January 29, 1956 - December 29, 2020
After putting the finishing touches on a nearly 30-year renovation of his home in Crescent Beach John "King of the Beach" Burrell signed out on his own terms at 3 pm on December 29, 2020.
John grew up in Burnaby B.C. and attended McPherson Park and Burnaby South High Schools. As a young man he spent time in Iran working for Dillingham Construction. It may be a coincidence but a lot of the problems that later developed in that country seemed to occur just after John's departure.
John settled down in Crescent Beach where he had spent his childhood summers. He was very active in the community as a volunteer firefighter and volunteer with the Crescent Beach Swimming Club. John spent countless hours patching together the old pool so that hundreds of children could enjoy their summers learning to swim.
The greatest love of John's life, besides Hilary was food. (Watching tv a close second) John loved everything about food, cooking shows, cookware, recipes, shopping, preparing, cooking and most of all eating. There was something special to hear John describe a cheese plate he lovingly prepared.
John could finish a crossword puzzle in record time and had an incredible ability to do math in his head. John was always quick to lend a hand and will be remembered by his family, neighbours, the kids on Gardiner Street and his many friends for his generosity, his quick wit and his zest for life.
He was also incredibly stubborn. John did things his way and on his timeline. John's epic battle with cancer is testament to his bravery and good nature.
John was predeceased by his parents Bill and Bev Burrell and is survived by his wife of 38 years, Hilary, sister Denise Pritchard and her husband Murray as well as niece's Meghan, Siobhan and Laura.
We would like to thank the many medical care providers from the Vancouver and Surrey Cancer clinics, the Ostomy clinic in New Westminster and the Fraser Health Community Nurses who cared for John during this arduous journey. In lieu of flowers please do a random act of kindness or a donation to a charity of your choice.
A celebration of John's life will be held at a future date when John is good and ready.