John Harold Ryser

It is with heavy, but proud, hearts that we announce the passing of John Ryser after a long battle with cancer. For so many people in the community, he was a legendary potato farmer. In fact, John delivered seed potatoes to Art Knapps for 50 years. John started his first farm in Moore’s Meadow in the 1950's and grew potatoes until the very end on his farm near Stoner. Over time, John grew many varieties, such as Kennebec, Chieftain, Sangre, Norland, Yukon Gold, Caribe, Sieglinde, and different types of Russets. Over time, his hard work paid off. John was very proud to have won the potato section of the Provincial Seed Fair in Fort St. John for 13 years in a row. His favourite potato and grand champion of the seed fair was the Nooksack.

John was very active in the agricultural community. He was one of the founding members of the Prince George Farmer's Market. He also served on the region’s first Farmer’s Institute. From there, he became active in the Cattlemen’s Association and the Old Time Fiddlers. You could frequently see him helping out at dances and he even sponsored an award for young fiddlers. John was also a patron of the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation.

Over the years, John delivered potatoes and vegetables to the Buffalo Brewing Company, Cimo’s, Husky Restaurant, Crossroads, The Twisted Cork, Northern Hardware, Williams Northwest, and, of course, the Legendary John’s Spud Truck.

John is survived by his loving companion Margaret Ketter; brothers Wilhelm Ryser, George Ryser (Debbie) and Dan Ryser and numerous nephews, nieces, other relatives, and friends. John was predeceased by his mother and father (John and Margaret Ryser), and brothers Ernie, Thomas, Frank, and Werner.

A Funeral will be held on Tuesday, December 20th at 11 am at Assman’s Funeral Chapel. A future Celebration of Life will also be held when we have warmer potato planting weather!