Chester Allison Johnson

JOHNSON, Chester A. CM, OBC, B.Comm., FCA November 1, 1925 - March 29, 2010 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Chester Johnson. Chester was predeceased by his first wife Janis Ingledew and brothers Gordon (Mavis) and Parker (Babs). He is survived by his son Garfield (Judith), daughter Susan (Paul) and wife Doreen (Mark and Barb, Linda and Jan and Chris). Pappa also leaves behind his eight grandchildren Danielle, Brennan, Lauren, Nate, Kelly, Leanne, Robert and Rachel. Chester was a second generation born in Vancouver and graduated from Lord Byng High School and the University of British Columbia. He served in the RCAF from 1943 - 1945. Chester was an extraordinary man who lived life to the fullest and gave much of himself to create opportunities for others. What Chester loved most of all, was work. Chester was a strong influence who led Whonnock Industries, West Fraser Timber, B.C. Hydro, Western Pulp, YVR and the Whistler Land Company. He co-founded Casabello Wineries and Fibreco Export Inc. Chester served as a director on the boards of numerous organizations including; Expo 1986, Scott Paper Ltd., Doman Industries and GWIL Industries Ltd. and as co-arbitrator for the Quintette Coal Arbitration. Chester was a member of the Economic Council of Canada from 1987 - 1992, was a Freeman of Whistler and honourary Colonel of the 78th Fraser Highlanders. His reward came from recognition of his service which included; the Order of Canada, Canada 125 Medal, the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, the Order of British Columbia, Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC and Inductee of the Business Laureates British Columbia Hall of Fame. Chester left behind many legacies for his family and for the people of British Columbia. In the 1980's, Chester led a dedicated board who started the transformation of the near bankrupt Whistler into a world-class, year-round resort by having the foresight and fortitude to plan and build a convention centre in Whistler. Perhaps his proudest accomplishment was his role in acquiring renowned Haida artist Bill Reid's Jade Canoe sculpture for the new international terminal at YVR. Today, it is one of the most photographed icons in BC. Chester Johnson Park now welcomes the world to British Columbia at YVR. For the past two years, Dad has been working on his memoirs so that his lessons of Doing It Right will not be lost. We are grateful to the team at Echo Memoirs and that he proudly finished reading the final draft last week. Chester worked hard and played hard. Dad always provided his family with a holiday home that served as a base to gather with friends for countless memories and photos - a ski chalet at Silver Star, a condo in Whistler, a lakefront home in the Interior and a villa in San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico. He loved his dogs, skiing, fishing and golfing. Dad never retired and although the Bionic Man's body challenged him at every turn, his mind remained clear and his determination to maintain his independence never wavered. Dad was happiest when working on his latest business deal or building project at one of his properties, and at age 84, tracked the world 24/7 on BNN while dreaming up new visions. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, April 8th, at St. David's United Church, 1525 Taylor Way, West Vancouver, followed by a reception to celebrate a life well lived. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada would be appreciated.