John Wood Whitwham

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John W. S. (Bud) Whitwham; husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Bud passed away earlier this month at the age of 90, following a short illness.

Bud was born in 1930 and grew up in Burnaby, BC where he graduated from Burnaby South High School. He attended the University of British Columbia and earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1954, before beginning his career as manager and partner at a pharmacy in North Burnaby. Bud and Muriel met in 1948 and they were wed in 1952; it was a love that lasted a lifetime. Three children followed and the young family relocated to Prince George in 1962, with Bud as manager and partner at 5th Avenue Pharmacy. In 1970, Bud moved over to sister-location Reid’s Prescriptions in the Victoria Medical Building, where he was a fixture in the dispensary until his retirement in 1993.

Muriel and Bud integrated themselves into the Prince George community and all that north-central BC had to offer for an active family. Summers were spent at the family cabin on Cluculz Lake, and later at a second cabin on Cluculz Lake that Bud had a large hand in designing and constructing. Winter weekends found the Whitwhams at Purden Mountain where they skied as a family and with friends. Muriel took up golf and Bud joined her later. Both were members of the Prince George Golf and Curling Club well into their retirement years. Bud was also a long-time member of the Prince George Rotary and Gyro Clubs.

Bud took great pride in his family and he set an example for us all. He is survived by Muriel, sister Carole, children Rob (Kalli), Sandy (Don), and Jay (Lisa), grandchildren Lindsey (Lloyd), Dylan (Danielle), Carlie, Alex, and great grandson Cohen.

Dad, we’re sure going to miss your wonderful sense of humour and all the love and support you gave to each of us. We owe you so much, and have countless memories that will always be in our hearts.

We would like to thank Dr. Barend Grobbelaar, staff at the internal medicine unit of the University Hospital of Northern BC, and staff at Hospice House Prince George, who provided Bud with great care and comfort during his illness. Bud’s family asks anyone who wishes to honour his memory to donate to the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation or the Prince George Hospice Society.