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John Schibli

February 24, 2003

SCHIBLI Ð John died in peace on Monday, February 24, 2003 in the presence of friends and family. He is survived by Ida, his loving wife of 58 years, along with sons Walter, Peter (Yalile), daughter Karen (Roy), grandchildren Tania (Duane), Davis, Albert, Brett, Tiersa, John and Jamie, as well as great-grandchildren Kayla, Alex, Cassidy, and Shaina. Sadly, John was predeceased by his eldest daughter Hedi (mother of Brett and Tiersa) in 1987. John was born in Busslingen, Switzerland on September 19, 1918. In 1937 he, along with parents and siblings immigrated to Canada and settled in Smithers, B.C. John worked briefly on the family farm, in the Smithers hospital and in underground mines throughout B.C. before settling on a career as a carpenter. He married Ida on April 10, 1944. Together they raised their family in Smithers, Kitimat and finally Victoria where they’ve lived since 1962. John took a very keen interest in the labour movement in his formative years and strived relentlessly for the good working men and women in the communities in which he lived and worked. He put his hand tools down in 1965 to become business agent of Local 1598 of the Carpenters’ Union. John’s dedication was greatly appreciated by the membership, and although considered a tough negotiator, he was generally respected by the "other side." His work with the Carpenters’ Union was followed by an appointment as staff rep. for the B.C. and Yukon Building Trades Council, and he also served as president of the Victoria Labour Council. After retiring in 1983, he served until recently on the EI Board of Referees. In his retirement years he enjoyed his beloved family, garden and the countless hours in the company of his youngest grandchildren John and Jamie. Our thanks to family Dr. Dave MacNaughton, the many nurses, specialists and all other care givers at both hospitals.

Prayers were offered at St. Patrick’s Church, 2060 Haultain on Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass was held at St. Patrick’s at 12:10 on February 28, 2003, followed by a reception at 2:30 at St. Patrick’s Hall adjacent to the church. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to Greater Victoria Hospital foundation or a charity of choice.



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