John E.A. Yates

It’s with heavy hearts, we announce the recent passing of our father and grandfather, John Yates, on May 3, 2022. The eldest of 4 sons, he was born in 1930 to John (Jack) and Elizabeth (Lillian) Yates in Shrewsbury, England. As a young man, he loved sports and played football and was a boy scout. After completing his education at grammar school and 2 years basic training with the British Army, he immigrated to Canada in 1956 seeking greater opportunities in life.

While living in Toronto, he met both his life-long friend, Ted Gilbert, and his beloved wife, Muriel, at the Piccadilly club, a club frequented by ex-pats. Madly in love, mom and dad soon got married and, after the birth of their son, John, the following year Dad moved his little family to the small town of Maple, ON and started to put down roots. Within a year, I was born; a fiery redhead like him. While living in Maple, he established his business, Diamond Drafting, and became involved in community sports (hockey and baseball), the Anglican church and Vaughan (masonic) Lodge. They made life-long friends with their wonderful neighbors who they have stayed in touch with for over 60 years.

Dad had a zest of life and lived life fully; travelling the world to see new places, enjoying the great outdoors (either at the cottage on Denna Lake with the Bradburn’s or camping with the Boodt’s), watching sports live or on TV (his favorite team were the Jays), reading the newspaper daily (and doing the cryptic puzzle), and entertaining family and friends in their homes. Mom and Dad were either making new friends wherever they went or including family and friends in their adventures.

In 1989, they moved west to BC to settle in the oceanside town of Sooke to start their newest adventure, Harbor Villa B&B. Soon they were establishing new roots in this funky little town by joining the legion, the Sooke gardening club, Mount Shepard Lodge, Holy Trinity church, and the Sunshine Hikers. Always marveling at the nature surrounding them, they felt like they were in a very special place although they also enjoyed their 13 winters in the desert with their friends In Indio, CA too.

Dad lost the love of his life, Muriel, after 56 years of marriage in 2014. He is predeceased by his 3 brothers, his 2 brothers-in-law and sister in-law’s. Dad was a kind, generous man who supported his family and others. He was adventurous and appeared to be fearless. If you knew him, he was also known for his English accent, his red beard, sometimes his outlandish clothes and, without a doubt, his quick sense of humor. He could aways make anyone laugh. He is fondly remembered by our family including his only grandson, nieces/nephews, and many great friends. We wish to thank his Sooke neighbors who watched out for him in his later years. Godspeed, Dad. “See you on the other side”.

There will a cremation and spreading of his ashes. Please donate to a charity of your choice if you wish.