John Alexander Larkin

With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of John at the Grace Hospital with his family by his side, after a long seven year battle with lung cancer.

He is survived by his wife Barbara (Brydon) of 32 years, son Harlo, daughter Melissa and most cherished grandson Hayden. He is also survived by his sister Gail ( Hoss Schell ), brothers Andy (Diana), Howard (Verna) and sister Donna Olson (Rick Hamilton), countless nieces and nephews and a very large extended family, all of whom he cherished very much.

John was born January 4, 1953 to Paul and Josie Larkin. He spent most of his years growing up in the St. Charles and Crestview areas of St. James. After high school John attended Red River College and obtained his Journeyman Electrician’s Certificate. He worked as an Electrician for over 40 years. He loved his years working construction where he travelled extensively in the north. In 1988 he wanted to be home more with his family and joined CFB 17 Wing Winnipeg as a maintenance electrician where he was home every night!

He married his loving wife Barbara in 1980 and then had two great children, Harlo born 1985 and Melissa born 1987. They made their home in Headingley where John was very involved in the community. He coached hockey and baseball for many years out of Phoenix Community Club. He worked tirelessly for his Headingley United Church volunteering, in the choir, grass cutting and was legendary in the Dinner Theater Group. He was the number one fan of all Harlo and Melissa’s activities and sports and this past spring enjoyed watching his grandson Hayden play ball.

Family and friends were always close to his heart and he took every opportunity to be with them. While in the hospital this was returned to him by the number of visitors and calls he had. John and Barbara enjoyed numerous winter trips to warm climates and “500” card games with Barbara’s brother and sister-in-law Barry and Marion Brydon.

Three years ago John’s life adventures involved joining in as partner with his two brothers, sister Donna and the Johnson friends in purchasing Sportsman’s Corner Campground. He enjoyed his days there, where he could be found just hanging out at the store visiting or circulating from camp fire to camp fire! He cherished all the many new friends he made there, as he loved people.

Throughout his seven year battle with lung cancer he never gave up! He was given such exceptional care by all the doctors and nurses at Cancer Care. In particular we want to remember the tireless love and care given by Dr. P. Harris, the Grace Cancer Care Team, Emergency staff and 4 South Team.

Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday February 12th at 2: 00 PM at Grace Community Church, Perimeter Highway South of Roblin Blvd.

If you wish to remember John, a donation may be made in his memory to Headingley United Church, 110 Bridge Road, Headingley MB R4H 1G3 or Cancer Care Manitoba, 675 McDermot Ave. Winnipeg MB R3E 0V9.