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John Wilkes

1950-2020

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Ross Wilkes, 70, of New Glasgow at home on February 12, 2020. Born in New Glasgow he was a son of the late John MacMillan and Phyllis Marian (Ross) Wilkes. Besides his parents John was predeceased by his nephew, Robert John Wilkes.

John is survived by his brother, Harry (Heather) Wilkes, Amherst; sisters, Marian (George) Tomlik, Lower Sackville; Janet (Marcel) Deveau, Kings Head; and Susan (George) Johnston, Lower Sackville; and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and special aunts, Susan Ross and Joan Ross.

John lived his whole life in New Glasgow except for occasional jobs which took him to various Maritime locations. He loved to travel through the towns and villages and especially the harbours and seashores in Nova Scotia. His travels took him to England and Scotland when he won a trip. He shared the trip with his Mom and he could remember all the details of that excursion. This was a highlight for John and he soaked up all the history that he could. 

John graduated from Mount Allison University and always proudly wore his Mt. A. ring. His varied jobs included working in his father’s insurance brokerage business in downtown New Glasgow. He eventually was the sole operator of that business. He also worked in The Bank of Nova Scotia and at Convergys.

John will be remembered for his love of curling as a participant, coach and friend. The Bluenose Curling Club was his second home for many years. He also had an interest in photography, painting, landscaping, and gardening. 

When it became evident that his mother required continuing care, John became a care giver to his Mom. His devotion to her enabled her to remain in her home until hospitalization was required. John’s many years of tending his Mom was done as he said. "Because she always looked after me"  

He loved the area his family refers to as "The Shore." In his childhood he spent all summer there arriving at the end of the school year and returning to town only when school began once more. As an adult he was also able to be at his beloved beach and enjoy the familiar location and family gatherings.

John will be remembered by his nieces and nephews as the Uncle who took them on adventures such as white water rafting on the Shubenacadie, hiking the Sampson Trail and exploring The Museum of Industry. Less exciting, but much appreciated, were the Sundays that he would arrive to take these children for a beach walk to allow the parents to prepare the meal. A walk around the Point was just about the perfect activity for busy children.

A special Thank You to the VON, the Diabetic Care team and Dr. Soliman for the care given to John over the years.

Cremation has taken place under the care of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow. A visitation will be held from 12-1pm Thursday, February 20th and at 1pm there will be a Celebration of Life, with Rev. Dr. Glen Matheson presiding, followed by a reception, all at the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of John may be made to Diabetes Canada, the VON or to a charity of your choice.  

 

Service Date
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Service Time
1pm
Service Location
R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow

Visitation
Thursday, February 20
Visitation Time
12-1pm
Visitation Location
R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow

Requested Charity
Diabetes Canada, VON, Charity of Choice