John Neville Cox

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that our Papa, John Neville Cox, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on January 20, 2026. John leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Margaret Cox; daughters Terri (Lee) Fryberger, Lea-Ann Cox; grandchildren, Courtenay Niedermayer (Miles Shepert), Graysen Fryberger, Ritchie Niedermayer, Falyn Fryberger (Kyle Nagy), Ronnie Niedermayer, and Terri Mitchell; brothers, Chris (Heather) Cox, Gerry (Lynn) Cox, and Jody (Larry) Spara. He also leaves numerous, nieces, nephews, and many family and friends. Also missing him dearly is his dog, Harley, who was his best friend, companion, and protector.

John was preceded by his father, Neville Cox; mother, Lou Cox; brother, Laurie Cox; father-in-law, Louis Van Metre; mother-in-law, Clara Van Metre; brothers-in-law, Wendell Howard and Eric Jeffreys; nephew, Jordan Howard; and his beloved dog, Max.

John was born February 5, 1946, and raised in New Westminster. He enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1965 as a radar technician. He spent 25 years in the military and was posted at Ramore, Ontario; Armstrong, Ontario; Holberg, BC; and Baldy Hughes in Prince George, BC, where he spent most of his career until the closure of the base. After his release from the military, John spent the next 25 years at Northwood Pulp as an instrument mechanic until his retirement.

John enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting, but his real passion was rebuilding and riding Harley motorcycles. This sometimes involved moving a rebuilt Harley out from the basement with the help of a few friends. Once, he even brought one home in boxes. He was our go to for anything that needed to be designed, fixed, or built…from elaborate playhouses to anything garden. There was nothing Papa couldn’t fix or make. All the grandkids knew papa was always there to give them a ride to wherever they needed to be. (With a smile and some friendly conversation along the way with a splash of sarcasm).

The family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the homecare nurses at Rotary Hospice House for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Papa, and to us as well.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rotary Hospice in John’s memory.

A memorial for friends and family will be held in the fall and announced at a later date.