Tribute

John Russell Vernon Hammond, 46, passed away on November 22, 2022, in a tragic house fire in Cowichan Bay, British Columbia.

John was born to Hugh and Joan-Marie (Bawden) Hammond in Prince George. He came into this world two months premature, and mother and baby were transported by air ambulance to Vancouver shortly following his birth. His fighting spirit and determination first showed itself during this time, and he grew into an athletic and active boy, with a particular talent for soccer.

At the age of two, John’s family moved to Vancouver Island, where John would spend the majority of his life. After his parents’ divorce in 1981, he and his brother Michael would spend their summers in Saskatchewan, but regardless of where life took him, John would always return to the Island, the place where his heart belonged.

John graduated from Ladysmith Secondary School in 1994, and pursued a career as a contractor, with a particular talent for woodworking. He had a well-earned reputation for high-quality work, and on several occasions provided general contracting services for family members in Ontario.

In 2003, John crossed paths with Marianna, a young woman living in Shawnigan Lake. Though their relationship ultimately didn’t work out, they were blessed with a son, Kalan, and were best friends for years thereafter.

Despite the various struggles John had in life, he was known throughout as a caring person who you could always count on for help. He will be remembered for his big heart, his generous spirit, and his unwavering loyalty.

John was predeceased by his father Hugh and his mother Joan-Marie. He is survived by his brother Michael (Lixin), his son Kalan, his son’s mother Marianna, and his niece Stephanie, with extended family concentrated in Saskatchewan and Ontario.

A memorial service will be held at H.W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre in Duncan, on February 11th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Warmland House Shelter (cmhacowichanvalley.com/warmland_house_shelter) in John’s memory.