Passed suddenly at Royal Jubilee Hospital on September 20, 2013 at the age of 64 years. Born in Scarborough, Ontario on April 25, 1949 he is lovingly remembered by daughter, Brittany Smith (Lance Walker); partner, Madeline Bolen; mother, Joyce Smith; grandchildren, Lexi, Kiara and Joshua; and sister, Nancy Callaghan.
John served 33 as a police officer and retired as Staff Sergeant of the Victoria City Police Department in 2001.
In retirement he loved sailing, working for the Harbour Ferries, hockey, spending time in Scottsdale, AZ and caring for his pets. He will be greatly missed by his friends, community and family.
On September 28 at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of John’s life will be held at McCall Bros. Floral Chapel, Johnson and Vancouver Streets with a reception directly following the service.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
Flowers gratefully declined, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cops for Cancer Foundation.
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John Screaton
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Wayne and Gwen Coleman Our condolences to John’s family. We had many years, working together at Vic PD.
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Dawn & Don Duke Mel and your extended family
Don and I are so very saddened at the sudden news of John’s passing. While we didn’t know John well, the times we did have short chats, it was always a real pleasure. We will miss his cheery wave, and smile.
Don and I will be on a flight to Europe tomorrow, and truly regret not being at John’s memorial. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.With our sincerest condolences Mel, Dawn and Don
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Claude Wagner John’s presence will always be a constant in the life of everyone he touched.
I owe him so much…
me
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Charlie Baird John’s presence in my life was very short but he so touched me, and everyone that had the great honour of meeting him, that he will remain forever a cherished friend. John was the instructor for this seasons ferry boat skippers, and his devotion to passing on his knowledge and his humourous manners have left a void that few can fill. His kind words and gentle ‘suggestions’ as to the correct outcome of any problem, left no doubt as to the right course to proceed.
Although I cannot attend in person the service on Saturday, I want all his family and friends to know that I will be there in thought and spirit.
May the winds fill his sails, may the seas be calm, may his fishing line always be dipped in the waters ahead. Be in a safe harbour Captain John.
Charlie
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Dave Hockley I had the pleasure of meeting John when playing evening floor hockey with him at Braefoot Elementary School. He was a true gentleman, one who loved to compete and enjoy the company of all who he connected with. John had an excellent sense of humour and a genuine interest in all of us. My sincere condolences to John’s family and friends. He will be missed but remembered fondly by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
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Catherine McCaffrey So very saddened by John’s passing. My heart goes out to his family and Mel! Thinking of you all!
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Ingrid & Gerald Tourigny Mel , Tim and family, we are so sorry for your loss. John was a special guy with a great nurturing compassionate nature that shined through. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
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Neill Dixon Sincere condolences to all John’s family members. John’s positive attitude, his sense of humour and obvious appreciation for all his fellow captains at the
Harbour Ferries benefited us all. As a member of his watch I will miss him, his welcoming wave as our boats passed by and his always happy demeanor. John you will be sorely missed.
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Rob and Barb Harris Mel, Brittany and Family,
Our sincere sympathy and blessings to you all. John was a treasured friend whose company we always enjoyed, especially his storytelling, humour and love of life. We will remember his special care and compassion for his family, friends and community. We will never forget you John – Rest in Peace.
Love Rob and Barb Harris
I had the good fortune to work with John as my watch leader. We were becoming good friends until, sadly, the journey came to an end. Great things have already been said about John. A testament to the kind of man he was. Farewell John, I will miss you….John Screaton
Sincerest Sympathy to Mel and all the family, John & Val Screaton