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February 25, 1930 – September 1, 2009


After a long and courageous battle with cancer, John passed away in the Smithers' Hospital surrounded by his loving family.


John was born in Piszczac, Poland in 1930, immigrated with his family to Canada in 1939, and settled in the area of Ardmore, Alberta. Leaving home at the age of 17, he spent a couple of winters working in northern Alberta. He then decided to go west, and riding a freight train he arrived in Houston in 1949. John wasn’t deterred by hard work and he quickly found a job in a local sawmill. John and Myrna first met at a dance at the ‘old’ Houston Community Hall and they married in 1952. They made Houston their home, living a full and happy life raising their five children. John made his livelihood in the forest industry while he also enjoyed farming, gardening, hunting, and fishing...most recently at his haven...the ‘little lake’. He loved a competitive game of horseshoes or cards and deservedly earned the reputation of a superb marksman. He was caring, generous, hard-working, loyal, and a man of great integrity and determination. He will live on in our hearts and memories forever.


Devoted to his family, John is survived and deeply missed by his wife Myrna of 57 years and his children; Lorne (Mona), Janice (Bill), Karen (Mike), Ervin (Jackie) and Kevin. His grandchildren Warren (Danielle), Stacy (Erik), Jonathan, Justine, Joel, Bradly, Brian and Camryn. Great grandchildren Alexis, Atli, Everett and Breanna.


The family extends their sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Morry, Kim, Vanessa, Aaron, Dr. Bishop, Dr. Bastian, as well as the nurses and staff of the Bulkley Valley District Hospital.


A Celebration of Life will be held at the Houston Community Hall on Saturday September 19, 2009 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memoriam to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Houston Retirement Housing Society.



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