S/Sgt. John Bernard McCormack (Ret’d)

John was born on January 3, 1947 in Souris, PEI to parents Annie and Leonard McCormack. He is survived by his best friend and soulmate, Marilyn (Peters) of Rollo Bay, PEI. They shared a beautiful partnership since their first date in 1964 and throughout their marriage which took place in October 1970. He is also survived by his cherished children, Mark (Lisa), Heather (Bill Luedey), Stephen (Beth) and David (Kristyn Drummond).

The highlight of his past 20 years was the arrival of his seven grandchildren, Parker, Zoey, Marah, Will, Benny, Owen and Felix. He called them his “National Treasures” and was a truly dedicated Grampy.

John enjoyed a very close relationship with his siblings, Betsy (Ray Keenan) and Maureen (Alan Paquet) and the three who pre-deceased him, Leonard (Gail and Isabell), Helen Marie (Ed McCue) and Carol Ann O’Neil. He was also pre-deceased by his in-laws, Peg and Clifford Peters and his sister-in-law Peggy Mumford. He is survived by his brothers in law, Garry Mumford and Fabe O’Neil.

He will be deeply missed by his many nieces and nephews who remember his big heart and his unmatched wit.

John was an exceptional husband, father and grandfather who had a tremendous impact on his family. He has left an incredible footprint in their lives.

Policing was his calling, and he was a true credit to the Profession. He joined the Halifax City Police in 1967. He was extremely proud to watch his son Stephen being sworn in as a City Police Officer years later. John later joined the RCMP where he served for 30 years, retiring in 2006. He served in both NS and PEI. His strength of character and dedication to the safety of the public and his fellow officers defined his service. We have been inspired by his example.

From his early days as a young boy in Souris, John was an avid sports fan, especially football. He was the town hero in 1967 when he completed an interception and ran the ball for the winning touchdown in the much anticipated Potato Bowl championship. He also loved baseball and was the catcher for the Centertowners coached by his brother Leonard. His enthusiasm for sports only grew over the years as he cheered on his children and grandchildren at their events. He was the New England Patriots biggest fan, having travelled to Boston many times to see them with his boys. It seems only fitting that he was able to watch this season’s opener the day before he died.

John loved his large circle of friends and was loved by them. He had an easygoing way with everyone, and you rarely left his company without a smile on your face. He could never imagine a day without music and was constantly adding to his playlist which he enjoyed most at the cottage, his “happy place.” He loved the peace and tranquillity around the Lake. It gave him a deep sense of contentment.

John was truly one of a kind. He had a goodness that shone from within, a giving spirit and a huge, caring heart. He made the world a better place and his absence from our life is difficult to imagine. We will miss him dearly.

Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. John Vianney (4 Beaver Bank Road, Lower Sackville) on Wednesday, September 20 at 11:30am with a reception to follow. The Mass will be livestreamed and can be view by the funeral home website. Father Gerard Chaisson officiating. Burial to take place in Souris, PEI at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Blood Services or the Canadian Red Cross. Canadian Blood Services was important to John as he was a regular donor.