John Protz

It is with great sadness, but with tremendous gratitude for his life, that we announce the passing of John Protz. John passed away peacefully in Canmore on May 23, 2015 at the age of 81 years while surrounded by his family.

John is survived by his loving wife and lifelong partner Vera. They enjoyed many happy times over 56 years of marriage, raising their four boys and travelling the world. John is also survived by his four sons; James, Rob, Doug (Sherry), Don (Diana), grandchildren Julia and Max, brother Wally (Judy) and nephews Ryan and Chris. John now joins his parents William and Irene, and granddaughter Hayley in heaven.

John began his career the day after graduating from high school and enjoyed 37 years of service with Edmonton Telephones before retiring and relocating with Vera to Canmore in 1995.

John was an accomplished and active community service member. He served in many volunteer capacities with his generous spirit in his leisure time; cub and scout leader, baseball and soccer coach, Ed Tel society organizer, Chalmers Church fundraisers, and Canmore Seniors Association Treasurer. His activities with past and present Canmore Curmudgeon Club members were also a source of happiness.

John's greatest source of joy was his family and he could always be relied upon to generously provide assistance whenever needed. Time with his grandchildren was cherished. His retirement years in his much loved Rocky Mountains were highlighted by his daily assistance with his sons' businesses in Canmore. His abundant help and support with these activities will be very fondly remembered and greatly missed.

John's family wish to express their heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care from the staff at the Calgary Foothills Hospital and the Tom Baker Cancer Clinic with special appreciation to the staff, nurses and

Dr. G. Duggleby at the Canmore Hospital for their care of John

during his illness.

Friends and family joined together in an informal gathering

at John & Vera's home in Canmore on Thursday, June 11, 2015 where everyone shared a drink and a few stories. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent directly to the Canmore and Area Heath Care Foundation, dedicated to the Palliative Care Unit, 1100 Hospital Place, Canmore T1W 1N2 in memory of John.

A tree will be planted in Canmore in memory of our Dad, Husband, Grandfather, and Friend; John.

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.