John Frank Shears Crocker MD

I don't know if the family still reads this but Dr. Crocker was a hero. I was 8 years old when Ritalin went toxic in my system and I was sent to the IWK. Dr. Crocker was my kidney specialist. He always had a smile on my face and as a kid, doctoes aren't so fun... But he was. I liked to call him Dr. Croaker. He thought it was hysterical. Thank you for your kindness and dedication sir. You'll be missed.

DR. CROCKER TREATED 2 OF MY GRANDKIDS FOR KIDNEY DISEASE. HE DIAGNOSED THEM CORRECTLY AND TODAY THEY ARE LIVING HAPPY LIVES. I WILL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL FOR HIS KNOWLEDGE AND CARE. HE WAS VERY CARING.

So very sorry for your loss,Doctor Crocker took care of my son for a long time,he was a great man and Doctor.

My sincere condolences to Dr. Crocker's family.
He took great care of my daughter when she was 2 years old with a serious kidney disease. He was caring and compassionate with an excellent bedside manner, something as terribly worried parents at the time, we greatly appreciated. We are thankful every day that she is now a healthy and bright 19 year old in her second year of university.
Rest in peace and thank you.

Dr Crocker was my Nephrology doctor from the ages of 14-25. He was very special to my family and I he was dedicated to making sure I got the best care and medications to control my high blood pressure.
He got my graduation photo,wedding photo and a photo of my newborn son.
He always told me stories of when he was younger and always put my moms fears to rest.
He was angel in disguise for myself and this world has truly lost a great man.

My deepest condolences go out to Dr. Crocker's family, friends, colleagues, and former patients. I met Dr. Crocker when I was 6 years old and he diagnosed me with Lupus at the IWK. Over the years, he made being sick and scared so much easier and always made me feel as though I would be ok, even in the darkest of times. I remember that he always listened to me, was extremely kind and gentle and called me "rascal". Even as an adult I would return to the IWK to ask his advice on things and he always made time for me. I wish I could have attended his funeral and I hope he knows the enormous positive impact he's had on my life. Truly, the best nephrologist and finest man I ever knew. I'll love and miss you always.

So sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Crocker. We met Dr Crocker when our Son Joshua was only 8 months old. Dr Crocker was always so friendly, great with Joshua and always made Joshua feel special. I remember the twinkle in Dr Crocker's eye when he would say to us " he is some fine boy". He will be sadly missed but never forgotten, my condolences to his wife and family.

If it wasn't for Dr. John Crocker, my son would not be with us today. It is with deep sadness that I only today learned of Dr. Crocker's passing and we are eternally grateful that he was a part of our lives. Our deepest condolences to the entire family.

Carol Ann & Mike Sampson &
Zachary Harvey
Bear River NS

I first met John at Dr. Keith Drummond's lab at the Montreal Children's where I was a nephrology fellow. He had finished his training in Minnesota and was bubbling with enthusiasm about returning to Halifax to continue his research career and set up the first pediatric nephrology program in Atlantic Canada. As the plague of Reye's syndrome became more prominent in the 70's he was at the forefront of basic research into its potential causes, in particular the role of pesticides. His humanity, knowledge, skill and love for the children he cared for over the many years is shown so clearly in the guest book tributes. My condolences to Frankie and the family.

Our deepest sympathies to Dr.Crocker's family. We first met Dr. Crocker when my son was a toddler. We saw him for many years at either the Janeway or IWK. He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. Since we were from Corner Brook he shared many stories with us of growing up here and return visits and also of his family and his house in Mahone Bay. I am so sorry he did not get to spend many years enjoying a well deserved retirement with his family.

I would like to add he was always like grandfather to me after spending 18 years together, he watched me grow , he granted my wish from children's wish foundation and I always imagined visiting him and dr Acott after I was married and had family of my own. I really can't thank him enough and my condolences go out to his family , colleagues and friends and all the patients who knew such a great man . Until we meet again dr John Crocker . Wish I got to go and pay my respects hope you know how much you mean to me.

Dr Crocker saved my life numerous times he was a big part of my life for 18 years he will always be in my heart wish I could made it to pay my respects can't believe he's gone

If it weren't for Dr. Crocker, I probably would not be here today. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Rest assured, he will never be forgotten.

My most sincere condolences to you and your family.John was a friend,and a respected colleague.. Charles Cron Bsc. MD FRCS(C).

My deepest sympathy to Mrs.Crocker and family. I'll always remember Dr.Crocker as totally dedicated to the welfare of his patients and his pursuit of medical and basic research towards that end.
Morris Givner,Halifax,N.S.

Please accept my condolences on the passing of your husband and father. Dr. Crocker was an outstanding doctor, and the impact of his work was truly life-changing for so many of the children he cared for, and their families. We first met Dr. Crocker at the IWK, in 2004 when my daughter was ill. If it hadn't been for Dr. Crocker and Dr. Acott, and their excellent care, my daughter would not be with us today. Dr. Crocker was a fine man, and will be missed.

My fondest memory of Dr Crocker is him tapping me on the shoulder to distract me while slipping his other hand in my pocket for a sucker or candy that he knew was there for the "kids". My sympathies to his family

Dr. Crocker to me and John to some of my colleges will be greatly missed in the Saint John New Brunswick Pediatric department. I have worked with Dr. Crocker since I arrived in Saint John over 20 years ago. I know I speak for the Saint John group when I say he was there for us 100%. He always answered our phone calls with enthusiasm and kindness - no question too stupid! No hour too late! The support and service he gave our patient's with kidney disease was the best. If they needed to be in Halifax there was always room. If patient's or parents needed to talk with him - weekends included - he was always available. His dedication and love for his patient's and nephrology was extraordinary. I will miss you Dr. Crocker!!
Dr.Wendy Alexander and the Saint John group of Pediatricians

I believe the first time I met Dr Crocker was early 1974. I was a scared little girl in the Foster Care system. He was a gentle, kind and caring Dr./person. I remember him with great admiration and the fondness of memories.
My deepest condolences.

Please accept my deepest condolences at this sad time. Dr Crocker was a stellar Physician who dedicated his life to improving the lives of children with renal disease. He always had such respect for the nurses! I will always remember his passion for teaching, his incredible sense of humour and his wonderful smile!

I worked with John as a pediatric resident and as a nephrology fellow. His enthusiasm and example was the thing that convinced me to do nephrology. I met my wife, a nephrology nurse, on 6E. Who can forget his booming laugh, practical jokes, idiosyncrasies and self deprecating humor. We all probably have stories to share. He loved to be reminded about the time he was rounding (typically at 5 AM) and walked into a patient's room, pulling the sheet off the bed to examine the child. However the child was curled up in a chair and the MOM was in the bed ,,, and rather shocked to be woken up in such a manner. He was unusually quiet for the rest of the rounds.
We have many fond memories of him.
Kim and my condolences to Frankie and their family.

It was very saddened to learn of the passing of our distinguished paediatric nephrologist, Dr. John Crocker. John dedicated his professional life in the care of his beloved patients and families and in inspirational scientific research with clinical and basic science colleagues. We shall miss his untiring effort and devotion. Christine and I extend our heartfelt condolence to Frances and members of Family.

Derek and family. So sorry for the loss of your father. It's such a difficult time. Our deepest condolences to all of you and know that you're in our thoughts and in our prayers.

Mark Brockway Micheline and Julian Younker

Sincere sympathy to Dr Crocker's family.I met Dr Crocker at the IWK when I started working in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit many years ago.Dr Crocker would visit the unit around 0615 as he began his work day.He always stopped to chat with the nurses after he saw his patients.He was very dedicated to his profession.I know his patients and families were very fond of him.

Hi Frankie
So sorry to hear of John's passing. I sat behind John for our three years in high school. Unfortunately his work ethic or brilliance did not rub off on me. Of course following high school we were all at Kings together as I am sure you will recall. I was not what you would consider close to John but I was always inpressed by his work ethic, kindness and considernate nature. He was a man to be admired, respected and well liked. I recall with pleasent memories the last time we saw both of you, at our high school renunion in Corner Brook.
Sorry for your loss.

Dear Frances and family

We were saddened to learn of John's death. He was a dedicated physician to many children and families. We extend our deepest sympathies to you and the family on his passing.

Regards, Linda and Jim Smith

John was the heart and soul of paediatric nephrology for many decades. My contact with John was through our mutual interest in kidney transplantation.
He was one of the most dedicated physicians that I have ever met. In addition he was an outstanding researcher and teacher. My condolences to the family.

To the family of Dr. Crocker,
Please accept my most sincere condolences. I was a nephrology patient at the IWK beginning in 2001, and Dr. Crocker was on call the day I was first admitted. He made an eleven year old kid feel safe and taken care of, despite some very traumatic circumstances. I will never forget the kindness and love he showed for me and my family through my long stay at the hospital, and I know this is a feeling shared by other patients throughout his long career of service. He will be missed.

Dear Mrs. Crocker and Family, I am a pediatric nephrologist in Alberta and remember fondly how John led the country for many years in establishing best practices for children with kidney disease. John leaves behind a legacy of setting a culture of continuous improvement for the pediatric nephrology community, always striving for the best care and outcomes for our patients. We were all very fortunate to have known John and his passion for exemplary and innovative care. Sincere condolences for your loss. All the best. Verna Yiu, MD, FRCPC, Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Faculty of Med/Dentistry, University of Alberta

Mrs Crocker and family,
Our newborn daughter was referred to Dr Crocker back in 2004. As scared parents we arrived at the IWK to meet Dr. Crocker. His calm and reassuring demeanor were a blessing to us at a time of worry and uncertainty. While we still visit the IWK twice a year, we have a healthy 12 year old daughter thanks to Dr Crocker's initial care. Thank you Dr Crocker, we are blessed to have known you.
Our sincere condolences to the Crocker family.

Dr. Crocker was a central person in our lives for a few years when your younger daughter had to spend so much time at the IWK. He was a warm, highly skilled professional who supported his patients and their families with a calm, reassuring demeanor. Our sincere condolences to the Crocker family.

We extend our deepest condolences and the Frankie and family. It is now more than 30 years since John persuaded me to bring my family frm Australia to Halifax rather than Toronto to do a research fellowship that led to us making a life change we never anticipated and have been in Canada ever since. His commitment to care and research is truly legendary. His mastery of the long game in practical jokes made every day in his lab an adventure and was the source of stories that will long live on in true Newfie tradition. He will be missed.

Dear Mrs Crocker and family,
I wish to express my sincere condolences. I am Paediatric Nephrologist who started out at Dalhousie as a medical student. John was an eager supporter of my interest in nephrology and paediatrics and was very kind to support my applications for postgraduate training. During the many years after I returned to Canada it was a great pleasure to see John at meetings and chat about the issues that we both found to be so compelling. He was a great champion of children and families and research. I do hope that the memories and accomplishments, both personal and professional, will ease the pain of loss.
Sincerely,
Norman Rosenblum

I worked with Dr Crocker for most of my nursing career. He was a dedicated nephrologist and researcher who advanced nephrology care at the IWK. Dr Crocker touched the lives of many patients and families.He always had stories to tell and spoke dearly about Frankie, his children and grandchildren. My sympathy goes out to his family, friends and the IWK nephrology team.

Margie Probert

Dear Mrs. Crocker, Candice, Stephen, Susan, Derek and family,
My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I have so many happy memories of the spending time in the Crocker household as I grew up. The comments online here speak to the kind of man Dr. Crocker was both professionally and as a family man. He will be missed.
With deepest regards,

Mrs. Crocker & Family,

My son Crewe has been a patient of the Nephrology team at the IWK since he was just a few months old. He adored Dr. Crocker, as did I. Dr. Crocker always made Crewe feel as though he was his favourite patient. When I told him of Dr. Crocker's passing, he was devastated. He did not say "He was my doctor", he said "he was my friend, Mom, and he saved my life". I think that describes how Dr. Crocker's patients felt about him. They considered him a friend, and they had 100% faith and trust in him. Going to see Dr. Crocker was always an appointment we looked forward to. What a wonderful physician, and indeed a wonderful person he was! He will be missed by all who knew him.

My deepest sympathy to you Mrs. Crocker and your family for the loss of Dr. Crocker. It was my great privilege to work on his allied health team at IWK in the past decade. His kindness, extreme caring, generosity of his time and attention to each child, youth and their family members inspired commitment and compassion. No matter how rushed he must have been, he took a few moments to teach, share stories and his many words of wisdom with humour and warmth. In my very limited way, I have also come to understand that his research made our world a better place in which to live. We have lost a great physician, scientist and gentleman of integrity. May peace be with you in your sorrow.

To the family of Dr. Crocker,
We met Dr. Crocker eleven years ago at the IWK, when my daughter was five. His kindness, his jokes, and incredible knowledge will never be forgotten. When I told my daughter of his passing, she said she'll always remember every time we saw him, he looked at me and told me how beautiful she was, and did I know what a lucky mom I was. She once asked me to buy her the Norman Rockwell print of the doctor holding a stethoscope to a child's doll, because it reminded her so much of him. I think now I will. His memory will be a blessing to many. Sincere condolences.

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of such I kind man. I first met him when my daughter became ill. He calmed me when I was the most scared and feeling lost. I will never forget him or all he had done for my daughter Brook.

30 October 2016

Dear Frankie:

Sincere condolences on John's passing, he really made a difference in his chosen subspecialty field and will be long remembered for his dedication to his patients, their families and his colleagues.
Bill Covert
Saint John, N.B.

Mrs. Crocker, Steve, Rosa and family:
I am so very sorry to learn of your Dad's passing. My thoughts are with you all during this most difficult time.
Nicole

To the family, friends and colleagues of Dr. Crocker,
We are deeply saddened to read of his passing. May your memories of cherished moments together and the knowledge of the life changing impact he had on so many children, fill the coming days as you mourn his tremendous loss. The world has lost a brilliant mind and a wonderful man.
We met when our son was an infant. Dr. Crocker was always a constant in Joel's life and he continued to follow Joel on a biweekly basis for 14 years. It is because of his expertise that I will watch my son graduate this year.
Our Deepest Condolences,
Trent, Denise and Joel MacLean

Rip john

Dr Crocker Provided a huge service to Nova Scotia when he stood against chemical spraying of Cape Breton during the spruce budworm in 1970s.It took great courage to take such a public stand .Without his voice spraying would have happened .As a young Minister of the Crown I shall never forget his support. My sympathy to his family. Vincent J Mac Lean

A unforgettable, compassionate, amazing man. There's not to many doctors that gain my entire trust and respect from the second I meet them (and I meet a lot) but he was one of the very first. My daughter spent a lot of time with nephrologist's at IWK but it was Dr. Crocker who originally diagnosed her in NICU. I can remember coming to feed her at 3am to find him at her bedside or in the unit. The nurses spoke fondly of him, saying he was like that. Constantly checking up on his patients. I'll never forget reading his doctors note in her chart the next day "Alyvia is a beautiful, happy little girl...." was the way he started it. He was the first one to reflect HER in his notes and refer to her as more than a patient, a number, or a diagnosis. That was almost 4 years ago and I'll always remember it. My condolences to his wife, children, and all family and friends. You were truly blessed to have such a amazing man, and hero to so many, in your lives. May he always RIP <3

To Mrs. Crocker and family:
I was very saddened to learn of Dr. Crocker's death. I have so many memories of working with him as a fellow. I learned so much from him regarding pediatric nephrology. He was a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am grateful to have spent time with him and I feel I owe him a great deal.

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Sorry to read of Dr. John's death. My condolences to the family. I tried to contact him after his mother's death and left a message but didn't have a reply. Since thatI found the answer to my question. His grandfather Shears, Llewellyn and my grandfather, John, were brothers. I wish that were could have met.
Sharon Shears

Dr. Crocker was, and always will be one of my greatest heroes. I am truly saddened to hear of his passing. I was a patient of his from age 12 to 19, when I finished high school. He had a way of explaining dialysis and kidney disease so that I could understand it, and he always spoke to me before talking to my parents. He always listened to my opinions, and did his best to quell any fears I had about different procedures. I even taught him a few things. This world is less an angel. He will be deeply missed by many.

To Mrs. Crocker and family

Please accept our deepest condolences with the passing of Dr. Crocker.

We first met Dr. Crocker in the care of our son James and over the nearly 18 years he looked after him. We came to admire and respect him greatly for his vast knowledge and compassion. The parents were always included in discussions but he always spoke directly to James. The patient was his main concern. Dr. Crocker will be missed and never forgotten.

Will never forget this man. He saved my daughters life at the age of 18 months. She is now a mother of two wonderful children. He was a great doctor and a wonderful kind man. Will be missed. My condolences to all his family at this time.
Kathy Worley, Indiana, USA.

I am so sorry to hear the passing of Dr. Crocker he was the person that helped me get a kidney transplant back in 1999 and also over looked the operation. I am going to miss him dearly. Thank you for the memories..

I am truly sad to hear of Dr Crockers passing. I have very fond memories of him when I was a patient of his as a child.He was so good to me and I owe him my life. He would allow me to sit on his lap while he would do his paperwork at the nurses station. I always called him Dr Large (my family Dr) and he would always respond.
He visited my family when he heard that my younger sister was in ICU. I'm sure I surprised him when a much older me wrapped arms around him and thanked him for being there.
He will always be remembered.

We are saddened by the news of Dr. Crocker's passing, my son Regan and daughter in law Jessica were patients of his from birth. Never will there be such a kind and caring man such as him. He will be sorely missed by his patients and there parents and will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything Dr. Crocker may you Rest In Peace knowing you are forever in our hearts.....

Carol Ann Pelletier
Saint John, N.B.

Dear family and friends of Dr. Crocker
Sending my deepest condolences to all Dr. Crocker's family, friends, co-workers and patients. Dr. Crocker truly was an amazing and brilliant man. He saved lives of myself and many others. He was a dedicated man to his job, research, students, family and patients. He was always there for me and my family during our time at the IWK on 6 North. He was always available day and night no matter what time it was. Dr. Crocker and his team are my heroes. Their commitment and research and care they have in their patients will never be forgotten. Dr. Crocker is a legend in my books and I will be forever grateful to of had him in my life. I owe you so many cheery blossoms, hugs, and thank yous as well as so much more for saving my life. Rest peacefully my Angel xo

At a time when my family was struggling to come to grips with the knowledge that our newborn son was very sick, Dr. Crocker was always positive and reassuring. He treated Isaac for almost 13 years before he retired and he always made us feel as if Isaac was his one and only patient. We were so blessed, as were so many others, to be under the amazing care of Dr. Crocker. To the Crocker Family, we are so very sorry for your tremendous loss. We will always be grateful for Dr. Crocker's care and support during one of our most difficult times.

To the family of Dr.John Crocker,
Please accept our deepest sympathy at this time of great loss. Our thoughts are with you.. We send you strength, courage and love. Dr. Crocker leaves a legacy of deep accomplishment as well as a beautiful family to carry on for him. May you all find peace and comfort in the days to come. Lynn and Bob Huguet

John was a great colleague and a dedicated physician. As the IWK's first pediatric nephrologist, and a tireless worker, he provided excellent care for our children and families. He also headed an internationally respected research program seeking the cause of the epidemic of Reye Syndrome that threatened so many of our children in the 70s. I have many wonderful memories of working with him. My condolences to Frankie and the family. Phil Bagnell

I am saddened to hear of the death of John. As a colleague in teaching and research for over 25 years, he was an inspiration to us all. His contributions to the world of pediatric medical science will live on for all time. He will be missed by everyone who new him as a physician, researcher or friend.

Dear Frankie and Family
It is a very sad day to hear that John has passed. He was a wonderful teacher, consumate prankster, and drinker of really, really awful coffee. The early morning conferences just outside his lab during my residency and fellowship were rich with great teaching and story telling, often with laughter to the point of tears. He was a force in Nephrology who taught his skills well and always put his patients (and students) first. He will be sorely missed.

Dr Crocker was a joy to work with - with his help we granted many wishes to children through The Children's Wish Foundation

On behalf of the Department of Pediatrics at the IWK Health Centre, we send our deepest sympathy to John's wife Frankie and their four children, grandchildren, and extended family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. On a personal note, reflecting as one of John's former students, residents and colleagues, I have warm memories of a dedicated bedside clinician and scientist. Always affable, available and helpful, no matter what time of the day or night I called him from Cape Breton. A world class consultant's consultant. May the Giant rest peacefully.

Andrew Lynk MD
Head & Chief Pediatrics Dalhousie University & IWK Health Centre
Consultant Pediatrician Cape Breton Regional Hospital

I was sadden to learn of Dr Crockers passing. I worked with him for many years through a project for fingerprinting infants and greatly admired and respected him. My Condolences to his family.
Retired HRP Inspector Ron Grantham

Dr Crocker will be missed throughout halls of the IWK Health Center by his patients and colleagues. This is truly a loss to the medical, and Nephrology community. He was dedicated, thorough, and I always had that sense of security when i attended transplant clinic as one of his patients. His patients ALWAYS came first. He will be missed immensely

Dr. Crocker

I am truly sorry to hear of Dr. Crocker's passing. I first met him as a patient 45 years ago, and adored him as a child. To think he was only 31! He always made me feel important, directly speaking to me, not just my parents, and continued my care long past 16. I had the pleasure of seeing him frequently once I started working at the IWK, especially outside of PICU between 5:30 and 6 am! He never ceased to amaze me with his compassion and concern for his patients and of course, research. A very philosophical man, kind and gentle. My sincere condolences to his wife and family. Medicine has lost one of the great ones.

John is an IWK legend. He was a respected colleague and friend for over 30 years. We shared countless difficult cases together. His days at the IWK day started early and his nights ended late - I don't know exactly when because I wasn't there when he arrived nor when he left. But he was always there when I needed him. Your patients and your colleagues miss you. And will remember you. Rest in peace my friend.

John Crocker was a uniquely talented and dedicated physician. I have great memories of him. My deepest condolences to Frankie and the family.

Richard Goldbloom

I am so sorry to hear that Dr. Crocker has passed. My sincere condolences to Frankie and the family. I was fortunate to work with Dr. Crocker in his IWK hospital research lab between 1973 and 1977 and experienced first hand his boundless energy and dedication to patients and research. I have so many great memories of him and I shall never forget his wonderful laugh and joy of life. He was truly a remarkable man.

John was a great research colleague and I have fond memories of our interactions, his passion for research and for his patients. An early morning hospital rounds with John was an experience! We all enjoyed his visit to Texas A&M University over 30 years ago. Steve Safe (College Station, Texas)

The management, Physicians and staff of the Janeway Children's Hospital and Rehabilitation Center are sending our deepest condolences on Dr. Crocker's passing. He was a dedicated physician who for many years traveled to Newfoundland to care for our children here at the Janeway. We are eternally grateful to his tremendous commitment and dedication. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Arlene Scott - Regional Director
Dr. Kevin Chan - Clinical Chief

A sad day, and a large loss for the medical community. I have many great memories of my time at the IWK as a resident, then staff, and Dr John Crocker is part of many of them. You could always call him, to ask a question, help solve a problem, ask advice on a patient. Many a middle of the night on call he'd arrive to see the patients in question. And, he'd stay to teach! In my current practice, I think of those teachings often with my own patients, and hope I treat them as well as he treated his. Frankie and family, our sincere condolences, he will be missed.