John Edward Vogan

John will be missed by his family and friends and will be remembered for his generous spirit, his fun-loving humor, his devoted faith, and his love of music, sports, and gardening. John was the beloved husband of Madli for 60 years, a devoted father to Erika (Eugene) and Kyle (Jennifer), and a proud and loving grandpa of Tia, Evan, Jay, and Jaryn. He will be remembered fondly by his four siblings, Robert (Ruth), Carolyn, James, and Pamela (Richard), and by his many nieces, nephews and friends.

Born in Geneva, NY to Paul and Elizabeth (Fordon) Vogan, John spent his childhood years in Mooers, NY. He attended Mooers Central School, where his father was principal, and engaged actively in many sports, music, and extra-curricular clubs. During his graduating year, John was voted by his classmates to represent them at the state level as a recipient of the “Outstanding Citizen” award.

John graduated from Houghton College in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry). At Houghton, he played multiple sports, including basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, and volleyball. He also contributed his musical gifts, playing clarinet in the band, and showcased his artistic eye as a photographer for the student newspaper. One summer, John worked at an inn in Wellfleet, MA, where he later met his future wife, Madli, who was also a Houghton student. Cape Cod remained a cherished place for John and Madli throughout their many years together.

John dedicated much of his professional life to working in the pharmaceutical industry with Bristol Myers Squibb, which led him to relocate his young family from Syracuse, NY to Candiac, QC to manage a clinical supplies operation and subsequently oversee a newly established anti-cancer research facility. John is remembered for his strong work ethic and fair managerial style.

After retirement, John immersed himself in pursuing his many pastimes. He was an avid bowler and golfer, and the Patton’s Glen Golf Club in Kahnawake held a special place in his heart. John also loved traveling with Madli across Canada, New England, the Atlantic Coast, and northern Europe, building a treasure of memories along the way.

John was a man of faith who served for many years at The Peoples Church of Montreal. He will be remembered for his humble leadership, his generous spirit, and the countless ways he contributed to the life of the church through singing in the choir and men’s quartets, playing saxophone in worship, hosting and leading small group Bible studies, and serving as treasurer, deacon, elder, and chairman of the board.

At home, John was often seen washing his car, cutting his lawn, and tending to his garden, sharing its bountiful produce with friends and neighbors. John was generous with his time and resources, quietly offering a helping hand to those in need, always with a spirit of grace.

John was particularly known for his jokes and puns, and he composed his own limericks full of humor and wit. John was also very musical, playing several instruments skillfully, including saxophone, clarinet, and flute. In hospice care, the last song he played on his recorder was "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine", a reminder of his enduring faith.

John’s family would like to thank friends and family for their prayers and support over these past few months, including the wonderful CLSC workers who were involved with his care at home during his illness and the compassionate staff and volunteers at Maison Source Bleue who took over his care when he moved into a palliative home for the final weeks of his life.

The funeral is planned for Friday, November 22nd at 2pm, with visiting hours on Thursday from 7-9pm and from 1-2pm on Friday prior to the funeral. Light refreshments will be served following the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Welcome Hall Mission or to Maison Source Bleue.