1937-2011 - John was with his family when he passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 following a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was a loving husband to his wife Marie (Ryan) for over 43 years and a caring father to John, Janet, and Michael, daughter-in-law Ainsley and granddaughter Caroline. John also leaves behind a large extended family including sister-in-law Loretta and 49 nieces and nephews who played a central role in his life and whom he loved dearly. John's career in social services and his dedicated volunteer work was well-suited to his character, defined by compassion, sacrifice, humility, and justice. He always put his family ahead of himself, and his genuine concern for the well being of others made him a wonderful part of many people’s lives. John was predeceased by his parents John (Jack) Higgins and Alice Casey, his brother Gilbert, sister Mary Margaret (Berard), and her son John. He leaves to mourn his nieces Marie, Kathleen, Maureen and their families (of California) and his nieces and nephews of the Edwards, Grant, Mulrooney, and Ryan families. John also cherished the relationships he enjoyed with his cousins and close circle of friends. Visitation will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home, 84 LeMarchant Road, on Thursday, June 9th and Friday June 10th from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at Mary Queen of Peace Church on Saturday, June 11th at 10 am. Interment to follow at Belvedere Cemetery. Flowers are graciously accepted or donations in his memory can be made to the Mary Queen of Peace Food Bank, 135 Torbay Road, St. John’s, NL, A1A 2G9. The family guest book can be signed online at www.cauls.ca
May he rest in peace