John Lucas Longman

John Longman passed away peacefully on January 21st, 2025 at the age of 97 with his wife, brother, sister-in-law, nephews and nieces by his bedside.

John was born in Goa, India on October 23rd, 1927 as the first of eight children to his beloved parents, Sebastian and Epifania (Effie) D’Souza.

At the age of 21, John made the bold decision to move to Canada. Armed only with a dream and his unwavering determination, he made his way to Vancouver, paving the way not only for himself but for his loved ones as well.

His career journey was filled with many accomplishments including landscape painting, a long career in the lumber industry, a pet shop business, and his chandler business, Longfelow Ship Chandlers Ltd.

A lifelong learner and stock market enthusiast, he found joy in staying informed and sharing his insights, always encouraging others to educate themselves and pursue their passions.

John’s generosity and leadership shaped the lives of those around him. Whether it was guiding his family and friends with their move to Canada or offering support to anyone in need, his strength and kindness never wavered.

A man of many words and stories, he was known for his positive spirit and his eagerness to share his wisdom. Whether chatting with his brother Frank or striking up a conversation with a stranger, John’s love for people was evident in every interaction.

At the heart of John’s life was his role as a loving husband to Merle Longman with whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion. Their bond of over 60 years is a testament to enduring love and companionship.

A devout Catholic, John lived his life with unwavering faith, never letting fear guide his path, firmly rooted in the words of 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind”

John is survived by his loving wife Merle Longman, and brothers Cajetan (Libby, deceased), Allan (Susan) and Francis (Agnes) and sisters Ivy (Ron, deceased), Amy (Paul, deceased), sister-in-law Jean (John deceased) and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother Patrick, his sister Theona (Cupertin, deceased), his brother-in-law Clarence (Jean, deceased), his sister-in-law Lillian (Locky, deceased), and his parents, Sebastian and Effie.

John will be remembered as a man who lived with faith, a generous and determined spirit, and approached life with no fear.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless people whose lives he enriched with his kindness and generosity.

We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of the lord. Jesus loves you, John. May you rest in his care.

A funeral service will be held Thursday February 6th at 11am at St. Edmund’s Parish, 545 Mahon Avenue, North Vancouver.

A reception will follow at Boal Chapel and Memorial Gardens at 1505 Lillooet Road on Thursday, February 6th at 1:00pm.

In place of flowers, please kindly donate to the BC Cancer Foundation.

Link: https://bccancerfoundation.com/donations/homepage-nav/?s_src=NavDonate

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