On Thursday, September 27, 2018 John Robert Lord, peacefully, and surrounded by family, passed into the presence of his Lord and Saviour at the age of 89 years.

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He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Margaret; parents Edmund and Gertrude and sisters Margaret Turnbull and Ruth Fredrickson. John is survived by three daughters; Marilyn Deveau (Gary); Carolyn O’Neill (Barry), and Darlene Belanger (David); grandchildren Taylor, Ainsley, Austin, Benjamin, and Jacquelyn; great-grandson Maxwell and numerous nieces and nephews.

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John was born May 24, 1929 to Edmund and Gertrude Lord.  He was raised in the Weston area where he attended King Edward, Cecil Rhodes, and Daniel McIntyre Collegiate.  After receiving his credentials from Normal School in 1951 he began his teaching career in rural Manitoba towns; Mapleton, Inwood, Gunton, Eden, and Holland, holding the position of principal in many of them. He also coached basketball, track and field and gymnastics.

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Being a life-long learner John took courses at the University of Winnipeg, University of Manitoba, and Red River Community College, eventually earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. His interest in woodworking combined with specialized training led him to the development of an Industrial Arts program at Stonewall Collegiate. He expanded and taught that program for the balance of his career.

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In 1954 he married his bride Margaret Stout. They moved several times as his job dictated, finally settling in Stonewall where they raised their three daughters. John worked tirelessly on improving their home with endless DIY projects which Margaret oversaw. 

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John was a meticulous gardener. He planted a huge vegetable plot with precision and was rewarded with bounty every year.  Lots was eaten fresh, but much was also canned to be enjoyed later. Beautiful trees and flower beds, impeccably groomed, filled the yards.

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John also did most of his own vehicle maintenance.  Hours were spent in the garage to keep the Ford, Nash and eventually a range of Oldsmobiles running in top order.  His kids are pretty sure he had the car manuals memorized.

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Summer holidays were a favourite time to travel.  The trailer would be loaded up for the annual trek west to visit family or to explore many parts of Canada and the US.  He also travelled to Scotland and England to explore his roots.

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John loved music.  As a boy he took piano lessons and then taught himself to play guitar.  He led singing at church, sang duets with Mom and encouraged each of his girls to pursue musical interests.  Later in life he led “hymn sings” at church, Blue Bird Lodge, and Calvary Place.

John was involved in Weston Gospel Church (now Cross Church) teaching Sunday School, leading the Youth Group, directing seasonal productions, and working steadily behind the scenes.

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Everything that John put his hand to was well thought out, with attention to detail and to the highest standard. 

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Above all, John was a gentleman.  He believed in holding doors, saying please and thank you, and helping people with their coats. He lived out his faith in God, often in quiet and unassuming ways, by being generous with his time, treasure and talents.  He loved his family completely and prayed for them everyday; his example was above reproach.

Although it’s hard to say good-bye to those we love, it causes us to reflect on John’s life and recognize the many ways he has affected and shaped our lives.

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A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 21 in Cross Church, 1787 Logan Avenue with a reception to follow.

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The family would like to thank the staff at Irene Baron and River East Personal Care Home for the care provided to John in his final years.

He will be missed.