At 100 years old, John is a vibrant and beloved figure in the community—his warmth and humour light up every room he enters. Born in New Westminster, BC during the Depression, he relied on the strength of family and friends to get by. John met his wife Anne in Vancouver. They married in 1953 in Edmonton, close to Anne’s family, and soon began building a life together. John’s career took him to Washington, but the couple’s hearts remained in Canada. A chance conversation at a party led to a job offer from a BC company, and they returned home to raise their sons, John and Jim.
John is still known for his warmth, wit, and unwavering devotion to his family – especially to his son Jim. Their lives have been deeply connected, shaped by love, advocacy, and a shared journey of learning and growth. John’s involvement with PLAN began through his friend Jack Collins, and he quickly became a passionate advocate, serving on the board and pushing for stronger support systems for families like his.
From the moment Jim was born, John recognized his unique brilliance. When Jim was just a child, John handed him a Rubik’s Cube, and to his amazement, Jim solved it in seconds. Later, a psychologist was left speechless when Jim completed every logic puzzle in record time but couldn’t explain how—proof to John that his son’s mind worked in extraordinary ways.
Jim’s talents continued to shine at Douglas College, where he studied electronics. His abilities quickly outpaced the curriculum, and he was asked to help correct his classmates’ work—essentially stepping into a teaching role. John saw this as a missed calling, believing Jim was born for quality control, just ahead of his time! When Anne, Jim’s mother and a founding family member of Autism BC, passed away in 2011, Jim was deeply affected. He grew quiet, needing time and space to grieve. Yet, in a moment of quiet pride, he stood at her funeral and delivered a speech John had helped him prepare—his way of honouring her legacy and expressing love in his own way.
Today, Jim continues to share his gifts with the community. Every Wednesday, he visits John at his residence to play hymns on the piano for the other residents. The joy he brings is unmistakable. John beams with pride, saying, “I’ve learned to love him just the way he is.” With the support of PLAN, Spectrum, and a strong personal network, John feels hopeful and at ease about Jim’s future. Through years of thoughtful future planning—building Jim’s circle of support, creating a clear vision for his ongoing care, and ensuring trusted relationships and safeguards are in place—John has gained true peace of mind. He knows that Jim’s life—rooted in relationships, creativity, and quiet strength—will continue to flourish, guided by the love and care that has always surrounded him.