6, 2014
I'm sorry to hear about this great loss. Mr. Fawcett instilled a love of jazz and improv in so many of us and his enthusiasm and professionalism were incomparable. He was able to handle tricky situations with humour and aplomb, and he was quick to offer deserved praise. He treated us like real musicians, not students. He was a huge influence on many.
Plus, he was funny. I'll never forget him trying do the hand movements to "2 legit 2 quit" that cracked up the entire early '90s class. He was awesome.
Victoria Operatic Society
August 6, 2014
On behalf of the Victoria Operatic Society, please accept our condolences on the passing of John. He did a number of shows with us and was a valuable asset to VOS. We are very sorry to hear of his passing.
August 6, 2014
Carol, Morgan & James. We were shocked and saddened to read of John's passing at such a young age. He was a talented musician and teacher and contributed so much to the community over the years.
Hadn't seen him in years, but remember him from ABCDE & VOS days and his group Mizter Rezizter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Maureen & Neil Fatin
carole burnfield
August 5, 2014
sorry to hear of johns passing, my thoughts and prayers are with you all carol
Jane Jacek
August 5, 2014
I was saddened to read of John's passing. My condolences to you Morgan and your family. He was an amazing educator, administrator and district principal.
artsREACH painting workshop (Photo credit: Times Colonist)
Marilyn Sing
August 5, 2014
The artsREACH program will be forever grateful for the support John provided to us when we were getting our program up and running.
Under his leadership as principal, Quadra Elementary School participated in our pilot program and hosted the official launch of the program in 2005.
In his speech at the launch he stated, "One of the most important gifts we can give children is the ability to express thoughts, emotions, ideas and feelings".
In 2007, he joined our Board and served for three years to help us stabilize, expand the program and ensure that more children would have the opportunity to express themselves through art.
John will be greatly missed, but his vision and commitment to the benefits and value of the arts will always be remembered.
Andrew Highson
August 5, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear about Mr. Fawcett's passing. He was our band teacher in the late eighties/early nineties. I learned so much from him. He was always a favourite teacher of mine. He mad a huge impact on so many young minds, and lit the spark for my love of music today.
Pat Javorski
August 5, 2014
Carol, I was so sad to hear of John's passing. I didn't know John well but remember first meeting him when I had international students. I was always impressed at how he truly listened and made each person feel that their contribution was important. What a great impact he had on so many people. May you at this difficult time find peace and comfort in the love of those who care about you.
Brigitte Klein-Lloyd
August 4, 2014
I am visiting from Montreal for a few days and just heard the news. Thinking of you Carol, and your family. John will certainly be missed. I have such fond memories of our time at Lansdowne as young teachers. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Kogie Pillay
August 3, 2014
Carol, my deepest condolences and sympathies to you and your family. Treasure all the wonderful memories you shared with John and hold them close to your heart. May God bless your family and give you strength during this very difficult time.
Gary Ruperts
August 3, 2014
The world is diminished by the loss of one of Victoria's best people. John was a man with talent, compassion and a great sense of humour. He will be missed by all of his friends, but especially by his children and his lovely wife, Carol. While he is gone too soon, he will live on in the memories of all those he touched.
Ann Griffith
August 3, 2014
Carol, thinking of you. Much love.
Beryl Leavett-Brown
August 3, 2014
Dear Carol,
My heart goes out to you and your family. John was such a pleasure to know and to work with all those years ago at the Int'l. Student Program. We both experienced such challenges during that time and it was a great relief to talk to him about what we had both been through years later when he was principal of Mt. Doug. I will always remember him with such fondness and respect. His was a life well lived and that is a true blessing, not bestowed on everyone.
Melinda Budgell
August 3, 2014
I did not know John well, but everything I knew I liked and respected. An inspirational and dedicated educator, musician, father and husband, John was a good man. Carol, James and Morgan, my prayer is that the memories and love John shared will guide you through your deep sadness.
David Newell
August 3, 2014
I truly loved John. He was always so kind to me, and enthusiastic! He is still very much alive in our hearts! David Newell, Teacher, Mt. Douglas High School
Mt Doug Concert, December 15, 2009
August 3, 2014
Mt Doug Concert, December 15, 2009
August 3, 2014
Mt Doug Concert, December 15, 2009
August 3, 2014
Jan Hare
August 2, 2014
Carol. My heartfelt condolences go to you and your family. I didn't know John well but remember him fondly from the trips to Vancouver to the Queen E shows. Reading the comments here show what a great impact he had on so many people. I'm sure it helps during this tough time. Big hugs.
Matt McNichol
August 2, 2014
To John Fawcett's family: My thoughts are with you, and I am very sorry for your loss. An amazing man with character, who was very well liked and respected. Rest in Peace John.
August 2, 2014
Heartfelt condolances...our thoughts are with you. Douglas and Tracy Shaw
Tiffany Taylor (nee) Aitken
August 2, 2014
I had often thought of Mr. Fawcett as my children began to pursue their own interests in music. I had come to realize, over the years, that the passion that had grown in me as a child had been passed onto them. A spark flamed by his inspiration & encouragement. I am grateful for the teachings, the patience , and the efforts he put into us, as his students. He was an amazing teacher who inspired us all in so many ways. He gave me the opportunity to explore music in many forms, and I took great pleasure in learning everything he had to offer as a teacher and a mentor. I was lucky enough to speak to him about 2 years ago. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to tell him how I felt, and share a few stories of years gone by. The music world has lost an amazing soul, RIP John Fawcett.
August 2, 2014
August 2, 2014
August 2, 2014
Pete Anslow
August 2, 2014
My heart felt condolences , he was an amazing man , thankfully my two youngest children got to experience his education and influence in their own musical journey. He will be deeply missed by many I am sure , if there really is a heaven I know he will be playing in that band...
Christie (Branson) Fraser
August 1, 2014
I will always remember grade 8 drama as the best class I ever took in school. Mr. Fawcett had a way to inspire and motivate creativity and excellence. He made us all want to be better. His dedication to the arts and to his students shone through from daily lessons to the fabulous productions. I will never forget Godspell, Fame, the B. C. Festival of the Arts and our trip to New York all of which were made possible and fabulous by him. May his many talents and gifts he shared bring light and smiles for his family at this saddest of times.
Former Lansdowne Student
August 1, 2014
Sorry to hear of Mr. Fawcett's passing. I still remember him after all these years (LJSS circa early 90's), which to me speaks volumes of the impact he made. Deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Heidi Benetti
August 1, 2014
Carol, I am shocked and saddened to hear this news! I have such fond memories of working with John and the students during those long ago days at Lansdowne Junior High with the dance program and those amazing shows he put on! So fun!! He was truly a gifted educator and had a profound impact on every life he touched. I hope your faith, family, friends and wonderful memories provide some sort of comfort during this difficult time.
Hugs, Heidi (Vanden-Bulck) Benetti
Robin Poirier
August 1, 2014
Sad to hear of his passing... My heart goes out to Carol and his family. Many great memories from my LJSS days.
August 1, 2014
Carol
I was so sorry to read of John's passing. He was a talented, special person in the field of education and fine arts. Cherish the wonderful memories you spent as a family here and in Maui.
thinking about you
Allison
August 1, 2014
Carol
I am so very sorry to read of John's passing. His talents and kind heart will be remembered.
take care of you and your family
Allison
Jo Roueche
August 1, 2014
I am so sad to hear of John's passing. I will always be grateful to him for being such an inspiring, passionate mentor and teacher to me. He had an incredible gift for igniting passion and cultivating talent and leadership in others. To him I owe (like many others) my love of music, theatre and teaching; as a teacher now myself, I often think back to his innovative, creative and "big picture" approach. In spite of the sadness, it's comforting to think of the many, many lives he touched. Carol, Morgan and James - I'm so sorry for your loss.
Minh Do
August 1, 2014
A real sense of community and spirit was established every time Dr. Fawcett accompanied our high school band with his saxophone. He was an inspiring individual who was pleasant and kind to all of the students. I'm glad I got to connect with him after graduating high school. My thoughts go to his family.
Amanda Lince
August 1, 2014
My heart is saddened to read of John's passing, and I wish I could hug Carol right now.
My son and I were both touched by his kindness and musicianship over the years.
I hope to be in Victoria for the service. Much love, and sincerest condolences to Carol, their children, and all those closest to him.
Sylvia McCahon
August 1, 2014
Carol I'm so sorry to hear of John's passing he fought long and hard.My condolences to you and the family. Just remember the love that you shared will always be with you. John was always so kind and greeted you with that great friendly smile. He will be missed.
August 1, 2014
deepest condolences to john's family. our paths crossed many times over the years and there was no disputing john's love for education and music. he will be missed. bevin bigalky
Julie Holden
August 1, 2014
John, (Doc Faws :) Was part of a group that changed my life. He was a positive, caring and always willing to help out. Of course, he was also an amazing educator. While teaching I constantly draw from things I learned under his guidance and mentorship.
Sending thoughts and love to Carol and his family.
Allison Hunt
August 1, 2014
John was a wonderful and talented person. We were good friends during my years in VOS and in Victoria. My condolenses to his family.
Judy Treloar
August 1, 2014
I have wonderful memories of John, and his support during my time as Theatre Consultant for Theatre BC. My condolences to his family.
Rick Griffin
August 1, 2014
To me, John was a colleague, a friend, and an inspiration. He helped me to remember why we became educators, and what our true calling was all about. He led by example, wore his passion on his sleeve, and made a difference to me and many others. My prayers go out to his family.
“… And when great souls die,
after a period peace blooms,
slowly and always
irregularly. Spaces fill
with a kind of
soothing electric vibration.
Our senses, restored, never
to be the same, whisper to us.
They existed. They existed.
We can be. Be and be
better. For they existed.”
Doug & Elaine Bobolo
August 1, 2014
We were so sad to see John,s obituary. I worked with John while he was involved with the international student program and met his wonderful family. John was a class act, honorable and such a gentleman. His family and friends will miss him dearly,
Wendy Ashworth
August 1, 2014
I am sorry to hear about Mr. Fawcett's passing. I look back fondly at my years in band. Now as a teacher myself, I have looked back at him as role-model. He had high expectations of his students but that created a high quality program. My thoughts are with his family.
August 1, 2014
Imagine all the lives this amazing man has touched! For me, from our early days at uvic, to teaching morgie at Montessori, to our lochside ad lib singing gigs, to bocce bbqs, to his annual visits as Santa for our soccer team kiddies, (arriving down the hill on every mode of transport possible!) I will dearly & deeply miss my dear neighbour and buddy johnboy! Love you Carol, Morgie & James, here for you always, Claire, Lou, Amy & Courts xo
Adrienne Christie
August 1, 2014
Carol, Morgan and James, I'm so sorry for your loss. John made a huge and positive impact on my life and I think of him often. My thoughts are with you.
Colquitz Students
August 1, 2014
I remember traveling with Dr. Fawcett during our exchange trip to Japan in 2003. He was such an inspiring, kind, fun Principal! I will always remember him even a decade later and always!
Our condolences to the family.
April Lea
July 31, 2014
Sad to hear of Mr.Fawcett passing away. He was a wonderful teacher. My heart goes out to his friends & family.
July 31, 2014
Carol, Morgan and James, I was so sad to hear of John's passing. It truly was a great honour and privilege to work with such an amazing man. There were a lot of wonderful memories and tones of laughter to be had in the office at Mt. Doug. I will always hold him dear in my heart and wish all of you my thoughts and prayers for the time to come.
Courtney
July 31, 2014
My goodness, what a lovely and special man, thinking of you Carole and family
Alison Gaul
July 31, 2014
I remember him fondly as a great musician and teacher! My best Jr. High memories involve the band trip to the Olympics in Calgary 88. I credit him with turning a half hearted band student (me) into a lifelong lover of music and theatre. My condolences to family, students, colleaugues and friends at this difficult time.
Sri and Sudhakar
July 31, 2014
Our condolences. He was such a great teacher and musician. He will be missed by all his students from Mt.Doug and all parents. Still remember my son playing the saxophone with Dr. Fawcett and Mr Awai. My thoughts are with his family and the students of Mt.Doug.
July 31, 2014
A true Gentleman ~ Was a pleasure working with John.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Dan Mayo
Susan Colonval
July 31, 2014
Carol and family, I am shocked and so sad to hear of John passing away. Although it was a long time ago now I have nothing but great memories of working alongside him at Lansdowne in the music dept. He was always so positive and a get-it-done kind of guy. And I so appreciated his inclusiveness, creating a great supportive atmosphere for all the arts groups at Lansdowne. He was a fine educator and a fun guy. Remembering those music trips to Ketchikan and then to Disneyworld!.. My condolences to Carol and all the family.
Susan Colonval-Klazek (was Munson in those years)
Joan Kotarski
July 31, 2014
The Fairfield Gonzales Community Association wishes to express our appreciation for the work John has done to champion well rounded public education including sound support systems for students. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to his family.
Margot Croft
July 31, 2014
I went to high school and worked as a playground leader with John. Sad to see the end of this journey, but wonderful to hear of his rich achievements. Condolences to John's family, colleagues, and friends.
July 31, 2014
John was a bright spark in my life many, many years ago when we were in our teens. He encouraged me to become a teacher and I went to UVic and have been teaching for 28 years now because of his influence. He inspired me with his love of music and gifted me with my first guitar. He became a family friend and we were always delighted to hear news of his family and career. I am deeply saddened by the world's loss of John's beautiful energy and feel honored to have known him. My thoughts are with his family and close friends who will miss him dearly.
Daphne, Rick, Grayson, Arielle, & Rudy Andrews
July 31, 2014
Carol, Morgan & James:
John was a very loved man; devoted father and husband, and a wonderful musician.
May the peace that comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead.
He will be sorely missed.
Our hearts go out to you at this difficult time.
July 31, 2014
Carol and Family,
John was such a nice man and greatly admired by all who spoke of him. He is at peace now, but you are all missing him so much. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time and of course my prayers too.
Your friend,
Louise Upshall
Michelle Hansen
July 31, 2014
Difficult to find the words that measure up to this great loss. John was, and continues to be, an inspiration. I am grateful for knowing him- as a teacher, a musical influence, and as a friend.
Love to Carol & family.
July 31, 2014
I was so sorry to hear about this. I knew John many years ago when he was beginning his career in the Okanagan. He was a good friend to our family. My sincere sympathy with your loss. Margaret Nelson.
Cammy Coughlin
July 31, 2014
John was an amazing educator and person. I feel privileged to have known him. My heart goes out to the family.
Luanne Krawetz
July 31, 2014
Carol and Family. When I saw you and John last week coming into the MacLaurin building to teach his last class he said, "this teaching is keeping me going." No truer words ever spoken!! Rest in Peace, John.
Vivian McCormick
July 31, 2014
John Fawcett changed your day and the world with his peaceful manner. We will miss you.
July 31, 2014
Carol, Morgan and James, so sorry to hear of John's passing. I know in the coming weeks and months you will need to lean and support each other as all the '1st' happen. Plse know that if you need anything at all, you can always count on our family to do whatever may be needed. Much love, Rachael, Steve, Lindsay and Andrea Moir. Much love
Alan Bryce
July 31, 2014
Carol, Morgan, and James: Although these are the saddest of days, when I think of John and the fine times spent with him, a smile emerges. It has been a great honour to have John as a friend with whom I could so readily share ideas, music, and humour.
July 31, 2014
Such a great loss...my heart and thoughts are with you. April Van Laar
Sam Sinclair
July 31, 2014
Our condolences to the family. Sam and Kelly Sinclair
Showing 1 - 98 of 98 results