"Hi Folks. Most of you know me as a man of few words but I needed to say to my friends and family thank you for being such a huge part of my life. I was born in McKellar General Hospital in 1949 and was told that I literally hit the ground running. I have met so many wonderful people and had some many life changing experiences in my 73 years. I just want to take some time to tell you how much you have impacted my life.
To the original Striders Running Group. We had some great times training for marathons. I especially loved when our long runs ended at the Stanley Hotel for some famous Stanley Burgers and beer. Thanks for those memories. I still have and cherish the jacket and sweatshirt.
To the Squash Community: Our tournaments and social games were always challenging and great fun. Love those drop shots. Getting together for the social aspect of the game was a highlight, reliving and replaying every shot. Thank you for each and every game I played with you (even those I lost).
Thank you to my teammates with whom I played on the Mustangs, in the Men's Touch Football League, the Senior Men's Basketball League and Senior Men's Baseball, sports near and dear to my heart. Being a part of a team and the camaraderie we shared were very special times in my life.
To the various Boards and committees of which I was so fortunate to be a part. The Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, The Heart and Stroke Association, Kairos, The 10 mile Road Race Committee and all the other events to which I was able to contribute. I hope I was able to give back at least a portion of all that I got from being a part of these groups.
To the staff at the Complex and Confederation Wellness Centre (originally Fitness Centre) being a part of a community invested in health and wellness was an honour. Thank you.
To the Cardiac Rehab and Stroke Rehab groups with which I worked at the Complex. It was never ‘a job', it was my privilege to be a part of your recovery. I also loved our coffee get togethers at the Marina and local coffee shops.
To the Klown Band which allowed me to be their sound man for many years. You make a difference in the lives of the people to whom you perform and you made a difference in mine. Thank you.
Last but definitely not least, thank you to the running community of Thunder Bay and especially the gang, the Lakehead Masters Running Club. You were not just my friends; you were my family. I just want you to keep doing those A's and B's with knees up and heels up. You made my life complete.
Thank you to the wonderful caring staff at the TCU (Transitional Care Unit) for the care and dignity you gave me in my final week. It got my family and myself through a very tough time.
So, in parting, I want to thank everyone for making such a difference in my life. I even forgive ‘Sudsy” for naming me “Jocko”. Speaking of Sudsy, he's waiting for me for a long-awaited run. Love to all.” Johnny G.
John is survived by his partner Lynne Peters, Sue and Matt Wilson and family, Wayne Peters and family, cousins in Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. He was predeceased by his parents John and Eileen Garland and DeeDee.
A gathering to share stories and celebrate John's life will be held November 19th, 2:00 p.m. at the Valhalla Ballroom.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, Pro Kids or the Thunder Bay District Humane Society or a Charity of Your Choice.
