At the age of 86, John was walked peacefully and lovingly home by his family. For sixty four years, John was the beloved husband of Betty Campbell. He was the son of the late John and Margaret Campbell and brother to Jim Campbell. He will be held lovingly in the hearts of his children; Laurie Vonk (Campbell) and Andy Campbell, as well as their spouses Peter Vonk and Carsa Campbell. He will be cherished and live on in his grandchildren Maryn Vonk, Blake Campbell, Rhianna Vonk and Rachel Campbell. The life of a person can be measured in the values which were upheld and the examples which were set. John strove to create a better life for his family even when his children were only a twinkle in his eye. John hailed from Glasgow Scotland where he married his Lassie at the age of twenty one. With an intrepid spirit, the young couple boarded a ship one week later and embarked for a new life in Canada. John was enamoured with this country which he felt provided him the opportunity to forge his own destiny. As a self made man, his exceptional work ethic was instrumental in him feeling fulfilled and successful in his career. Upon arriving in Montreal, John worked for Shell and it was there that the young couple started their family. Then their journey took them to Burlington where John took courses and eventually got a job with the Ministry of Labour. Ultimately John and Betty settled in Guelph. As the Director of Environmental Health and Safety at the University of Guelph, he was known for his integrity and commitment to his profession. It was a source of pride for John that McMaster University sought him out in retirement as a consultant because his expertise was valued. Truly though it was the simple pleasures that defined John’s life. As members of the Cutten Club, Betty and John became an avid golfing couple. Their love of the game resulted in travelling adventures and eventually yearly trips to Florida as Snow Birds. It should be noted that he had two holes in one to celebrate! More importantly, it was time spent with family that enriched his life. Playing euchre with his folks, going to his son and grandson’s hockey games, supporting any event his grandchildren took part in, watching Monty Python with his daughter, cleaning the pool so the kids could frolic in it, slowly walking the beach to help find the perfect shell, having a rye and coke on the deck of the JOYnt..the list was long of the things that brought him happiness. Ultimately, John demonstrated devotion and loyalty when he cared perfectly for his dear wife after she had a debilitating stroke. The true love that shone through his acts of service for many years was inspiring to behold. There will be no visitation or memorial service, as the family will be honouring John’s memory in a personal way. To honour John’s life and in lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for any donations to Wellington Terrace in Fergus/Elora. There are no words to describe the gratitude the family has for the compassionate Staff at the Terrace and Dr. Stickney. From the moment they entered WT five years ago until the moment they passed, John and Betty were part of their family and were surrounded with such tenderness and love by the incredible caregivers on Oak Glen. If you have an opportunity to thank a healthcare professional for their service in your community, please do so in memory of John.
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