JOHN LOUIS MORAN

To know John was to love John, and for 88 years the world was blessed with his infectious joy of life and charismatic personality.
As an acclaimed “story teller” and gregarious humourist, his legacy will resonate in our hearts forever.
John Louis Moran passed away peacefully on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, surrounded by his loving family, at Riverside Health Care Facilities, Inc. in Fort Frances, Ont.
Johnny was born Oct. 7. 1924 in Roseisle, Man. and his family moved to Fort Frances when he was one year old. He lived in his home on Webster Avenue in the west end most of his life.
John was predeceased by his father, Frank and mother, Julia; his two brothers, Art and Norbert; and two step-sons, Bobby and Frank Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife, Eva, of 38 years, who is truly an amazing person and John was indeed lucky to have her there for him and he knew it!
Johnny also is survived by his three children, Brenda (Bob) Cox, Randal John (ReNae) Moran, Nancy Kantor and step-daughter Eloise Landry (Tim).
He has nine grandchildren, John Cox, Allison Cox, Meesh Moran, Mark Moran, Crystal Belcourt, Richelle Kantor, Kim House, Joanne McDonald, and Yvonne McLeod, and seven great-grandchildren, Katie Friday, Chase House, Jake House, Kennady McDonald, Travis Fors, Phoenix Boulet, and Arthur John Cox, all of whom agree he was the “Greatest” grampa ever!
The “Greatest” (as he is affectionately known by all) loved many sports and excelled in each one of them, receiving countless awards and trophies that verify his “Greatness!” Bowling was one of his favourite sports and he earned the distinction of “Bowler of the Year” many times.
As a pitcher for Mutz Bros.’ fastball team, many a batter shook in their shoes when stepping to the plate and upon looking to the mound, they viewed John’s intense stare as the ball went sailing by them into the catcher’s mitt!
He also was well-known in his senior years at the Legion for his successes at curling bonspiels and dart tournaments.
John also loved fishing, hunting, and camping. He and Eva spent several summers with many friends and family at Lake of Woods Provincial Park in Morson. Donny Lowey, Ernie Calder, and Johnny were the park’s “Three Musketeers.”
His fishing buddies also would come and check with him first to find out where the fish were or get shiners before heading out in their boats to ensure they would at least have a chance of getting their limits.
John was a pipefitter and Lead Hand in the Grinding Room at the time of his retirement in 1987. He also was a qualified steamfitter and plumber, and was employed in the local paper mill for more than 47 years.
John also gave much of his free time to friends and family, helping with their “water works” problems at their home.
He spent three years of his life proudly fighting for his country during the Second World War. He was attached to the British Army, serving with the R.A.S.C., and spent two years with them in Norway, where he helped the Norwegians regain their land that the Germans had occupied.
For his efforts, John was decorated and received a special beautifully-scrolled signed plaque from King Haakon VII for his help in the liberation of Norway.
He also has been a proud member of the local Royal Canadian Legion Br. #29 for 67-plus years!
Memorial services will be held Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Green Funeral Home in Fort Frances, with Pastor Jeff Plett officiating.
The Royal Canadian Legion Br. #29 Colour Party provided their tribute.
The honourary pallbearers will be Bob Cox, John Cox, Travis Fors, Mark Moran, Pete Hapka, and Doug Medhurst.
Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery in Thunder Bay, Ont. at a later date.
Should family and friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to either the Alzheimer’s Society or the charity of your choice c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
Rest in peace, Johnny Moran, the war hero, the story teller, the comedian, the “Greatest,” and our Grandpa. We love you and miss you.