John Andrew McEwen (Andy)
Feb 12, 1949 - Jan 20, 2014
With tremendous sadness, we announce Andy’s passing following a brief but hard fought battle with cancer. Andy was born in Smithers, B.C., to Bob and Nora McEwen. Andy acquired his love of cars and mechanical skills working at McEwen’s Autobody.
After graduating from high school in 1967, he entered SFU where he obtained his Bachelor of Economics and Commerce degree. Briefly, he held jobs with Centa Tax Services, Trans-Mountain Pipeline and Surrey Co-op before joining Canadian Fishing Company. He remained there for 33 years before his retirement in 2007.
In 1982, he married Sylvia (Matei), and together they raised two children, Shawn and Lindsey. When not working, Andy enjoyed camping, time at the Point Roberts cottage, travelling, and small home projects where he used his impressive mechanical, electrical, and technical skills.
Andy worked hard and played hard. He was always there to lend a hand and people will remember him for his stamina, determination to do the best, and overall joie de vivre.
He is survived by his wife Sylvia, son Shawn, daughter Lindsey, sisters Rosemary Maitland (Ken) and Susan Evans (David), brother-in-law Gordon Matei (Frances), nieces, nephews, and extended family in B.C., Alberta, and beyond.
A Celebration of Life will take place at First Memorial Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. Flowers gratefully declined; donations to McEwen Endowment Fund of the Bulkley Valley Community Foundation, Box 4584, Smithers, B.C., V0J 2N0, or charity of choice.