May 25, 1934 - September 22, 2023
It is with great sadness that the Family of John Shaw announces the passing of their Dad, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather surrounded by loved ones at the age of 89 at Castleview Care Centre on September 22, 2023.
John was born in Revelstoke, B.C. He started work at the age of 17 in Revelstoke at the sawmill. He also was a tree faller on the muskeg In Burns Lake B.C. Following that job, he moved to Alberta with his Grandparents and Aunt and Uncle. John trained with the Edmonton Police Force and became a Police officer in Lacombe, Alberta from 1954 to 1959. This is where he met his Wife Helen. One of his duties was to check the doors of the Telephone Office. This is where Helen worked. He also joined the Armored Division Kings Own Calgary Regiment. He had his two sons Don and Bob in Lacombe, and then the family moved up to ValleyView , Alberta to join the police force, from 1959 to 1965. He was involved with the Elks in Valleyview and helped them build their first building. He was also a member of the Legion and the Kinsmen Club. John and Helen had their daughter Kathy while living in Valley View. The job wasn't as secure as he hoped so he packed up the family and moved to Castlegar,B.C in 1965 where he was hired to work at the Pulp Mill. He worked at the mill for 27 . years.
John was involved with the Masonic Lodge for 50 years. He held high positions in the Lodge and looked after quite a few lodges in the Castlegar and surrounding areas as far away as Nakusp. He was honored in a ceremony to celebrate his 50th year with the Masons in 2023. He was also involved with the Shriners organization.
John was a storyteller with a contagious laugh and left an impression on anyone who met him. He loved to meet new people and have a chat. He loved camping and fishing. His favorite thing by far was to go with his Wood Buddy (his Son Bob) into the mountains to see what logs were available to get for firewood. It was always an adventure and great memories. Even after John could no longer participate in gathering their prize logs, Bob took him up the mountain so he could enjoy it. He loved every outing.
John loved to pick Huckleberries and would never give out his Location as to where his berry patches were. He also would be picking berries and tell whoever was with him to be careful as there was a Bear nearby. He could smell them, he said.
He was very Proud of his Grandchildren Ashlee, Troy (Ashley) and Jeff (Irene) and all they have accomplished. The apples of his eyes were his Great Grandchildren, Jaxon, Lucas and Bria.
John is predeceased by his Wife Helen in 1994. He is survived by his children Don (Sherri), Bob (Luane), Kathy (Mike)
He will be missed by all and kept close to our hearts forever.
There will be no service as requested by John.
Donations can be made to his favorite charity the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of John and Helen Shaw.
Messages of condolence for the family can be made at www.castlegarfuneral.com