January 5, 1944 - May 15, 2024
In loving memory ~
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, John Edward Renaud鈥攁ffectionately known as Bubba鈥攆ollowing a battle with mesothelioma.
John was born in Toronto to parents Teresa and Charles-脡douard. Following his mother's passing only five days after his birth, he spent his early years in a Catholic orphanage and with various relatives. Stability came when he reunited with his father and adoptive mother, Edith, at the age of ten. Though challenging, these formative years shaped him into the social and devoted man we cherished. At seventeen, after training with the Air Cadets and obtaining his pilot's license, he officially enlisted with the Royal Canadian Navy. This began a thirty-five-year career with the Armed Forces, that took him and his family across Canada. He retired as a Master Warrant Officer in Construction Engineering at 4 Wing Cold Lake before settling in the Comox Valley, where he built his 'castle' with his wife, Lorraine.
John's life was marked by adventure: from winning national sprinting competitions, to hitchhiking across the country and to Tijuana, living in Canada's most northern region, and extensive travel in the Asia Pacific as well as other parts of the world, his spirit of exploration knew no bounds. Yet, amidst these pursuits, his greatest adventure unfolded in the quiet moments of building and nurturing his family. His unwavering commitment was palpable in every facet of their lives. Whether coaching hockey to his son and grandson, attending every performance or game, or lending a helping hand with homework, John's presence was a constant source of love and support. Beyond his home, his influence resonated in the halls of the francophone school where his grandchildren attended and his daughter taught; his craftsmanship enduring as a testament to his dedication. Moreover, he wholeheartedly embraced his wife's family as his own, and played an active role in raising three of his grandchildren, fostering a sense of belonging and unity that enriched their lives immeasurably. Over the years, many extended family members have lived with John, finding support and a good laugh in his presence; creating cherished memories that will endure.
Defined by open-mindedness and a willingness to advocate against injustice, particularly in the military, John stood firm in his convictions. He proudly supported leaders like Tommy Douglas and championed Medicare, instilling values of receptivity and compassion in his children and grandchildren.
John wasn't only a pilar to his family, but a joyful light to his community, and per his neighbours, "a fixture of [his street]". For a short man, he leaves us with a giant-sized hole. John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Lorraine; children, Teresa, and Michael; and grand-children, Soleil, Isaiah, Jacob, Evan, and Oc茅anie. John is reunited in peace with his parents and birth mother, parents-in-law Berenice and Graham, and many cherished extended family members. We find joy in knowing that he is finally meeting his older brother in heaven and enjoying "animal parades" with his favourite furry and feathered friends: Chun-tsu, George, Delbert, and Pepsi.
We wish to extend our appreciation to Dr. Asmaa Abdulkader, the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Comox Valley Regional Hospital, as well as to our friends and chosen family for their care and support during John's final weeks.
In accordance with his wishes, no formal service will be held. Those wishing to honour John's memory may consider donating to the Canadian Public Health Association, while enjoying simple pleasures like camping, sharing a doughnut, or gathering around a bonfire with the people they love.