Born July 23, 1940
Died January 22, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of husband, father and grandfather John. Born in Thessalon and growing up in Bruce Mines/Hornepayne/South Porcupine, John was a faithful husband to Kathy for almost 56 years. As he would always say, “I promised her at the altar I would never leave.” He worked, in the face of terminal lung disease, to be here for her as long as he could.
Both of John’s parents (Myrtle and Jim Gallop) were teachers in the North, most notably in South Porcupine and Hornepayne. John followed in their footsteps, starting his teaching career in Spanish and retiring as principal of S.F. Howe Elementary in the Sault.
John was a proponent of small, rural schools. He was a vice principal for many years at Mountainview in Goulais River and spent much of his principalship in Searchmont fighting to keep the doors open. When the accommodation review announcement went out for Thessalon Public School, he urged daughter Angie to “get in there” to help townsfolk have a proper say in the future of their school.
John was an avid hockey player, enjoying games with the “Last Chance” hockey club into his 70s. He was also an outdoorsman going on fishing and hunting expeditions, most often with his buddy Paul Rowe. He enjoyed golfing and lunching with his fellow retired principals; and shared poignant insights and laughs with his Thessalon book club.
John is predeceased by his parents Myrtle (Humphries) and Jim, sister Vivian and brother-in-law Ed Mazur.
He leaves behind Kathy, Angie, son-in-law Gordon Graham and grandchildren Cassidy and Lily.
The family would like to thank our local healthcare workers, who, time and time again, showed grace under pressure. John was continually amazed at how much care he received from our healthcare system.
We’d also like to thank Shanelle Smith, a guide in difficult times, and Malcolm and Maribeth Smith, for their help and encouragement. Also, Amy Shoust, a wonderful caregiver and nursing friend to Kathy. And to Brooke Showan at Beggs Funeral home, so kind and professional during our difficult time. There are so many more people to thank. Please forgive us for not mentioning you by name and know we appreciate you.
Service will take place Sat. Feb 24th, 11 am at Zion United Church, 224 Main St., Thessalon. Sandwiches and fellowship will follow.
Donations in John’s name to the North Shore Health Network, Thessalon site or Thessalon Pastoral Charge would be appreciated.