John Albert Lazzarin was born on June 16, 1926 and passed away on September 5, 2009.
John is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Gloria, son Michael Jay (Janice), daughters Theresa Marie (Rick), Darcy Lorraine, Celia Carlotta (Greg), grandchildren Jeremy, Lydia, Martin, Michael, sisters Flavia (Richard) Gook, Floretta McDonald and numerous nieces and nephews.
John is predeceased by his mother Carlotta and father John Sr.
John loved the community of Quesnel where he was born on June 19, 1926 and lived his entire life. He was only away in Vancouver for a few years for education at Vancouver College and UBC.
He met Gloria Hryciuk in Quesnel at a Firemen’s Klondike Night in 1948 which led to their marriage on August 4, 1951. They recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary and were hoping to have their 60th together.
In keeping with his Italian roots, his life centered around home and family. He lived with his young family for 30 years in North quesnel where the children were all raised near their schools and recreation facilities. During this time, he initiated the famous 600 Block McLean Street Golf Tournament which continued for 20 years. He grew to love the new home on 10 Mile Lake which his wife convinced him to build 27 years ago. He also loved his vacation home in Maui which he and Gloria owned for 10 years.
He was extremely proud of his four children, their accomplishments and their character. He was pleased that they had all developed a happy home life for themselves.
In 1947 he joined the Home Oil bulk oil distribution plant with his father, assuming sole management in 1949. He enjoyed the varied clientele and so stayed in the fuel distribution business with BA, then Gulf Oil, retiring in 1986.
John had many interests during his lifetime. He was a charter member of the Quesnel Kinsmen and Quesnel Naturalists. He was an avid spectator of all sports with the exception of cricket. As a participant, he was a bowler in the 60’s and lifetime curler and golfer (3 holes-in-one). He played the trumpet in his youth and loved music from the 40’s and 50’s. While he and his wife Gloria travelled to many parts of the world, he never lost his fear of flying.
His passion was the Quesnel Volunteer Firefighters Association for which is served nearly 40 years as an active fireman followed by 20 years as an associate member.
John never envied any other lifestyle, and was happy and content with the blessings in his own life.
He will be missed mostly for his unique and original sense of humour.
Funeral service to be held Friday, September 11, 2009 at 1:00 pm at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Father Martin Peyton officiating, to be followed by graveside ceremony and reception at St. Ann’s Hall.
Donations may be made in John’s memory to: Quesnel and District Palliative Care Association, Box 4537, Quesnel, B.C. V2J 3J8.