John Joseph Campbell

Born in Glace Bay on April 17, 1942, he had an unfortunate start in life and was placed in foster care at 2 years of age. He grew up in Sydney Mines never knowing his parents or family members.

At the age of 18, he headed for Ontario and worked in the mines there. On March 21, 1962, he said he made the best decision of his life when he joined the Canadian Armed Forces, in which he would serve for the next 33 years. This career took him all over Canada and Europe. He was proud to have been part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces that received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988.

While posted in CFB Gagetown, he met the love of his life, Deborah Hanson. They were married for over 59 years until her passing last July. They never had children but welcomed many fur babies into their lives over the years, all cocker spaniels except for one shih tzu

Jay was a very happy person, in spite of all he had been through in childhood. He will be remembered for his perpetual smile and easy going demeanor. More than anything, he was grateful for any small act of kindness or compassion shown to him.

Jay is survived by his sisters in law, Juanita Healy and Robyn (Ron) Peterson, all of Dartmouth, as well as one niece and two nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife, Deborah, and brother in law, Michael Healy.

In keeping with Jay's wishes, cremation has taken place. His ashes will be returned to the Bras D'Or Lakes in Cape Breton, where he spent many happy days swimming as a child.