(fondly known as Boomie)
John Hudson passed away on April 17, 2009 at Chilliwack BC at age 89 years. He was born October 13, 1919 in Meath Park, SK.
John is survived by his daughters: Cindy (Wayne) Helmer, Jackie Hudson, Roxanne (Randy) Bergen and Sue (Bill) McLean; his sons: David (Beverly), Ken, Rock (Michelle), Paul and Sam; grandchildren: Holly, Amber, Jason, Sean, Amanda, Danny, Cory, Cody, Caitlyn, Samantha, Brianna, Tyrell, Dylan and Carly as well as many great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife Mary, grandson Johnny Hudson and his siblings.
John spent his first years farming with his family in Meath Park, SK. He was one of 14 children and after marrying his childhood sweetheart, Mary, had seven children of their own and adopted two more, making a family of nine.
He enlisted in the Army for World War II, even before he was able. When the war was over, he returned and settled in with his wife and family, working various careers which included farming, fishing in the north, owning/operating a sawmill, and foster parenting. The family eventually moved to Maple Ridge in 1967 where he worked, until his retirement, as caretaker for the Rec Centre.
John and Mary moved to Cultus Lake where they remained for the duration of their lives. John was a caring, generous, loving man who always made time for everyone he met. His sense of humour was incredible, even to the end.
Co-facilitating a foster home with Mary for over 35 years, John helped hundreds of children in troubled families, many whom kept in touch later in their lives.
John will be remembered for having the biggest heart one could imagine, and a smile that would light up any darkened day. John believed in being positive all the time.
Ever grateful for all the help he was given in the last years of his life, he had always professed that if you were able to offer a hand, you should offer it.
He was the strongest-willed person we have known, and always stood for what he believed in – his willpower and strength were an inspiration to all of us and we will sorrowfully miss his presence. We know he is with his family in Heaven now, and we will see him again.
An open house Celebration of Life will be held on April 25, 2009 from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm at 3910 Columbia Valley Rd. Cultus Lake, BC. We invite everyone who would like to visit to come and share stories and laughs…. John would have loved that.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice. John believed in helping others as much as you were able to.
Online condolences can be left at www.mem.com