John Perch Thobo-Carlsen

John Perch Thobo-Carlsen, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 17th, 2022 at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC. He was born in Odense, Denmark on July 20th, 1934 to Paul and Paula Thobo-Carlsen—the second of three children.

John immigrated to Canada in 1954 and worked for several years in Alberta and Saskatchewan before finally settling in BC. John married Sheila Anne Munro of Vancouver, BC, and during 61 years of marriage they made homes together in Kamloops, Penticton, Prince George and Fort St. James. A trained accountant, he later co-owned and operated several businesses in Prince George and Fort St. James. John was a long-time volunteer for the sport of speed skating. He served as the first president of the Prince George Speed Skating Club (5 years) and later became president of the BC Speed Skating Association (2 years). He was a Level 2-certified coach and Level 3-certified referee who helped run many meets and competitions across the province. In Fort St. James, John was also heavily involved in the community—serving as chair and treasurer of Stuart Lake Community Futures (17 years), president of the Chamber of Commerce (2 years), and treasurer of the Arts Council (5 years).

John was predeceased in death by his son Billie; wife Sheila and brother Preben. He is survived by his sister Hanne; daughter Anne; son Paul; grandchildren Toven, Jennifer, Alexa and Erin, and great-grandsons Madan and Ryland.

John will be fondly remembered for his passion and strong commitment to family, work and many community organizations. Respecting John’s wishes, no public service will be held. Special thanks to the staff of Northern Health in Prince George whose excellent support helped keep John comfortable in his final years.