Sadly, John lost his 12 month battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was a caring soul, with an abundance of love to share.
John (Bic) was proud of his 30 years in the Fire Department, and his name will join those of his fallen brothers at the Canadian Firefighters Memorial in Ottawa, where he made annual trips for many years and bonded with firefighters across Canada.
After retirement, John was excited to travel across Canada with PGA Tour Canada, setting up tournament courses. He enjoyed winters in Arizona with his Venture Out family, and summers puttering in the yard with Sandy and enjoying the company of lifelong friends.
Born and raised in Calgary, John had the old west in his blood, often returning for the Calgary Stampede. John Wayne could not have had a bigger fan!
Thank you to John’s loving extended family and friends, and the compassionate medical teams at BC Cancer and RJH 8S.
A gathering of friends will be at Chief & Petty Officers Mess, CFB Esquimalt, 1575 Lyall Street, 1-4 pm Saturday, June 21. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in John’s name to BC Cancer Foundation.
Well Bic, you knew my lovely Wife Stephanie way before me and you followed her voyage with Alzheimer’s and morally supported me! Your beautiful Wife Sandy , comforted me during this time!
They broke the mould Bic, for there will never be another Bic!
You brought support to many people and you never even knew it!
Your Love of the Fire Service has never been so evident by your support of everything the Service was involved in, whether it was Curling, Hockey , MD , Burn Fund , 911 or the Fallen Firefighters Foundation!
You did all Firefighters a gratitude of appreciation!
Your Firefighting ended costing your life, due to the environment we worked in!
You never have to die in the Line of Duty at a Fire, it’s what all Firefighters face , a shortening of your Life to Save a Life due to our caustic environment!
Rest in Peace my Brother and rest assured that Sandy will be looked after by me and your Friends!
You’re only die if you’re forgotten by those you leave behind , Bic, you will have enteral life in my Heart as long as I live!
Your Brother “Frog”
Love you!
May God Bless you and your Family,
Gerry Lister
John was a valued member of the Elks of Canada (Victoria Lodge no. 02) where his presence and contributions will be sorely missed. He was a kind soul who always strived to put the needs of others first. His memory will be treasured and he will be thought of often. Condolences to Sandy and the family.