John Earl Bannerman

John was born in Cumberland, BC in 1914, and passed away peacefully in Comox, BC on Sunday, May 6, 2018 at the age of 103 years. John was predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Martha Bannerman, his brother Leland Bannerman, his wife Alice Bannerman, and his son Ronald Bannerman. John will be lovingly remembered by his daughter-in-law, Cindy Bannerman; grandchildren Kimberley Bannerman Pigott (Shawn) and Michael Bannerman (Trisha); great-grandchildren Zoe Pigott, Linus Pigott, Lauren Brindisi, and Nicole Brindisi, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

John graduated from high school in 1932 and worked in the coal mines before moving into a career in retail. He drummed in an orchestra with his three cousins, and they performed during the opening celebration of the Native Sons Hall. John was also an avid athlete, who played basketball, baseball, and soccer, and ran competitively. He married Alice Brown in 1941, and shortly after, he was stationed in Debert, NS with the Canadian Army during WWII. He and Alice lived in Nova Scotia for 2 years before returning home to Cumberland at the end of the war.

He was an active member of the Kinsmen and served as director of Cumberland United Church. In 1949, he and his business partner Clifford Gardiner began John-Cliff Dry Goods, and they ran the store until 1969, when John retired. After retirement, John and Alice took trips to Europe, Great Britain, Hawaii, and Australia. They also enjoyed camping and travelled by trailer across Canada.

In his late 90s, John moved to Casa Loma in Courtenay, then to 'The Views'. The family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff of Casa Loma, The Views, St. Joseph's Hospital, and to Dr. Susan Hunter. Their compassion and consideration enabled John to enjoy his final years. He retained his good humour, generous personality, sharp memory, and cheerfulness until the close of his long and happy life, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held at the Cumberland United Church on Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. with a reception to follow at the Cumberland OAP Hall. Memorial donations in John’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.