John Charles Rij, at the age of 63, passed away peacefully with his loving wife, Cathy, and family by his side at Matthew's House Hospice, in Alliston, ON, on November 25, 2015.
John was born November 3, 1952 in Alliston, ON. He lived his entire life in the area. He farmed for many years outside of Everett. He drove truck for many years, and anyone that knew him, he was a jack of all trades.
Survived by his wife, Cathy. They were married for 43 years. They have 2 sons, Christopher John Rij, and Derek Richard Rij (Shannon). Survived by 4 grandchildren, Kyle, Dylan, Savannah, and Cole, whom loved their Papa dearly. John's 2 sisters, Mary Anne Sears (Barrie), and Cheryl (Karl) Haza of Everett. Uncle John will be sadly missed by his special nieces, Kerry, Carli (Brent), and Erin. He will be missed by other family and friends.
John was predeceased by both his parents, Nick and Donna Rij, and his older brother Rick Rewega.
A "Celebration of John's Life", will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2015 between 1 and 4 pm at his sister and brother in law, Cheryl and Karl Haza at 6801 Pine Plains Road, Everett, ON.
In lieu of flowers, PLEASE make donations to Matthew's House Hospice, 21 Kingsmere Court, Alliston, ON www.matthewshousehospice.ca. The family will also accept donations on behalf of Matthew's House Hospice on December 19, 2015.
John's family would like to extend the most heartfelt thank you to the staff (Barb and Meredith), and volunteers at Matthew's House Hospice. The last steps of John's journey was dignified and comforting, not only to him but his family. THANK YOU!!!!
Cheryl and Karl Haza
Posted on: Monday, November 30, 2015To my big brother and brother in law……Cheryl and Karl. You watched me grow and become an adult. You loved me unconditionally. You taught me to drive and protect myself. You were there for the births of my 2 girls, Carli and Erin. You were all about family! You were there when I needed you and then some!!! So thankful you were able to walk me down the aisle to Karl, and dance with me again. I will never forget your goofy smile, and you calling me “Kid”. You were all about mischief, and wheeling and dealing, but you were always there. May the angels that you walk with watch over us, and laugh the way we did!!!! Karl as much as he is loud, will never forget you, and how you greeted him as your brother in law. Coffee and sweets when we meet again!!!! Peacefully rest!!!! With all our love…your baby sister and brother in law!!!