BELDAM John Edward. Feb. 3, 1921 ~ July 6, 2012. Born in Vancouver, John lived in Sardis until 1939 when he sailed for England to attend Wireless College then joined the British Merchant Navy as a Wireless Operator for the duration of the war. At the age of 20 the ship he was on was torpedoed in the North Sea where he was one of 11 who survived for 96 hours in an open lifeboat, resulting in frozen feet. After recovery he resumed his duties until post-war when he returned home to Chilliwack, moved to Abbotsford where he lived and worked until retirement. With wireless training he joined the R.A.C. where he enjoyed the network of friends he met and continued to be an active member until his illness. As a Rotarian, John was one of the early instigators of the Abbotsford Air Show. Having learned to play the saxophone while in the Chilliwack High School Band, music became an integral part of his life after the war, playing in dance bands, Chilliwack Senior Band and for years along with his wife, Mary, the Abbotsford Concert Band, including trips and marching into his 70's. Appreciating life in the outdoors meant many camping trips along with their stays on the lot at Skagit River Woods while his love of "ships and the sea" was apparent in both liner and freighter cruises annually. John was a photographer, knowledgeable local historian, teller of tales and sociable singer, kind and caring. Predeceased by his wife, Mary, his parents and brother Phillip he will be lovingly remembered by his sisters Beryl Thomey and Betty (Larry) Rogers, numerous nieces and nephews, friend and caregiver Norma and Doug who will miss sharing laughter with "the old man at the back of the bus." No service by request. Tributes and condolences may be left at:
www.hendersonsabbotsfordfunerals.com
Henderson's Funeral Home 604-854-5534