It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of John Brown Innes on July 4th, 2006 at Crossroads Hos–pice in Port Moody.
A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he will be sadly missed by his loving partner and wife of 48 years Elizabeth; his devoted children; Cheryl and Bill Webb, Sandy Innes, Scott Innes and Sabrina Daniells, Cathy and Dave Wood; his grandchildren; Billy and Bobby Webb, Ashlee, Matthew, and Cailee Innes, Madelyne and Meghan Innes, Jason, Tyler and Scott Wood; his mother in-law Nancy Kawalilak; his sisters Jean (Elmer) Buchanan and Mary York; brother in law Ralph (Nancy) Kaye; and by many loving friends and family. (Kith and Kin here and abroad.)
John was born in Vancouver, BC September 3rd, 1935 to John (Jack) and Mary Innes.
He met and fell in love with Liz and they married on November 23rd, 1957. They lived and raised their family in various communities around the Lower Mainland collecting neighbours and friends along the way.
John began a highly successful career with B.C. Tel in 1955 where he held various positions in the organization, beginning as a Cable Splicer and retiring after 37 years from the position of Director of Environment. John was a recipient of the Governor General’s award for his ground breaking work in corporate environmental responsibilities.
John was very active in all the communities that he lived in. His volunteer activities included; Vancouver City Police Dog training, Richmond Volunteer Fire Department, Kinsmen, Coquitlam Minor Soccer, Coquitlam Minor Lacrosse, Adanac’s Lacrosse team, BC Summer Games, Lindell Beach Residence Association, and St. Mary’s Parish Council. He was an active supporter and promoter of his children’s and grandchildren’s activities and interests.
John’s passions were; his family and friends, his dogs, all things Scottish, golf, fishing, cards, travel, a wee dram of scotch (single malt), Cultus lake, and a good laugh. He will be sorely missed for his quick wit, infectious smile, and his welcoming personality.
He put up a courageous fight against cancer for two and half years surprising many with his strength of spirit to live his life to the fullest and making every day count.
Heartfelt thanks to; Drs. Richard J. Finley and Mike Grunow, the Chilliwack Palliative team and community nurses, the amazing Crossroad Hospice Nurses and team (they were angels among us.)
A funeral mass will be held on Monday July 10th, 2006, 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Church (8909 Mary St. Chilliwack) Celebrant Father Craig Scott. Refreshments to follow in the Church hall.
At John’s request in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band, Advancement Office, SFU, 8888 University Dr. Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Acct # 210082 in memory of John Innes.