“Houston Pioneer”
John was born in Glinik, Poland to John and Sofia Luszcz. The family emigrated to Canada in 1929. They settled on a farm near Ardmore, Alberta.
John moved to BC in 1946 where he started in the forest industry, working as a faller, first for Pete Dieleman and then for Steve Ignas. In later years he drove a low-bed truck, hauling equipment for Bulkley Valley Forest Industries and then for Northwood until his retirement in 1992. It was a long career in forestry considering he had only intended to stay in BC for one year.
Throughout John’s life, he worked hard and believed in honesty and fairness. A description of John’s working years is detailed in the book, Marks of a Century.
John met his future wife, Molly, in Houston in 1952. They were married in 1953 and lived in lumber camps at Knockholt and McBride Lake until moving into Houston in 1960 with their children, Brian, Donna and Sherry. John built their first home at Knockholt and moved it into Houston. Two more children, David and Tanya, added to the family.
As well as being a competent carpenter, John was adept at fixing all manner of things from small engines to appliances.
John loved the outdoors and this was reflected in his yard which is surrounded by spruce and pine trees which he dug as seedlings and replanted.
On weekends John and the family often went fishing, mostly at McBride Lake and Morice Lake, which he loved. One of his co-workers often referred to Morice Lake as “John’s Lake.” As well as fishing, John hunted moose, mountain goat, deer and grouse and he explored many of the mountains around Morice Lake. John also enjoyed gardening, berry-picking and traveling.
He looked forward to holidays when the family travelled to visit relatives and explore new areas. John loved dancing. Listening to music always got his feet tapping.
A recent highlight for John was celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary with Molly and renewing their vows last October 17, 2013.
John passed away suddenly, two days shy of his 86th birthday in BVD Hospital with family by his side.
John is survived by his Wife: Molly; Children: Brian; Donna (Wes); Sherry (Brian); David (Lori); and Tanya. Grandchildren: Kerry; Donovan; Travis; Nicole; Chelsey; Zachary. Great-Grandchildren: Jewelle; Aiden; Linden. Sister: Henrietta (Bill) Many nieces and nephews.
Pre-deceased by: Father (John Sr.); Mother (Sofia); Brothers (Stanley & Julian); Sister (Mary).
John will be dearly missed by family and friends.
In memory of John, donations may be made to Houston Retirement Society.