Denis Valberg

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. John Valberg at home, on Sunday, July 21, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Churchbridge, Saskatchewan, son of the late John and Rose Valberg and brother of the late Dr. Leslie Valberg (Barbara).

Survived by his best friend and wife of 57 years, Betty Valberg (Workman) and his three caring daughters, Kim, Diane (John Groulx) and Michelle (Scott MacLennan) and 4 grandchildren, David Munro, Kaitlyn Meilleur (Tyler), Jillian Groulx, Benjamin MacLennan and great grandchildren, Adam and Matthew Meilleur. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graduate of Queen's University, MDCM, in 1957. John completed his Masters Degree in Medicine at Queens in 1963 and FRCSC in 1965. Following post-graduate training at Queen's and Vanderbilt University, he practiced in the specialty of Ophthalmology in Ottawa until 2000. With his great love of teaching and eye surgery, he was also Assistant Professor Surgery at the Civic Campus, Ottawa University.

He was a Past President and Life Member of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society and Past President and Life Member of Academy of Medicine, Ottawa. In the latter part of his career, John volunteered on the CNIB Mobile Eye Van providing eye care to many communities in Northern Ontario.

With Betty, yearly birding trips took them to 7 continents. "Poko" was a proud family man who enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren ardently teaching them to ski, golf and swim.

John was a member of the Royal Ottawa Golf Club for over 45 years where he enjoyed playing golf and bridge.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, caregivers and the Canadian Blood Services who all provided amazing care over the years.

Memorial Visitation will be held at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Road, Nepean (between Bayshore Dr. and Baseline Rd.) on Wednesday, July 24th from 2:00 - 4:00 & 7:00 - 9:00 pm. A Memorial Service will be held at Parkdale United Church, 429 Parkdale Ave., on Thursday, July 25th at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ottawa Hospital Foundation, General Campus Leukemia Clinic or the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation would be greatly appreciate