Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Schmitz after a short bout with cancer and a long battle with heart disease.

He was predeceased by his two younger brothers and is survived by two sisters in Germany. In 2010 John lost Joan, his loving wife of 52 years. He leaves behind his children Debbie, Lisa (Brad), Linda (Mark), John and Bill (Tamara). He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Dean, Jessica, Graham, Natasha, Heather, Mikayla and Izabella.

John came to Canada from Germany as a young man in 1955. He was a truly kind and generous soul who was always available to help anyone in need. John had many talents and all that he did was done to the highest quality.

When John moved to Powell River in 1965 with his family he continued work as a tradesman and business owner and quickly became known for the excellence of his work. John may be best known by local residents for the over 200 homes he built during his hard-working years. When his heart began to slow him down, he began his short career as an artist. Self-taught, he painted with the same precision that he had built with. John sang as a tenor and soloist in many choirs, was a member of Knights of Columbus, enjoyed his garden, bicycle riding, socializing and debating with friends in the community.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of John’s friends, Dr. Burns, Dr. Hoffert and Dr. Takhar and all of the doctors and nursing staff at Powell River General Hospital and the wonderful caring staff at Evergreen Extended Care Unit who made him smile and provided comfort during his last weeks.

“Earth lost a fighter but heaven gained an angel”