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John Pollen Obituary
(1961 - 2024)
In Loving Memory
John Pollen, aged 62, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2024, in Victoria, BC after a courageous battle with ALS. Throughout his journey with ALS he was cared for by his loving wife, Shara, while surrounded by love from his large extended family. We want to express our deep appreciation for the care and support provided by the wonderful staff at the Royal Jubilee Hospital.
John was born on December 1, 1961 in Vancouver, BC, to his delighted parents, Mary Ann and the late Peter Pollen. He grew up in a close-knit family with his three older sisters, Jane, Dana, and Kathy. Their childhood memories were filled with laughter and unwavering support for one another, followed by a move to Victoria which would become a very special place for the family.
John attended Glenlyon Norfolk School in Victoria for his younger years before going to Appleby College in Oakville, ON, where he forged many long lasting friendships at his home away from home. From there he graduated from Queen's University with a Degree in Economics.
Following in his father's footsteps, John became involved in the automobile business where he and his longtime business partners, Michael Stevulak and Brian Elmhirst, owned and operated one of the most successful Mazda dealerships in Canada for over 35 years. John served on the Mazda Dealer Council where he developed great friendships with many fellow dealers and Mazda Canada staff.
John was a great athlete who excelled in many sports. As an adult he was passionate about squash, golf, soccer and particularly tennis.
John was a devoted husband to his wife, Shara, and he was a guiding light for his three children, Alexandra, David, and Max. For all of John's accomplishments his children were always his greatest source of pride. His legacy will live on in them. John's most favourite role was that of being a father and step-father where he could always be seen at the side of a rugby pitch, basketball game or soccer pitch. John warmly embraced Shara's children, Ethan and Wil, who he knew through most of their young lives.
John's battle with ALS was marked by unwavering courage and grace. Despite the numerous challenges he remained positive, finding solace in family gatherings and the simple pleasures of life.
John is survived by his loving wife, Shara; children, Alexandra, David and Max; Shara's children, Ethan and Wil; mother, Mary Ann Pollen and sisters, Jane (Ross Woodland), Dana (Michael Stevulak) and Kathy (Michael Jawl). He was a favourite uncle to many nieces and nephews who always appreciated his sense of humor. His memory will be forever etched in our hearts.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC, on Friday, May 3rd at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ALS Association in honour of John's fight against the devastating disease.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.McCallGardens.com
Memories and Condolences
for John Pollen
16 Entries
Jeanne Good
June 4, 2024
I was very sorry to hear of John's passing.
In September 1989, John facilitated the trade-in of my large vehicle from AB for a 1990 Mazda 323 Hatchback. It is still on the road in wonderful condition, thanks to John's longtime employees and the exceptional service they have provided for 35 years. I had great respect for John and Pacific Mazda.
Monica Pozzolo
May 13, 2024
I was so saddened to hear about John's passing and, being overseas, unable to attend his memorial.
I remember John and the Pollens when we all lived on the same street when I arrived from Italy with my family. They always made us feel welcome and at home in a new country.
And then as customers and friends.
John was always kind, gentle, and sweet and had the best smile.
My condolences to the whole family. He leaves a big void.
Pauline Hedger
May 5, 2024
So sorry to hear John has passed. He was always such a gentleman .. friendly, humble and classy. He will be missed. Condolences to his family and friends. Pauline Hedger (Stangeland) former squash player.
Lindsey Hoole (Kamphof)
May 4, 2024
I was a nanny for Ali, David, and Max Pollen when they were very young (Max was born just after I began caring for them). John always lovingly called Ali 'sweetie', and David and Max 'buddy'. When I became a mother, I often expressed my affection using the same terms of endearment with my young children. Every time I did, I thought of John. He was a wonderful father, and my heart goes out to all of you during this incredibly difficult time. Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead.
St. Michaels University School
May 3, 2024
We want to extend our deepest sympathies to John and Shara’s immediate and extended families, so many of whom are valued members of our St. Michaels University School community. Sending love and strength in the days, months and years to come.
St. Michaels University School
May 3, 2024
We want to extend our deepest sympathies to John and Shara´s immediate and extended families, so many of whom are valued members of our St. Michaels University School community. Sending love and strength in the days, months and years to come.
Sandy Drever (Dixon)
May 1, 2024
I remember John fondly. At both Glenlyon Norfolk School and at the Victoria Squash Club. My condolences to the whole family. Gone too soon.
David Schneider
May 1, 2024
John was a kind and gentle soul who was an amazing father and a wonderful mam to his family and friends.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and he will be deeply missed by all.
David Schneider and Julie Mathews
Greg and Laura Dowell
May 1, 2024
So sad to read of John's passing. Sending sympathy and condolences to the Pollen family.
Carolyn Graham
May 1, 2024
Sending much love and cherished memories to the Pollen family. Our hearts ache for you. John shared such love for his family, integrity, kindness, a sense of fun and contributed so much to the community. The Graham´s
Walter and Wanda Salmaniw
April 30, 2024
Our deepest condolences. John's passing came as quite a shock to both of us.
Glenlyon Norfolk School Alumni Engagement and Advancement Staff
April 30, 2024
On behalf of Glenlyon Norfolk School (Glenlyon Preparatory School), we send our deepest sympathies on your recent loss. Sincerely, the staff of Alumni Engagement & Advancement.
Derek Wilkinson
April 30, 2024
John was a classmate of mine at Glenlyon, and a fierce running competitor. One vivid memory of him was when we ran in the Basil Parker cross country race, and John attempted to do the first stream crossing on the upstream side of the beaver dam. He jumped into the creek and promptly tripped in the thick thick mud, re-emerging with the front half of his head liberally coated in gooey black mud. He then ran the entire rest of the race with that mud mask as it was just too sticky to scrape off.
Alexa Lindroos
April 30, 2024
Our hearts go out to all of you.
Sending love and condolences.
Alexa, Kris, Jane and Michael Lindroos
Jane and Peter Gardiner
April 30, 2024
It is great sadness that we learned of the passing of John. We send our love and condolences to Shara, the children, and the whole extended Pollen family.
Jane and Peter Gardiner
Harry Hitchman
April 30, 2024
Condolences to John´s family!
I was aware of John´s recent struggle with ALS, but am still shocked & saddened by news of his passing. Very sad! RIP JP!
Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results
Memorial Events
for John Pollen
Funeral services provided by:
The Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC V8Y 1B4