John Piazza passed away peacefully, at Broadmede Lodge, in Victoria, B.C. on Sunday, June 26t,h at the age 88. He was an Air Force Veteran of W.W.2.
He leaves behind his wife, Marjorie, his daughters, Cathi Howes (Don), Victoria, B.C.
Sharron Piazza (Bill Michael), Osoyoos,B.C., Joan Gibson (Steve), Beaverdell, B.C.,
Grandson Austin Anderson (Stephanie),Nova Scotia, Great-grandchildren Jonas, Eden and Arlo, a brother, Bert and two sisters Mele and Rena, and a number of nieces and nephews.
John had a career as a surveyor for the Ministry of Highways, which saw him survey the Western half of the Hope Princeton Highway and the Rock Creek Bridge. Later he returned to U.B.C. to earn his teaching degree.
John lived in Osoyoos for 55 years where he taught 100’s of students Math, Sciences and Industrial Arts, at the Jr. and High School level, as well as a number of other subjects and grades. For a number of years he also voluntarily taught English as a second language evening classes for New Canadians.
He was very active in the community, being a Regional Director of Area A (Osoyoos Rural Area) for 18 years.
John was one of the original members of The Blue Sage Riders, and was very instrumental in obtaining the land that is now Desert Park. For many years he was very active in the Osoyoos Elks, and spearheaded a number of their endeavours, both locally and province wide. John was always interested and involved in what was happening in Osoyoos and the surrounding area.
John lived for his family, his horses, and his community. He will be missed by all who loved and admired him.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Osoyoos at later this summer.