May 10, 1930 - March 10, 2025
In loving memory ~
John passed away peacefully at Cowichan Hospice House in Duncan, BC.
Predeceased by his parents Nickolas and Christina Berikoff, brother Michael and nephew Kevin. Survived by his loving wife Margaret (Thompson), whom he married in Queen Margaret's School Chapel in 1957, sister Faye Gray of Abbotsford, BC, nephews and nieces Rob Gray (Linda) of Sointula, BC, Gail Kivari of Abbotsford, BC, Tom Berikoff of Red Deer, AB, and Nancy Henderson (Rick) of Kemptville, ON.
John was born and raised on the family farm in Arran, Saskatchewan where there was an abundance of labour and little in the way of material possessions. This formed the groundwork for his hard working and waste not lifestyle. After high school in Arran, he moved to B.C. where he graduated with his CGA. He spent 34 years in the Municipal field - the Municipality of Saanich, Capital Regional District and retired after 17 years as Administrator with the District of North Cowichan. John's time at North Cowichan was a pivotal period. With his quiet advice, he guided a young Mayor and new Council, while developing an efficient administration and public works. He provided oversight of the redevelopment of Chemainus, the nationally acclaimed forest management program, the Chemainus and south end industrial parks, the first official community plan, an annual capital road program, the employment bridging assistance forestry program that helped nearly 1000 unemployed people during the difficult 1980s, all within a tight financial plan that kept municipal taxes low. He then served as an Executive Assistant to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of Labour in the Provincial Government.
He was Past President of the Victoria Chapter CGA's and the Duncan Rotary Club (Honourary Member). He was a Life Member of the United Peninsula Lodge #24 and a charter member of the Probus Club of the Cowichan Valley. Over the years, John was involved in the community with the Cowichan Tribes, Cowichan Lodge, Canadian Cancer Society, Providence Farms, Duncan Dabber Bingo Society and the Island Corridor Foundation. He enjoyed a long and interesting retirement exploring many countries, from the Pyramids to Ayers Rock, the Great Wall of China to the icebergs of Antarctica. He faithfully attended the early service at St. Peter Quamichan, devoured war histories and was an ardent fan of the Canucks and BC Lions.
Special thanks for their caring support to Dr. Zaan Davies, Cowichan Home Support, the ambulance paramedics, CDH Medical Staff, Cowichan Hospice House, Sandra Lukoni Graham and Anneke Bruce for helping keep the vigil.
At John's request, there will be no service. Donations may be made to the Rotary Foundation, Box #473, Duncan, BC. Cremation and interment at Hatley Memorial Gardens, Colwood, BC. Arrangements by First Memorial Funeral Services, 375 Brae Road, Duncan, BC.
