After a brief but determined fight, Juhan (John) succumbed to a rare form of thyroid cancer on January 30, 2017 at the age of 79 years. Born in Rakvere, Estonia, John fled to Sweden during WWII with his mother and uncle, and later immigrated to Canada in 1948, initially living in Vancouver and then Toronto. John graduated from the University of Toronto in Mining Engineering, and immediately started his career with the Noranda Group. Upon marrying his wife Maria, he and his family were transferred several times across Ontario, Saskatchewan and B.C., finally settling in Tsawwassen, B.C. in 1982.

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After achieving “Quarter Century Club” status with Noranda, John joined Canada Tungsten, and then culminated his career as President and COO of Wheaton River Minerals. After retiring, he remained as a director for several mining companies, but then launched a new 15 year career of travelling the world to far flung places. Predeceased by his father Juhan, his twin sons Juhan and Anthony, his uncle Karl, his mother Karin, and his stepfather Eerik, John will be forever cherished by his loving wife of 47 years, Maria; his daughters Kristina (Lee), Astrid, and Natalie (Jeremy); his sister Anne (Tõnu); his brother-in-law Fernando (Jen); his most favourite people Keegan, Kaelin, Greta, and Magnus, in addition to his special nieces and nephews. The family thanks the wonderful staff at Delta Hospital who gave John tremendous care towards the end of his fight. A celebration of John’s life was held at Delta Funeral Home, Ladner, BC on Friday, February 3, 2017. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory to the Delta Hospital Foundation. Though we may no longer hear the words in person, we will never forget your vast knowledge, sage advice, and many adventures off the beaten path.