Obituary of John Fredrick Clarke

Clarke- Mr. John Fredrick 1920 - 2010 With heartfelt sadness the family of John Fredrick Clarke announce his passing on Wed. February 10, 2010 at Whispering Pine Place Nursing Home in Canwood, Sk at the age of 89 years. John was born to Florence and James Clarke at Govan, SK on August 17, 1920. He attended Govan School until he was called away to War. When John returned he decided to try his hand at raising chickens and rabbits. John was known for his large garden and fruit trees. He then bought a grain truck and did custom grain hauling for the local farmers. He would also do custom lawn cutting and snow removal in the winter. John then went on to work for C.P.R as a section man. Further down the road John also took on the job of grounds keeper at Last Mountain lake Regional Park. Another one of John's passions was hunting wild game, and in the winter he tried his hand at netting white fish. On July 7, 1978 John married the love of his life, Elva Sloan. John and Elva did not have any children of their own but had many nieces and nephews that they got to spoil, John even taught some of them to walk. John will be remembered as a happy go lucky guy. He always enjoyed a good game of cards, a game of Bingo, or playing the lotteries. When John lost his leg he became a resident of Rabbit Lake Nursing Home. He then moved over to Spiritwood, and finally into Whispering Pine Place in Canwood. He was always wheeling around in his wheelchair keeping the nurses on their toes. We all love you Uncle John, we had many good laughs. John leaves to mourn his three sister in-laws Sylvia Clarke of Melfort, SK; Margaret Clarke of Regina, SK; and Gwen Clarke of Swift Current, SK; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his wife Elva (nee:Sloan) Clarke; his parents Florence and James Clarke; his brothers Harry Clarke; Thomas Clarke; Bill Clarke; Dave Clarke; a sister in-law Nancy Clarke; a step son Ernie Sloan; and a nephew Kenny Clarke. The Funeral Service for John took place on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. from the Govan United Church in Govan, SK. Rev. Shirley Kamphuis was officiant, Cathy Lehouillier read the eulogy, Evelyn Hancock was the organist and the "Legion" acted as honorary pallbearers. The active pallbearers were Gary Wilson, Jamie Wilson, Edward Clarke, John McFadyen, James McFadyen and Layton Clarke. Interment took place in the Govan Cemetery, and Memorial Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.