Jorgen (John) Erik Larsen

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the news of John’s sudden passing on September 12, 2024 at the age of 87.

John was the beloved husband of Elsie (Laforce) for 61 years, loving father of Erik (Joanne) and Sherri (Matthew) and dear grandfather of Erikka (Conner), Kayla (Kyle), Lyndsay (Alexandre) and Robin (Justin).

John was born in Kalundborg, Denmark in 1936. He was predeceased by his father Poul, mother Emmy and sister Birthe Jehn (Peter). He leaves behind his nephew Soren who currently resides in Denmark with his wife Helen and children Simon and Sarah.

Following his education, John immigrated from Denmark to Vancouver, Canada in 1957. He immediately gained employment as a hardwood floor installer and then worked as a car detailer at a used car lot. He commenced telegraphy training, and upon graduation, began working as a telegraph operator for CP Rail for several years in various locations within British Columbia.

On a train trip from Vancouver to Buckingham, Quebec to visit a friend’s family, he met his sweetheart Elsie on a blind date and they commenced a long-distance relationship until they were married on October 19, 1963. They established a home in Creston, B.C. which was close to the train station in Yahk, B.C. where he was employed at the time. During this time John and Elsie had their two children Erik (1964) and Sherri (1968). Soon afterward, John found his career calling and commenced work as a Payroll Administrator at the Creston Valley Hospital.

After a few years in Creston, John, Elsie and their children relocated to Hawkesbury, Ontario which was closer to Elsie’s family in Buckingham. John continued his Payroll Administrator career at the Smith Hospital and then the General Hospital in Hawkesbury. John then worked at the Riverside Hospital in Ottawa and nursing homes in Almonte and Ottawa prior to his retirement.

Following his retirement, John kept busy as a Treasurer with the Retired Railway Employees Association and was an active member of the Cumberland Telegraph Operators’ Club. He and Elsie greatly enjoyed playing cribbage at the Nepean Sportsplex Seniors Club twice a week for many years where they each won championship trophies and bragging rights.

John was a man of immense wisdom and humour who cherished every moment he spent with his loved ones. He loved his wife, children and grandchildren dearly. He was a generous, thoughtful man who enjoyed chatting with everyone he met. He was loved immensely by his family and will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know him.

As per John’s wishes, a funeral service and interment will be held for immediate family members at a date to be determined.

Although John’s family is not requesting such, should you wish to recognize his passing, in lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or St Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church located in Inlet, Quebec.