John Samuel McBride

McBRIDE, John Samuel October 8, 1927 - January 13, 2016 John S. McBride passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospice early on January 13. Born in Deloraine, Manitoba and raised in Semans, Saskatchewan, John's early career with the Toronto Dominion Bank and its predecessors took him to various postings in Western Canada. It also brought him his best work benefit - meeting and marrying his wife of 62 years, Doreen Smith of Winnipeg. John left the bank in 1964 and returned to Victoria with the family and began a successful career as an investment dealer with Midland-Osler and its successors. John was active in many groups, including the Victoria Racquet Club, Boy Scouts, Fairwinds Sailing Club, the Victoria Canoe and Kayak Club, Recreational Canoe Association of BC, Over the Hill Gang Cycling Club, Probus, and RP Foundation Ride for Sight. John's social nature manifested itself on the curling ice, tennis court, bicycle trail or on his cherished travels. Predeceased by brother Bill, sister Norah and wife Doreen. Survived by brother-in-law Ralph Bryanton of Regina and sister-in-law Jessie McBride of Kelowna and their families. Survived on Doreen's side by niece Paula Stutz of Kitchener. Also surviving is son Kevin and wife Darja of Vancouver and son Brent of Victoria. John leaves two step-grandchildren, Maria and Dan Quayle, their mother, Leona Hutton, and three great-grandchildren, Maddison and Dane Quayle and Joe Magi. John took pride in his Irish roots. Like all good Irishmen, he loved sharing a story or telling a joke. The family thanks the staff and residents of The Victorian on Feltham where John had his last home. Thanks also to John's doctors and staff at Royal Jubilee Hospital and his special caregivers from Beacon Community Services especially Agnes. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 29th from 2:00 to 4:00 at The Victorian, 1773 Feltham Road, Victoria. As this son of prairie small towns benefited from the green thumbs of others throughout his life, the family suggests, in lieu of flowers or donations, a strawberry or cherry tomato plant be planted in John's honor this spring.