John Forbes Philip

-His was a life well lived-

Our dearest John passed away peacefully at the age of 91 surrounded by his family. He is survived by Pamela, his wife of 62 years, his daughter Penelope (Peter), his son Alexander (Natalia) and was predeceased by his son, Andrew (Tracy). He leaves behind 7 grandchildren and a new great grandson, four siblings, predeceased by his eldest sister Marg, and many nieces and nephews.

John began life in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, graduated from Stanstead College, then McGill University as a mechanical engineer. His career throughout was in the Paper industry, first with Domtar and then later with Scott Paper. His transfer from Quebec to Vancouver in 1975 was most fortuitous as Quebec was considering separation. After John’s first retirement in 1994, he consulted internationally as a fine paper specialist, travelling to South America, Europe, China and Southeast Asia. These were exciting trips to foreign lands which he thoroughly enjoyed.

When not travelling, John became an ambassador for Whistler Mtn, proudly escorting skiing visitors around the ‘Big Softie’. The perfect role for a natural conversationalist. And he took particular pleasure in using the free ski pass which came with the position. John loved a good deal.

Winters were spent skiing at Whistler with his family and friends and after his second retirement, many years were enjoyed in Palm Desert playing golf, tennis and bridge. He and Pamela joined Seymour Golf Club and with friends shared wonderful golf adventures in BC and Washington State. The highlights of his golfing career were the 3 Holes-in-One. Only 6 less than his brother, Alex!

At home he was an active member of Hollyburn Country Club, excelling at tennis and squash. He served as a Director of Racquets and was on the board of the 1987 Federation Cup where he met Chris Evert and Pam Shriver. John was also a 2003 charter member of The Probus Club -North Shore, where he enjoyed the wide-ranging list of guest speakers and social offerings the club organized.

Bridge, cribbage and chess were high on his list with grandchildren, family and friends. Even after his eyesight began failing, he was keen to hear about interesting hands or another way to bid/play the hand. Always fun to be his partner.

John and Pamela enjoyed some wonderful global travels together which included Russia, Britain many times, Turkey, most of Europe, the Caribbean, South America, Asia and the USA. John’s favourite was the Danube River cruise in 2007; Pamela’s was Voyages to Antiquity in 2013, highlighting Butrint, the archeological site in Albania.

Summers in Vancouver included holidays at Redroofs on the Sunshine Coast which provided wonderful time with family, lazy beach days, happy hours and dinners al fresco; Such precious time.

As we say goodbye to the patriarch of our family-Dad, Phil, Magoo, Papa, Johnnie-we are forever grateful for his unwavering support, deep sense of loyalty, friendship, along with good-humoured stories and dad jokes that will be passed down for generations. Most of all, we will cherish his unconditional love.

“ The Philip family would like to offer our sincere thanks to the staff at Lions Gate Hospital from the ER to General Medicine to the Palliative Care Unit who looked after John so kindly during his stay. A special thanks to Dr. Sethna and his team on 7 West for their help in walking us through a difficult time.”

Thank you for all that you gave to us.