John George Macdonald

John was born August 4, 1942 in Vancouver and lived with his family [parents John and Ethel], and younger brothers [Donald and Lewis] at 2295 Parker Street until 8 years of age when a tragic car accident took his mother and youngest brother. John and Don moved to Roberts Creek to live with their grandparents [George and Ethel Rose]. John completed grade 3 and then he and his brother moved to Abbotsford to live with their Aunt and Uncle [Art and Ada Taylor] and cousins Ken, Doug and Jim for his Grade 4 year. While John was in Grade 5 his grandparents relocated to Abbotsford so the two brothers moved back to live with them on McCrimmon Drive. Grandpa George passed away while John was attending Grade 9 so "Grannie Rose" raised John and Don until they became independent after High School Graduation at Abbotsford Senior Secondary.

John was employed with the Abbotsford Bakery as a delivery driver for over 25 years. He married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Crouter, and in his 20 year marriage had many fond memories of happy times with Bev and her parents Richie and Enid.

John started volunteering at the local Salvation Army in his early fifties, and this led to full-time employment where he became highly involved with the "Emergency Shelter" at the Centre of Hope. He was recognized several times for his dedication in helping the less fortunate in our society.

John enjoyed many rewarding friendships through his employment with the Salvation Army. He was proud of the work he was doing and appreciated the comfortable, caring atmosphere at the Army, and the people he worked with. He loved getting together with his cronies for coffee or just driving around with his friends. John always had a story to tell...sometimes he told them a second time [in case you weren't listening the first time]. His upbeat attitude and friendly demeanor was always evident both at work and when socializing with friends. And when dining at his brother's home he always declared Pat was the best cook ever. When you drove anywhere with John you couldn't help but notice he had a comment for anyone he met...he loved "chatting". John experienced medical difficulties in his latter years but maintained that upbeat personality. He appreciated what he had in life.

John lived at Central Heights Manor for his last 15 years, where he often commented on how friendly and caring the other residents were. Coffee sessions and special group meals were a real treat.

When he wasn’t able to drive anymore he felt so fortunate to have his friend Nick [along with his brother Don and other] always available to take him out for a meal, a medical appointment, or simply a joyride. And he loved getting phone calls from friends where he would assure them "I'm still here". In his final months he had excellent support and care from the nurses at Fraser Health and Dr. Pillay.

He passed away where he wanted to be....in his own home with his brother Don by his side.

John will be sorely missed by his brother, sister-in-law Pat, nieces and nephews [and their families], cousins [Ken, Doug and Jim], special friends Bev McGregor, Nick Klassen and those at the Salvation Army.

In memory of John, anyone wanting to do so could donate to the Abbotsford Salvation Army.