John, from the Cree First Nation, was born on February 14, 1920, in Chapleau, Ontario. He later attended Wycliffe College, Toronto was awarded an L.Th. He was ordained to the Diaconate in 1945 and to the Priesthood the following year in the Diocese of Toronto for the Diocese of Saskatchewan.
He served as Missionary at Onion Lake, SK before moving to the Diocese of Moosonee in 1947 where he served as Missionary at Mattagami (where he also taught school) and Calstock. In 1963, John returned to the Diocese of Saskatchewan serving in the parishes of St James’, Kinistino, All Saints’, Lac la Ronge and St James’, Nipawin. John was made an Honorary Canon of both the Dioceses of Saskatchewan and Moosonee.
In October 1976, John came to the Diocese of New Westminster as the Parish Priest at St Peter, Vancouver (one of the predecessors to Holy Cross Church). His appointment was described as unconventional – the funding allowed for a shared ministry with the United Church and he was accommodated in a United Church manse on West 14th Street.
John, along with his wife, Jean, also worked as a missionary priest to the Native Community throughout the Diocese until 1986. Their work was characterized by a strong visitation programme, based on a centre in what became the Longhouse Council for Native Ministry.
John served as a Regional Dean of Vancouver Centre and after retirement was an Honorary Assistant at St Helen’s, Point Grey before moving to Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory in the Diocese of Ontario.John was predeceased by his wife Jean (2003) and daughter Judalon Jeffries (2001). John is survived by sons John Jr. of Ponoka, Alberta, Rod of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and Randy (Karen) of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, together with six grandchildren, one great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews.
John died peacefully on March 27, 2014, in Belleville, Ontario at 94 years of age.A Funeral Service was held at Christ Church, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory on Monday, March 31, 2014.
We extend our condolences to John’s family.Please remember our brother in your prayers and at the altar.