John (Giovanni) Greco

John was born in San Giovanni in Fiore, Calabria, Italy. His grandfather, Antonio immigrated to Canada and settled in Hazelton, BC, where, after establishing a homestead, was joined by John’s father, Lorenzo, mother, Saletta and their 5 sons in 1949. From his teenage years and throughout much of his life, John became a man who travelled, explored, and worked across much of Canada. He was an adventurer who was very resourceful and enjoyed a wide variety of experiences. While he could be very opinionated and stubborn - always doing things his way – to the very end, he was always open to making new friends and sharing his tall tales. He always loved to dance, at one time having taught at the Arthur Murray School of Dance. He was also a cowboy at heart who loved country music, blue jeans, rhinestones, and karaoke singing. Upon settling back in Prince George in 2006, he was always quick to volunteer his time for many charities and community events - notably with the Spirit of the North Festival of Trees, at the Senior Citizen’s Activity Centre where he had an honorary life membership, and playing Santa Claus at the mall. Most recently, he enjoyed baking his “famous” apple pies that he sold at the downtown market.

John is survived by 3 children – daughter, Lowanda Greco of Calgary, son, Kevin Ripa (Sheri) of Calgary, and daughter, Nicole Ripa (Buddy) of Moose Jaw; and two grandchildren Grayson and Cassandra. His four brothers: “big brother” Joe (Joanne) of Prince George, Joseph (Caterina) of Windsor, Ont, Tony (Linda) of Smithers and “kid brother” Vic (Carla) of Prince George, as well as numerous nieces and nephews coast to coast.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lorenzo and Saletta Greco and his adventurous fun-loving nephew, Lorenzo (Larry) Greco.

The Greco family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the patience and care offered by Dr. Saif, and nurses on the Cardiac Unit at UHNBC, as well as Dr. Kalenga and the nurses of the Cardiac Unit at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver.

Thank you to the Milani family for their love and above-and-beyond support. As well as a very special mention to John’s “son-in-law” and “breakfast buddy”, John Milani, whose support and quiet patience was always immeasurably appreciated.

A quote John liked: “You don’t stop playing because you grow old, you grow old because you stop playing”.

As per John’s wishes, there will be no formal service.

Expressions of remembrance can be made via a donation in John’s name to either Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation or The Prince George Seniors Activity Centre.