Obituary of John Robert Carrothers

1931-2019 It is with immeasurable sadness that we announce John's passing at Victoria Hospital on May 22, in his 88th year. For 63 years, John was the caring and beloved husband of Doreen. The best dad ever to Suzanne (Rudy) Zimmer of Calgary, and Stuart (Paula) Carrothers of Burlington. Proud Pappy to Andrew and Liam Zimmer of Calgary and Regan and Aidan Carrothers of Burlington. Son of the late George and Edna and brother to the late Jean Schroeder and the late Charles Carrothers. Brother-in-law to Cathy (late Don) Burgess of London. Uncle to Diane (Paul) White of Calgary and Paul Burgess of London, Shaun (Mari) Burgess of London, Kevin (Adrienne) Burgess of Grimsby, Sarah McMichael of London and Emily (Matt) Sereda of London.Great Uncle to Jesse (Krista) White of Calgary and Rachel (Joel) Pippus of Calgary, Lyla and Adalyn Burgess of London, Evan and Brielle Burgess of Grimsby, Olivia and Sydney McMichael of London and Hazel, Beatrice, Finn and Otis Sereda of London. Great, great Uncle to Bennett and Rueben Pippus of Calgary. Cousin to Dorothy Henry, Mary Ellen Harrison, Amelia Vincent all of Strathroy and Danny Skinner of Appin. John was a generous and kind man who was always willing to give his time to help anyone in need. He never put himself first, even when feeling so unwell during the past six months. He had endless empathy and cared about others unconditionally. Throughout his life, he was an industrious fellow, who loved to tinker with machines and renovate houses. At the young age of 85, he could often be found at his 121 year old grandparents’ home "re-wiring the old place to bring it up to code", as he put it. John was a curious and creative person who loved to solve problems. He enjoyed building sailboats, one of which he sailed on Fanshawe Lake, and re-building Model A Ford cars. Right up to the end, John was an accomplished story teller with a quick wit and a priceless sense of humour. John developed a love of music that lasted throughout his lifetime. At age thirteen, he joined the London Police Boys Band as a tuba player. At fourteen years of age, he put a down payment on a new string bass. He was a member of numerous bands, namely The London Moose Boys Band, Technical School Concert Band, The Red Cap Band, Tomato Soup Band, and the Mocha Shrine Concert Band. During the era of live dance bands, he played string bass with Benny Goodfellow and the Londonaires, Johnny Brennan Orchestra and Ron Brown Orchestra to name only a few. John had a knack for science and math which led him to become a Master Electrician. Years later, he graduated with a B.A. Degree from Western University and he worked there for 33 years as the Works Project Supervisor. John was an honorary life member of the London Musicians’ Association, local 279. He was a member of Temple Lodge 597, and a member of the Mocha Shriners. John was a loving husband who rarely disagreed with his wife and when he did, he kept it to himself. He was a great dad who you could always rely on for a ride, a hug, encouragement and advice. Pappy adored his grandchildren and was always interested in what they were up to. He celebrated all aspects of their lives, no matter how great or small. John will be missed immensely but he will also be remembered affectionately. Cremation has taken place. Friends and family will be received at the EVANS FUNERAL HOME, 648 Hamilton Road, on May 30, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. Masonic service will be held at 6:30 pm. A family graveside service will be held at Dorchester Union Cemetery at 11:00am on May 31. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Canadian Blood Services and Shriner’s Hospitals for Children. Online condolences can be expressed at www.evansfh.ca Services: Visitation Thursday, May 30, 2019 Visitation Time 2-4 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. Visitation Location Evans Funeral Home Burial Date May31, 2019 Burial Location Dorchester Union Cemetery Requested Charity Shriner's Children's Hospital and Canadian Blood Services