We lost John very suddenly on Friday, Jan. 10th and our sadness is profound.
John was an amazing brother, brother-in-law and uncle, as well as a kind and loyal friend to so many.
He was the youngest child of Merle (Patterson) and Michael Whalley, QC.
John held a Master’s degree in Economics from Dalhousie University and considered learning to be a lifelong endeavour. In his free time, he was an avid reader and outdoorsman.
John’s work life was dedicated to two of the things he was most passionate about, creating a brighter future for Cape Breton Island and making a positive difference in the lives of others. In this regard, he considered himself very fortunate to serve as Vice President of New Dawn Enterprises over the last number of years - an organization which focused on so much near to his heart.
Giving of himself and what he had to others did not begin and end with his work but was the very fabric of who he was. It was a vocation for John.
John was predeceased by his parents.
John is survived by his siblings: Anne Reardon (Bruce), Clem, and Patricia Ferguson (Eric); his niece Jane; and nephews David (Caitlin) and Michael Ferguson; as well as grandniece Olivia McNeil.
A celebration of John’s life will be held from 1-3pm on Friday, Jan. 17 at the Coxheath Hills Community Centre, 1580 Coxheath Rd. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Hardwood Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers we ask you to consider a charitable donation to the New Dawn Meals on Wheels Program.
To his many friends, you know who you are, we offer our deepest condolences. With love.
To thine own self be true.