With great sorrow, the family of John Stobbe of Duncan, BC, announce his passing at the Victoria General Hospital at the age of 86. On the morning of Friday, April 23, 2021, John was out for his daily e-bike ride, when someone ran a red light at the corner of Beverley and TCH. He succumbed from his injuries after 8 days in pain and only being able to see 3 family members once for a short period.
John was born at the family farm in Borden. His mother writes in her diary: " in 1934, the 6th of October, sonnie Johnnie was born. He was also born at home in old shack and this time I had a doctor and nurse taking care of me. He is a very fine baby, loved by all. He wasn't as shy as Anne. He has a very good personality."
John finished his schooling with his Teaching Certificate. Throughout his career, he continued with his education while raising a young family. Along with wife and mother of his children, Margaret Munro they lived in several communities in Saskatchewan.
He was principal at the Uranium City High School in the 60's & 70's. From there he moved to La Ronge where he was instrumental in setting up the Community College.
He also worked for several Saskatchewan First Nations Bands from Lac La Ronge Indian Band to Sweetgrass First Nation in the '80's and 90's. He would fondly recall stories from those days and was very proud of his career in education.
After retirement and a divorce, he started his 2nd act. He moved to Sparwood, BC where he enjoyed biking, cross- country skiing, and hiking. He completed several hikes including the Mantario Trail with 3 of his grandchildren, the Chillkoot Hike with 3 friends, Juan de Fuca Trail with his 2 granddaughters, El Camino Trail with Millie and Betty. He also went on a cycling tour through Cuba, competed in several cycling competitions in the BC Seniors Games.
He found his loving partner, Millie Logan in 2000 and then they started their adventures together. They travelled to many countries and enjoyed camping with their Boler trailer.
They enjoyed their winters on Vancouver Island so much, they made it their official home. In Duncan, he has made many friends. He loved getting together with his Ukulele groups, singing groups, and Sunday get togethers at Small Block Brew Pub for some strumming and singing.
His Friday afternoon Happy Hour gang was the highlight of his life for many years. We all knew not to schedule anything on Fridays 4-6. Thanks to his friends in Duncan for all the good times he had with them.
He was the type of dad and grandfather every kid should have. He spent countless hours enjoying time with all of them. He was a positive role model teaching them how to live a good life: spending time in nature, quality time with family, staying active, staying positive, and being kind.
John was predeceased by his daughter, Nancy Stobbe and daughter in law, Beverley Rowbotham. He will be forever missed by his loving companion, Millie Logan; daughter, Jane (Ken) Atchison; sons: Earl Stobbe, and Mark Stobbe (Marilyn); grandchildren: Amy (Tim Croft) Atchison, Jes Atchison (Chrystal), Sarah Atchison, Nicholas Stobbe (Rachel Astrup) and Jacob Stobbe; six great grandchildren: Emma and Lily Atchison, Miles and Ilyana Ambrose, Fiona and Magnus John Fogal; brothers: Arnold and Ed; sisters: Adeline and Alice; many nieces and nephews; Millie's children: Shauna (Bryan), and Sheldon as well as all of Millie's family who are also sad to say goodbye to John.
We would like to thank his care team at the Cowichan Hospital and Victoria General, 5th Floor Trauma. He told us he was receiving excellent care.
A Celebration of John's Life will be held at a later date. At his request, instead of a donation, please plant a tree to help the environment for future generations.Condolences may be offered online at www.sandsduncan.ca
Sands of Duncan