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John Smith Obituary
It is with deep sadness that the family of John Smith announces his death on October 29, 2012 at the Halifax Infirmary after a brief illness. John was a lifelong resident of Halifax, the son of Ted and Martha Smith, and brother to Amy (Bob Hill) Mississauga; Carole (Charlie Macdonald) Halifax; Judy (Bob Thibeau) Halifax; Linda (Howard Archibald) New Glasgow; Donnie (Michelle) Elgin, Ont. John will be greatly missed by his loving wife Karen (nee White), and sons Sean (Halifax) and Ryan (Toronto), who were the pride of his life. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, along with extended family and many great friends. John was a graduate of St. Mary's University and held the CMA designation. At the time of his passing, he was employed as CFO with Data Wiring Solutions, and previously worked a number of years for Stewart McKelvey and Cox & Palmer law firms. Among other organizations, John served on the Downtown Halifax Business Commission and on the Finance Committee of the Nova Scotia Barrister's Society and volunteered at the Halifax Community Learning Network. John had a lifelong commitment to karate and tai chi. He loved company and conversation, especially if either involved his passions for yoga, cycling, reading, kayaking, traveling and cooking. John will be remembered for his sense of humor and his mentorship. John was an organ donor and his family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses and doctors in the neurosurgical unit for their exceptional care. Visitations will be held at Cruikshanks Funeral Home, Windsor Street, Halifax, Thursday, November 1st from 7 to 9 pm and Friday, November 2nd from 2 to 4 pm. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, November 3rd at St. Andrew's United Church, Robie Street, Halifax. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brain Repair Centre, QEII Foundation (423-7932). To view or send a condolence to the family please visit: www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com
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93 Entries
Mary and Steve Chipman
November 15, 2012
We were shocked and saddened to hear that John had recently passed away. We met John when cycling and his friendliness, kindness and warmth of spirit will always be remembered. Whenever our paths crossed, be it in the Purdy's pedway, at the Farmer's Market or in Point Pleasant Park he would always stop for a chat. Our deepest condolances go the family at this very sad time,
Timothy Walker
November 14, 2012
I knew John through Tai Qui and Yoga. Whenever I saw him he radiated a very positive, kind and friendly presence. He seemed to have a positive influence on every persons' life that he touched. He will be greatly missed. my condolences to his family and his close circle.
Kathy Mutch
November 8, 2012
It seems utterly impossible that someone so vibrant and full of fun is no longer with us. I met John at the Shala, where he was a constant inspiration and source of merriment, especially during the solstice. He brought boundless joy and exuberance to that challenging practice, and it won't be the same for me without him. I'm so very sorry for your loss. John was an exceptional man.
Bruce Walden
November 8, 2012
Karen & Family:
John was a truly exceptional person.
I thoroughly enjoyed every conversation we had over the years and will miss his passion and insightful commentary on the world around us.
My condolences to you and your family.
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Joel Hill
November 5, 2012
Dear Karen and Family,
I was shocked and saddened by your unexpected loss. You have my deepest sympathy at this very sad time.
I met John only once - outside of the LaHave Bakery where you and John were on your bicycles. I still recall how the smiles on both of your faces conveyed the genuine happiness you shared together.
Joel Hill
November 5, 2012
Karen
Sincere Condolences to you and your family......Carter and Wendy Stevens...Louisbourg
Jennifer MacQueen
November 4, 2012
I was both shocked and saddened to hear about John's passing. I worked with John at Stewart McKelvey and no matter what kind of a day you were having, he could always manage to put a smile on your face.
Sharon (Campbell) Carter
November 4, 2012
Karen and family, we are truly sorry for the loss of your husband and father, may you find peace in the love of your family and friends.
Sharon(Campbell) and Leo Carter
Adam Frayne
November 4, 2012
Dear Karen and Family,
I want to start off saying I'm so sorry for your loss. John to me was a man I very much looked up to. He showed me how to treat people. How to make the most out of your life and enjoy it with the people you love. I worked for John at Stewart McKelvey. I looked up to him so much that one year I dressed up as him for Halloween. We shared some great laughs that day. He was a great man and I will miss him very much. The life lessons he taught me will stick with me forever.
Dressing up as John for Halloween. The joker he is he took it very well and we had some great laughs
Adam Frayne
November 4, 2012
Dave Griffin
November 3, 2012
i've known John for close to 40 years. We trained together at the AKC from the early mid 70's to the early 80's and were good friends through that time. As we got older we grew in differant directions, differant careers and differant interests. We saw less and less of each other over the last 25 years but when we got together it was like taking up where we left off from the last time. Wether it was 5 months or 5 years. Good bye old friend.. until the next time
Angela Saunders Gray
November 3, 2012
I am saddened to learn of John's passing. I worked with John for five years at Cox Hanson O'Reilly Matheson. He would always stop and chat and share a few laughs with staff no matter if they were a receptionist, a paralegal, an associate or a partner. He always did his best to make sure everyone felt included and valued in the workplace and genuinely cared about his co-workers. That is what I will remember - a nice, honest, good natured person who loved life. We would often talk about travel and the little things in life that brought joy. He was one of the good guys of the world. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Jennifer
November 3, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear of John's passing. I worked at the same office with John for many years and his daily chats were a highlight of my day. He was such a gregarious person and had a wicked sense of humour. He adored Karen and talked about his boys with such passion - he was SO proud of them. He was a wonderful human being and this planet is going to miss him dearly.
Gail Carney
November 3, 2012
I had the privilege of working at Cox & Palmer with John some years ago and I admired his passion and interests in life, his cooking and adventure stories, and most of all his warmth and integrity. The world has lost a good one and he will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
David Deveau
November 3, 2012
John's energy, humour and social approach made him a pleasure to know. Training with John at the Halifax ISKF Karate Club and at a recent karate camp in the United States provides great memories. He will be missed in the karate dojo by his many friends, but not forgotten.
John and Karen on one of many bicycling adventures.
Gwen Mader
November 3, 2012
Dear Karen and Sons,
I am sadden at the news. His smiling face and spunky personality will be missed. My heart goes out to you. Take Care Karen you are in my thoughts.
Gwen Mader
Tammy Rent
November 3, 2012
Karen, Sean, Ryan and family,
Sincere condolences to you for your loss. I hope the fond memories can help you through this difficult time.
Bill & Cindy Hawbolt
November 3, 2012
Uncle Brud, Aunt Martha and all my cousins, although we seem to lose touch over the years, you are all so very dear to my heart. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all today and in the days ahead!
Bill & Cindy (Smith) Hawbolt
Trevor Porter
November 3, 2012
Karen and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I am fortunate to have called John a friend and will deeply miss sharing the occasional evening with you both, eating, drinking and laughing together. He was a bright light and we have been blessed to have had such a genuine, positive person in our lives.
Janet Steele
November 2, 2012
Karen and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Janet Steele
Gillian Hallett
November 2, 2012
Karen and Family:
I was both shocked and saddened to learn of John's passing and am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of knowing John when we both worked at Cox Hanson and later, after we both went our respective ways, I always enjoyed running into him around our neighbourhood as I knew I would be entertained with an interesting tale about one of your adventures; he was so proud of all of you and your accomplishments. I will always remember John for his amazing spirit, zest for life, sense of humour, kindness and, of course, his great smile. Please know that you are in my thoughts at this sad time.
Sincerely,
Gillian (Kempster) Hallett and Family
Donna Falt
November 2, 2012
Dear Family
I am sorry for your loss. Although I have not seen John for a very long time, I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I worked with him throughout his time at Cox & Palmer. His quick wit and jovial spirit brought fun to a busy work day. He was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Norman Steele
November 2, 2012
Karen, Sean, Ryan and Family,
Michelle and I were deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of John. Karen you were certainly one of my lifes key mentors not only in my career but in my admiration for your family. Although I didn't know John that well directly I feel that through our many conversations over the years I did get a personal glimpse into your family dynamic. From what I heard it was always filled with adventure, culinary art, sharing, travel, culture, learning, fitness, and love. John was obviously a wonderful man that contributed to that rich family life and certainly has left many wonderful memories with your family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Norman and Michelle Steele
Peigi and Ward Duncan
November 2, 2012
Karen, we're so very sorry to hear of John's passing. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Meryl Cook & John Lam
November 2, 2012
Dear Karen, Sean and Ryan,
Our hearts are broken at the loss of John. We have many fond memories of all of you, beginning with our days at karate where we all met. As our children grew we would come in and out of each other's lives, but we never thought there would not be another opportunity to laugh with John or have him inflict his sharp wit on us. We know you have two loving, strong families to surround you, along with your many friends. We hope you will reach out and let us each offer some support and in doing so support ourselves in our loss as well.
Warmest love, Meryl and John
Phil Rogers
November 2, 2012
Quick to laugh, fiercely proud of his family, ready to help, thoughtful, intelligent, intense, accessable, kind, worldly, inquisitive. I am glad to have known John and saddened by his leaving. My sincere condolences to all his family.
James Morris
November 2, 2012
On behalf of the law firm of Morris Bureau in Halifax, where John's son Sean has been making a much valued contribution as our articled clerk, I extend our deepest sympathy to Sean and his family at this difficult time.
Richard Oulton
November 2, 2012
Karen and family, I'm very sorry for your loss. John and I worked as colleagues at Stewart McKelvey for a time. He was a wonderful colleague, and I always very much enjoyed his company and conversation. It was especially great chatting with him about cycling adventures, and I was envious of the obviously great trips the two of you had together in that activity. I will miss him. Again, my sincere condolences.
Sarah Dykema
November 2, 2012
Karen and family, Brad and I are so sorry for your loss. John was a great guy full of positive energy and we feel lucky to have known him. We always enjoyed running into him at Starbucks - you could never talk to John without feeling good afterwards!
Lisa Mannett
November 2, 2012
Karen and family,
I was shocked and saddened very much at the news of John passing.
I knew John through yoga having first met him at the Yoga Loft and then got to know him better at the Shala. John always made me smile and brightened my day. We practiced yoga next to each other in the early mornings often getting scolded for talking and laughing.
I also enjoyed listening to his stories and chatting with him after practice.
He was so positive and full of life always inspiring me to work hard on my mat and will continue to do so. I am very grateful to have know him. My Thoughts are with you.
November 1, 2012
He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much;
Who has enjoyed the trust of pure women, the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's beauty or failed to express it;
Who has left the world better than he found it,
Whether an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul;
Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had;
Whose life was an inspiration;
Whose memory a benediction.
November 1, 2012
Karen, I was so saddened to receive your message today. Thank you very much for calling.
John and I spent many wonderful hours together pushing each other to achieve our goals both in sport and in life. While I hadn't seen John for some time he was never absent from my thoughts.
The first year I met John he showed up at my door on Christmas eve with a book for my oldest daughter Tanya. It was "The Hobbit". I said you didn't have to do that, to which he answered "I never had a friend before" He melted my heart and our friendship was sealed for life right on the spot.
Please accept my sincere condolences.
Bob Gogan
Karen and Sons,
It was with a heavy heart that I received your message today and relayed the tragic news to Bob. I have fond memories of your wedding to John, spending time with your family and friends on the eve. Our family remembers sharing fun times with you and John and later along with your young sons. John will be a great loss to you, your family, friends and to the community.
With Sincere Sympathy
Beverly Gogan
Barbie Leggett
November 1, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. John was an amazing man and a true inspiration. I feel blessed and very thankful to have known him and to have had the opportunity to practice yoga with him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family,
kimberley watson
November 1, 2012
Karen and family i'm so sorry for your loss! John was so much alive with life! I so enjoyed the way he made us laugh and he truely was a down to earth caring man! He will be very much missed! My thoughts are with you! kimberley watson
Laurie Stephenson
November 1, 2012
Karen,
The last time I saw John, he was sitting in my office holding a kitten and cooing. When you rode off together, it never occurred to me that I might never get another "gab session with John." He was the guy who was always happy to see you; always fun and interesting and interested. I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your sons.
November 1, 2012
John did not walk around the puddles. He ran through them laughing. His love of family, a good story and a quick wit made him a joy and honour to know. Our deepest symapthies to his family. Graham Packman
Stephen Mabey
November 1, 2012
Just wanted to pass along my personal condolences on the lost of someone who perhaps is best described as one of the good ones! Both a gentleman and a genuine nice person. He will be missed both at home and around the community.
Bob & Gloria MacKenzie
November 1, 2012
Karen, Bob and I are very sorry for your and your children's great loss. May God bless you Our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies. Bob and Gloria
November 1, 2012
The board and staff of the Downtown Halifax Business Commission were shocked and saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of our former Chairman, John Smith, last weekend. John was one of the healthiest and most relaxed people I ever met. He lived life fully.
I personally had the pleasure of working with John on two separate occasions - first when I was a board member of Film NS, and he was the Director of Finance, and then more recently during his 5 years on the DHBC Board, two as Chairman. John was a true gentleman, always with a kind word, and a strategic view of things. We often met to talk about work, family, and so that he could regale me with tales of his worldwide cycling adventures. He prodded me to try yoga, which hasn't happened yet, and to take up cycling. I did get a bike last Father's Day, and can't help but think I'll remember him every time I get on it.
John will certainly be missed by everyone who knew him. And terribly missed by those who knew him well. Our deepest condolences to his wife, Karen, and two sons. We will miss John, who was, as one fellow board member called him, a “ gem of a human being�.
Paul MacKinnon
Hanita Koblents
November 1, 2012
I just heard -- I am so sorry Karen for your loss. John was a positive, radiant person and I will miss his incredibly warm energy. The cycling community has a lost a real champion. Our deepest condolences, from me and Mik, and also from members of the Bike Week Committee with whom he worked so well with over the past several years.
David Mombourquette
November 1, 2012
So sorry to hear of your loss Karen. John was a frequent lunch buddy with myself, Jim Musgrave and Jamie Campbell during my days at Cox. He had a wonderful mix of charm and biting wit, which he lovingly used at our expense. He spoke often of you and the kids and loved to tell us about your adventures. He will be missed by so many.
Kent Lane
November 1, 2012
Karen
I had the opportunity to meet John with you at a number of our company social events and it was clear that he was not only a wonderful and charming person but a great husband and partner to you as well. You have my deepest sympathy for your loss and I wish you strength at this time and in the days ahead.
Mary Simpson
November 1, 2012
Karen, Sean and Ryan, my deepest sympathies. John was a wonderful and warm person always ready with a smile and a laugh and, of course, a story. I had the honour to work and study both karate and tai chi with him. He will be missed.
Heather Watson
November 1, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts.
wonderful memories of France
Jennifer Noel
November 1, 2012
Jennifer Noel
November 1, 2012
Dearest Karen, I'm truly and deeply sorry for your loss and send my condolences to you and your family. John was a kind man with a great sense of humour who was an excellent chef. My cycling trip across France was made memorable by both of your kindness and help. One of my fondest memories was our time in Sarlat when one afternoon you two were lovingly curled up together reading books on your tablets, which later turned into a wonderful evening of John preparing a delicious meal for everyone. My thoughts are with you and your family as you grieve the loss of John. *hugs* In memory of John I have made a donation to the Brain Repair Centre. Mom is currently out of town but she sends her deepest sympathy for your loss.
joan smith
November 1, 2012
I remember as a child the visits to see Aunt Amy ( Johns' grandmother) on June Street. My father, Gerald Smith always took us to see our Smith relatives at Christmas time and John would be among the cousins to come to our house for games and fun, at least for a few years running, to ring in the new year on New Years Eve. My brother Bill knew John well from St. Mary's. Karen, I met you once or twice yrs ago but you probably wouldn't remember me. What I remember of John was that smile and willingness to always have fun. So young to go and I am sure he will be missed terribly. sincerely, Joan Smith
Guylaine Williams
November 1, 2012
Very sad! Was such a joy to be around. Grateful to have spent time with him.
(fellow yogi)
November 1, 2012
Karen and Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. John was an amazing person. Cherish your memories of him. Our thoughts are with you. Manny and Cathy Drapeau
Sharon Munson
November 1, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. John was such a great man. He seemed to always be smiling and was happy to chat even in a hurry. He was so enthusiastic about his yoga it was inspiring both teaching and practicing beside him. The world has lost a wonderful man.
Heather Edwards
October 31, 2012
I am so sad to hear of John's sudden passing.
I have great memories of meeting John and remembering him as a mentor and a friend. John gave me my first post-univeristy business job in 1985 and the base for a successful career. I have been in Toronto since 1989 and have often thought about looking up John for a coffee/beer and a chat on my frequent visits home and am sad that the opportunity has passed.
Karen - my thoughts and prayers are with you and your sons at this time.
Donnie - sorry to hear of your brother's passing. It was a fun discovery that we had you in common when I first met John.
John always had good advice, a smile and a funny story. He's gone too soon and will be missed.
Jen MacMillan
October 31, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about your family's loss.
Ryan and Sean, whenever I saw your dad over the years he was so friendly, and always took the time to ask how I was doing and what I was up to. It was clear he was so proud of both of you, and he always had a story to tell about a family vacation or a cycling trip or a good movie he'd seen. I'll remember him as someone who lived life to its fullest.
Thinking of you.
Amanda McCarthy Searle
October 31, 2012
Karen- I am so terribly sorry to hear the news. John had been a huge part of my life at yoga. He was one of the most positive, spirited, gentle souls I have ever met. He lived life to the fullest and was so proud to speak of his experiences, and his love for his family. What a wonderful man and I'm so honored to have known him. My heart goes out to you and your family.
October 31, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. What a warm and kind person he was. My condolences on behalf of Steve and I,
Dale Darling
Angela Ghiz
October 31, 2012
Karen
Paul and I are so sorry to hear about your loss. It's unbelievable as we ran into John frequently (usually Petes or Planet Organic). We always had great conversations about anything - it really didn't matter what the subject was. John was actually the most enthusiastic and passionate person I have ever met, always positive and upbeat, and he knew so much. You were so lucky to have such a great man as your partner. We pray that you have lots of support through this very difficult transition.
Angela Ghiz & Paul MacNutt
Linda Ham
October 31, 2012
Karen, Sean and Ryan; so very sorry for your unexpected loss. This is so very sad for you all; thinking of you with love. I remember you telling us of John's wonderful cooking skills and remember, with great fondness, sampling some of his delicious masterpieces. He will be missed. Hugs.
Linda Ham
October 31, 2012
Karen and boys; so sorry for your unexpected loss. This is so very sad for you all. Thinking of you. I will remember you always telling us how wonderful a cook he was and remember, with much fondness, some of those delicious masterpieces.
October 31, 2012
Dear Karen. A Million sorrys cannot express the sadness on hearing of your great loss. He will be sadly missed in my biking world as I know he will be totally missed in yours. It is with tears in my eyes as I remember our France trip and I thank God I was one of the lucky ones to get to know John better and enjoy his pink bike humor and French cooking skills. As I am away on vacation may I offer any future help,for now I pray the love and support of your family and friends will carry you through some of the most difficult days you will ever face. Love, Terry
October 31, 2012
So sorry for your loss Karen, thinking of you and your family.
Eileen Annand ( Crossfit Kinetics )
Shannon Doane
October 31, 2012
I'm very sorry to hear of John's passing. I didn't have the opportunity to get to know him as well as some people, but he will be missed non-the-less. Attending Master Camp together was fun and I was impressed by his tenacity and his desire to compete in the international goodwill tournament regardless of the younger opponents. He also showed a great appreciation for the knowledge of the karate masters who gave lectures in the evenings while at camp. Where many people would go out to party or not attend the talks, he went to each one and showed a genuine appreciation for the knowledge and information that he learned.
My thoughts are with the family.
Suzy Edmonds
October 31, 2012
I used to practice yoga with John when I lived in Halifax. He was both a warm and positive presence in the studio. I think of him often when I spend time on my mat. He will be truly missed by many.
October 31, 2012
Dear Karen
I am so saddened to hear of your loss.
What a wonderful couple you made; so many shared adventures to hopefully give you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Jane Moffat Schnare
Donald Walter
October 31, 2012
Karen, please except my sincere condolences to you and your family at this time. I always enjoyed his company and his laughter on the bike rides we did together over the years.
Gerard Moss
October 31, 2012
Karen & Family, both Catherine & I offer our sincere condolences.It just doesn't seem fair that John had to be taken away from us in such a young life. It was a pleasure having known & cycled with John over the past few years. Be assured that you have plenty of friends to surround you when you need it.
Gerard Moss & Catherine Vardy
October 31, 2012
To all John's family and friends, please accept our sincere condolences. We hope your love and memories will help you through this time.
Betty May and Larry Collier
Chantal Hanna
October 31, 2012
My sincere condolences for your loss, I worked with John at Stewart McKelvey and can honestly say he was one of the nicest people I've ever met. Always ready with a kind word, a smile, joke, or a story about his family, he made each run-in memorable. It was an honor to have known him and my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Graham & Pat Smith
October 31, 2012
Ted, Martha, Karen & family;
Our sincere sympathy to the entire family. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you.
David Hopper
October 31, 2012
Karen, I was shocked to hear this, he was so young. I'm so sorry for your loss Karen, to you and family. I'll be thinking of you.
Jennifer Bates
October 31, 2012
Karen: John was a special person and he'll be dearly missed. My sincere sympathy to you, Sean and Ryan. Please know that you are surrounded by many friends.
Jan McKenzie
October 31, 2012
Karen, Sean and Ryan, I had the great pleasure of working in the office next to John for many years. He loved life and often entertained me with stories about his adventures. Most of those stories started and/or ended with his family. He was so very proud of you all. I will miss him.
Robert Stack
October 31, 2012
To Karen, Sean, Ryan and the rest of John's family, I extend my sincere condolences. I had the pleasure of John's smile, intelligence and hard work during and after the formation of Cox Hanson O'Reilly Matheson. John was not just a solid contributor to the firm, but was also delightful company (although I felt completely inadequate following tales of his cycling, tai chi, volunteer and other activities). I know that he will be missed but we can be thankful for his (too brief) time among us.
October 31, 2012
Dear Donnie, I am sending heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this time of loss and sadness. Patricia Trudeau (MacDonald), Ottawa, On.
Stephanie Douma
October 31, 2012
Karen and family. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Stephanie and Marten Douma
Tim Hannon
October 31, 2012
I am shocked and saddened to learn John's untimely passing. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. He was a prince of a man, and will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace.
Nicole MacKay
October 31, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad I had the bike ride out to Peggy's cove with you and John, he was a very nice man. My thoughts are with you and your boys in this difficult time.
Rachelle & Douglas MacKinnon & Family
October 31, 2012
Karen our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
God Bless.
Ron Doleman
October 31, 2012
I met with John shortly after my arrival in Halifax. He welcomed me to the local cycling world, making me feel very much at home. I always enjoyed biking with John and benefited greatly from his warmth and sense of humour. He was always a joy to be with. My heart goes out to Karen and to the family for this sudden loss.
Holly Conway
October 31, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. I should be saying our loss. John was a great man! He could always put a smile on someone's face. I will remember his jokes and our chats about traveling. I worked with John at Stewart McKelvey for a few years and not once did I ever see him in a bad mood. He was always smiling and in good spirits. He will truly be missed. Prayers go out to everyone who is hurting over the loss of such a wonderful man. God bless
October 31, 2012
Karen, Sean and Ryan, so very sad to hear of the sudden death of John. God Bless you and your family in this time of great sorrow.
Kevin & Debi Kennedy
Ft McMurray, AB
Graham & Pat Smith
October 31, 2012
Ted, Martha, Karen and family .I am very sorry to hear that John has died. You are in my thoughts and prayers .
Kelsey McLaren
October 31, 2012
My deepest condolences to Karen, Sean, and Ryan. My thoughts are with all of you.
Sensei Tony Tam
October 31, 2012
It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of John.
John was an active member of our karate dojo and rarely missed classes. His experience in the martial arts extended beyond his time with our dojo and he was very knowledgeable in the technical and philosophical aspects of karate. He was always willing to share his knowledge and was respected for his technical and teaching abilities.
He attended his first Master ISKF Karate Camp this past summer in Philadelphia where over 400 karate practioners around the world gather each year to train intensively for a week under the greatest Japanese Masters. He competed in the International Goodwill Tournament at the Camp without fear, sparring with guys many years his junior.
John always trained and competed to the best of his abilities and exhibited all the fine qualities of a true karateka. We will miss John and his enthusiasm and vigour for life. His spirit will stay strong in our dojo.
Kirk Graham
October 31, 2012
I met John through taiji where he was a constant prescence sharing his tips and suggestions along with his kind sense of humour. I'm sad to hear of his passing and wish you the best in these difficult transitional times.
Travis Smith
October 31, 2012
Ryan, I am very sorry for your loss. While I never had the pleasure of meeting your Dad, he was clearly a wonderful father. My condolences go out to you and your family.
Noreen Maier
October 31, 2012
He was truly an officer and a gentleman!!! It was an honour to have known such a wonderful man.
Bob Walsh
October 31, 2012
To Karen and family:
Karen, I never had the opportunity to meet John but in reading of his interests, etc, and knowing you, I can visualize the life you shared together. The loss of your life partner at such a young age is tragic and dealing with it at this point in time takes all the strength you and yours can muster. My condolences and prayers are with you at this time.
best regards
Bob Walsh (CBCL)
Karen McNulty
October 31, 2012
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss, he was a great family man and outdoor enthusiast.
Elizabeth and Gavin Kennedy
October 31, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss - its hard to believe that a guy so full of life, enthusiasm and energy is suddenly gone. It seems in recent years the place I saw him most frequently was the vegetable section at the grocery, and he would always enthusiastically tell me all the details of the supper he was going to prepare. It often changed my comparably pathetic meal plans. We are thinking of Karen and the rest of Johns family, and hoping your can find comfort in your grief.
Tom O'Reilly
October 31, 2012
To John's wife and family: Please accept my sincere condolences on John's untimely passing. I worked closely with John in the establishment of Cox Hanson O'Reilly Matheson in the late 90s and I found him a pleasure to work with. Ever the professional, he nevertheless had a keen sense of humour that often provided the necessary and welcome release during the lenthy meetings that we both attended. May you find within you and in each other the strength to carry you through this difficult time.
Tom O'Reilly
John Hamblin
October 31, 2012
Although I only got to know John in the last year, I quickly learned that he combined a great "business head" with a wonderful sense of humour and was one of the nicest people I ever met. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Holly Conway
October 31, 2012
So sorry for your loss. I should say our loss. What a great man! John could always put a smile on anyones face:) I worked with John at Stewart McKelvey for a few years and he would always have jokes and make me smile. I can not remember a single day that John was not up in spirits. I will remember his stories about traveling and biking. So sadden by this news. Prayers are with everyone at this time. May God be our strength in this time of need.
Katie Paul
October 31, 2012
John was a great man and will truly be missed. My heart goes out to his family.
Paula Leger (Smith)
October 31, 2012
What a shock! None of us know the day nor the hour when it will be our turn to go. I pray that God will strengthen and keep you all strong in this time and the days ahead. As you reflect on the good memories may you all be blessed by John's life and may we all remember that we live to see eternity beyond this life. I pray that we will all be ready when our time is up here on this earth. May God's strength & peace be upon you all. I Love You All and I am Praying for you! God Bless!!!
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How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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