November 20, 1924 - January 29, 2022
It is with heavy hearts we announce that John McDonald passed away in his sleep on January 29, 2022. He leaves behind his wife of 73 years, Ellen; his daughter Dianne (Dan); his son Bruce (Janice); his grandchildren Greg (Melissa), Steven (Trina), Jamie (Jeff), Rebecca and Sarah (Jordan); his 8 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. John is predeceased by his 2 sisters Mary Buxton and Katharine Porter.
John was born in Springwater, Saskatchewan. When his father enlisted to serve in WWII, John was left to run the family farm. In 1943 John and his mother left the farm and moved to BC, settling in Surrey. There John met Ellen and they were married in 1948. John was at every piano and singing recital that his daughter had and sat in his truck watching her field hockey games. He was involved with all the sports his son pursued either as a coach or referee. In 1989 John and Ellen retired to Hope and John soon became involved in the community. You could often find him at the arena or at the ball diamond enjoying a game. He was also very involved with Canyon Golden Agers, Hope Ratepayers and was "Mr. Fix-It" for Park Street Manor until they told him he could no longer climb a ladder. John loved to tell a story and would share one with anyone who took a moment to listen. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to someone in need and on several occasions opened his home to someone who needed a place to stay.
John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He will be missed. As John always loved a party, a Celebration of Life will be held at a time when we can gather and share our favourite John stories. Many thanks to Virginia and the staff at Riverside Manor for their care of John over the last couple of years. Thanks too to Dr. Darby and the staff at Fraser Canyon Hospital.