John Henry Lohues

John Lohues passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025 at the age of 87. He was born September 12, 1937 in Emmen, Holland as Henderikus Johannes, son of Johann Theodoor and Euphemia Maria. Predeceased by sisters Bertha, Lenie, Mini, Mieke and brothers Hank and Herman. Survived by his sisters Annie, Lies and brothers Ben, Jerry; his loving wife Rita of 61 years and his three children: Gary (Michelle), Maureen (Ian) and Anita (Brett). He adored his six grandchildren: Jeff (Amanda), Eric (Shae), Jenny (Nick), Melissa (Jackman), Kevin and Max and four great-grandchildren: Kolby, Mercer, Kayden and Kylie.

John was raised on the family farm. He was always interested in nature, plants, trees and animals as well as machines, mechanics, radios and cars. As a young boy, he once got in trouble for taking the family radio apart! After the Army, John decided to immigrate to Canada to farm with his two brothers. He married his sweetheart Rita and moved to Coaldale, Alberta. Later, they decided to move to Calgary. John planted lots of trees and a big garden. He had his own lawn maintenance company which kept him very busy. 

There were many trips to Holland. On one trip he came back with Dutch potatoes in his pocket to plant in his garden!

John’s family moved to the country. He raised various animals. Always had sheep and goats. John loved the goats so much he took his coffee break with them. Every April Fool’s Day Rita would tell him that the sheep got out! He started pruning trees professionally. In the fall, he made a huge pile of leaves for everyone to jump in. He often said, “It was a good idea to move to Alberta.” John had many dreams and inventions. He was always tinkering in the garage. He often said he was born in the wrong generation – was so amazed at all the modern technology.

Rita wanted to move to the city someday but he couldn’t leave the paradise they had created. In 2017 they sold the “farm” and moved into Calgary. They went square dancing, volunteered at the food bank and had lots of bike rides. A couple of years later he found out that he had Parkinson’s. Eventually this led to a move to long term care and senior living in Millrise where they could still be close to each other. One year ago he was diagnosed with bladder cancer. He said Rita was the best nurse!

John will be deeply missed! May he rest in peace.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Bernadette Catholic Church (7103 20a St SE) on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow at St. Bernadette Parish Hall. For those unable to attend in person, there will be a livestream link available below.

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