JANZEN, John Stanley
April 08, 1941 - February 13, 2006
John Stanley Janzen, died peacefully at home on February 13, 2006 with JoAnne, his wife of 43 years, at his side. John was born April 8, 1941, in a Mennonite village in the Ukraine. The family fled persecution, and he arrived in Canada with his parents and siblings in 1948 as refugees.
John married his high school sweetheart JoAnne (Goerzen) in 1962, and together they seized very opportunity available. John studied and worked hard, and spent his 33 year career as an educator working for the Vancouver School Board. Twenty-five years were given as a principal of elementary schools throughout Vancouver.
John was determined, dedicated, and committed to whatever task he took on: his family, his church, his career, and his love for the Lord. John also knew how to relax - his infamous garden and yard, his passion for camping throughout North America in his fifth wheel and traveling throughout Europe and Asia with his best friend JoAnne at his side. Visiting with friends and playing cards (bridge preferably) filled his spare time.
John will be remembered by his children and grandchildren as a passionate, strong, loving man, always with a cup of coffee in hand.
John is mourned by JoAnne, daughter Janine Maclean and her three sons Kieran, Conor, and Rory, son Andrew Janzen and his wife Charlene, and children Alex and Taylor, as well as many extended family members and friends all over the world.
John leaves a legacy of helping others, goodwill, and thinking the best of each person that he met or deal with. John his time to numerous charitable endeavors, in particular his church, and volunteering in his retirement with MCC (Mennonite Central Committee). John's legacy will live on, even as John has gone to meet his Heavenly Father.
John's life will be honoured in a memorial service 10:30 am Friday February 17, 2006, at South Langley Mennonite Brethren Church (20098 22 Avenue, Langley, 604-530-2646). Cut flowers gratefully declined, but potted tulips will be cheerfully accepted so that they can be planted and enjoyed for years to come. Donations will be accepted for MCC.