Obituary of William "John" Symons

SYMONS: William "John" Symons, passed away at his residence, on Sunday, July 29, 2018 at the age of 59 years. John was born on October 8, 1958 to John and Johanna Symons. Early in life, it was apparent that John was a boy who marched to the beat of his own drum. This philosophy on life stuck with John and he carried it out throughout his life. Growing up in Brandon, John considered his twin sister, Janine the goodie-two shoes of the family; his brother Bob his best friend and his sister Lorinda as the kid sister who always wanted to be a part of everything. As a young man, John successfully completed his Grade 12 G.E.D. John spent most of his working life in a highly successful career with the Canadian Armed Forces. He had various positions within the military. John served as a Rad Op from 1978-1979. In 1985, the military took John to Petawawa where he was with the 8th Canadian Hussars. From 1994 up until 2009, John was with the Artillery 1 RCHA where he remustered to Mat Tech. After remustering, he was transferred to the PPCLI in Edmonton and eventually to what would be his last posting, in CFB Shilo. John was honourably discharged in 2009. John was very proud to have served his country and received numerous awards throughout his career, and to have been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Although military life was important to John, he also enjoyed many other things. He had a great compassion for animals and rescued numerous cats and dogs throughout his life. John had a great devotion to improving the lives of veterans and stay at home mothers; writing numerous letters to the Canadian Government in support of both causes. One of John's greatest passions in life was restoring old vehicles with his brother, Bob. John was predeceased by his father John and mother Sjoukje Johanna. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter Nicole (Ross), twin sister Janine (Terry), brother Bob (Phyllis), sister Lorinda (Mike), grandchildren Jordynn, Leland and Roman, nieces Jennifer and Brena, nephews David and Jacob. John will also be dearly missed by all his friends, who's lives he touched by being an amazing friend. A Graveside Service for close friends and family was held at the Brandon Cemetery on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 with Padre Dave Wilson officiating. John's close friend Don Carter acted as urn bearer. Donations in memory of John may be made to the Brandon Humane Society, 2200-17th Street East, Brandon, MB, R7A 7M6 or to Wounded Warriors Canada, #1900 – 1500 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6G 2Z6.