October 23, 1931 - September 9, 2023
In loving memory ~
John Steve Gomerich passed away on Saturday, September 9, 2023, (91 years old). He is predeceased by his loving wife, Norma, and his sister Rose and brother, Steve. He is survived by his beloved sisters Mary and Claire and his youngest brother, Buddy. John is also survived by his two daughters, Darlene Pierce (Bryan) and Diane Brandback (Dale), his grandchildren Tyler, Emma, Jordan (Toni), and Deven (Scott) and his great-grandchildren, Kaylie, Weston, Blake, Beau and Brady.
Dad grew up in South Wellington. He lost both of his parents at a very young age, quit school, and was hired at the Nanaimo Bakery. Dad told stories of losing his Band-Aid while baking, burning the pies and accidentally dropping his wrench into some cake batter. After leaving the bakery, or being asked to leave we are not sure, he was hired as a deckhand on a seine boat by the name of the Alaska Queen. Dad fished salmon and halibut and travelled all the way to the Bering Sea. This is where the Alaska Queen capsized on a stormy night and the crew had to evacuate into small life rafts while they waited for help. He then worked on the Alaska Queen II and the Chelsea Lake.
Dad was the hardest worker we have ever known. He could outwork most younger men and he could fix anything. One of his passions was chopping firewood, working on machinery, and walking at the farm. When his body became too tired to do these things, it was a sad day for him. He rarely complained and when he told us that he was in pain and needed to go to the hospital, we knew that something was seriously wrong.
Dad could be very stubborn, and it was his way or the highway. My sister and I do not like to admit that we may have inherited some of these traits...
Rest in peace, Dad. You taught us to always work hard, never quit and to be humble.
My sister and I would like to thank the doctors and staff at N.R.G.H, the homecare workers and especially Crystaline who was there with Dad when he passed (you are truly an angel). We would also like to thank Reg, Robin, Vicky, and Don for checking on Dad and looking out for him.
A private family service will be held in Dad's honour. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation.