1933 – 2021
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our husband, father and grandfather, John Hart of St. Albert, from complications related to the mixed vascular/Alzheimer’s dementia that so impacted his final years.
Born in Guildford, England, as the second youngest (and last surviving) of 14 siblings, his childhood was marred by the events of WWII and the early loss of his father and two teenaged siblings. Dad moved to Canada as a teen. He joined the Canadian military in 1951 at the age of seventeen, becoming one of eleven Hart siblings to serve in the British and Canadian militaries. He was removed from a ship bound for the Korean War when his true age was discovered, serving instead for six years with the Fort Garry Horse, Lord Strathcona Horse, and Canadian Provost Corps in Canada and with NATO forces in Europe.
In 1957, he joined the RCMP and proudly served in various postings throughout Canada (New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan and finally back in Alberta, his chosen home province), retiring in 1987 at the rank of Inspector.
He loved every opportunity to explore Canada. Dad was a kind-hearted and charming man who lived his life with integrity, dedication to responsibility, and a finely-honed sense of humour (no one appreciated a good practical joke more!). He earned the respect and affection of many, and could always be counted on to lend a helping hand to others. Road trips, camping, fishing, and playing cribbage and bridge were among his favourite pastimes. After retirement, his beautiful and ambitious gardens became legendary.
John is survived by his wife Sharon (nee Gough) of 61 years; three children, their spouses, and the seven treasured grandchildren who owned his heart: Shelley (Steve Hebb) of St. Albert and their children, Amanda, Gregory and Emily; Robert (Harumi) of Victoria, B.C. and their daughters, Keiko of Toronto and Chelsie (Tim) of Calgary; and David (Michelle) of St. Albert and their daughters, Taylor and Kyra; brothers-in-law, Doug Paige of B.C. and John Gough of Ontario; and several nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents, William and Margaret Hart (nee Matheson); siblings, Christine, Charles, Bertha “Bea”, Kenneth, Donald, Norman, James, Milton “Bill”, Margaret, Gordon, Harold, Joseph and Sheila.
In accordance with Dad’s wishes, there will be no service. Interment will take place at a later date in the RCMP cemetery at Depot.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Darryl LaBuick for his care and concern over many years; all of the dedicated, hardworking, wonderful staff and volunteers of Units 4 and 5 at the Youville Home in St. Albert, and the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta for the care and support received.
A very special, heartfelt thank you to all of his former cul-de-sac neighbours in St. Albert for the understanding, concern and many kindnesses shown to him over his final months at home; particularly as his illness progressed and he struggled so very hard to retain his independence.
An act of kindness in his name would be a fitting tribute and very much appreciated. We will love and miss him always.
Bha e mùirneach leotha
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
