John Stephen Mitchell
Passed 12/01/2023
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Obituary For John Stephen Mitchell
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Stephen Mitchell, 67, of Brookside, Nova Scotia. He passed away peacefully December 1, 2023 while surrounded by family at Northwood Long Term Care. He was the son of the late John “Jack” and Ruth (Gregory) Mitchell.
John grew up in the north end of Halifax in a loving religious home on Lady Hammond Road with his parents and siblings along with his aunt and uncle, Pearl and Harry Gregory who he considered as second parents.
In 1974, at the age of 18 while in high school, he met the love of his life, Mary (Corkum). Together with their faith combined in God, their journey of life would take them through the most memorable adventure. At the age of 19 they married and built their home where they raised their three children. Their happiness and love for each other was everlasting and beautiful to witness.
After graduating from St. Pat’s High School, he followed in his fathers footsteps and was proud to become a 3rd generation railroader with Canadian National Railway. He worked with the mechanical department as a Carman just like his father, uncles and cousins alike. He was a leader in safety and taught first aid courses to fellow employees through St. John Ambulance. He was recognized for his efforts later in his career when he was the recipient of the President’s Award for Excellence for his involvement with the National Gypsum. He retired from the railway in February 2011 after working more than 36 years.
John’s gift for training dogs began when he got his first English Springer Spaniel at the age of 23 in 1979. During his adolescence, he was introduced to the English Springer Spaniels field trail game through his mentor and life long friend, the late Dr. David McCurdy of Halifax.
Dr. McCurdy saw great potential in him and really took him under his wing to teach him the art of training dogs to hunt birds. As the years passed, John became a professional dog breeder and trainer himself and had his own small business known as Flushing Wing Kennels. He always valued Dr. McCurdy’s patience, wisdom, friendship and ability to teach and felt blessed to have known the McCurdy family.
Over the years John travelled nationwide with his brothers and best friends Gregory and Dickie competing in field trials. In 1998, John won his first Canadian National Spaniel Championship in Edmonton, Alberta. In 2001, he won his 2nd National Championship in Merigomish, Nova Scotia. In 2022, he was nominated to be inducted into the American Bird Dog Hall of Fame in Tennessee. Many of John’s closest friends and colleagues would consider him to be an ambassador for their game.
John had very strong Christian roots and came from a family of faith who placed this at the forefront. He built a life for his family in Hatchett Lake where he was such an important and active member of his catholic parish.
John had a love for music and came from a musical background. He was gifted on the harmonica and acoustic guitar. He further taught his daughter to read and play music at a very young age. He played music and sang for the church for many years at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church.
John loved gatherings with family and friends and enjoyed playing games of 45’s, cribbage, washer toss, taking walks with his wife, long hikes with the dogs or relaxing evenings of classic rock on his acoustic.
He had a great appreciation for nature and life outdoors. He was a hockey, baseball, football and golf enthusiast. He was very involved with minor hockey and coached at competitive levels for both his sons.
John gave the gift of life through donating his blood to the Canadian Red Cross for the better part of his life in hopes that by giving back he could help someone else. He had a natural ability to help others and wholeheartedly cared.
John always put others before himself. He was someone you could confide in and depend on. His honesty, compassion and loyalty were some of his greatest attributes. His kindness and fun sense of humour will live on forever through his children, grandchildren and all who knew him. His love of life and family was inspirational and that will be the legacy he leaves behind for all to treasure.
He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mary; children Crista-Lee, John (Sarah), Stephen (Heidi); He was a proud “Doggy” to his grandchildren Kali, John “J.D.”, Julia, Manuel, Olivia, Cohen, Benjamin, Vera; sister Deborah (Kevin); sisters-in-law Sharon, Holly, Susan (Bertram), Audrey (Robert); brother-in-law Harold “Dickie” (Karen); aunt Pearl and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brothers Gregory and Michael; and uncle Harry.
Many thanks to the wonderful staff at Northwood Long Term Care, all to whom were so very kind, loving and caring.
Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass and reception will take place at Saint Stephen’s Catholic Church at 6032 Normandy Drive, Halifax on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00am and a private burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.
-Rest in peace Doggy
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Condolences
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12/17/2023
Dear Mary, so sorry to hear of John's passing. We left a card at your front door on Friday. Hope it did't blow away. We didn't realize the funeral was yesterday. Please call when you are able. Love Judy and Roy Baxter.
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12/16/2023
Thinking of you all ❤️ Carmen
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12/15/2023
Deepest condolences on the loss of John. Growing up I spent many enjoyable hours at the Mitchell household playing basement ball hockey and games of pitch and catch. The Mitchells were noteworthy as an example of family, faith and community. Every member of the family had an impact on me growing up in the Northend. John will be missed. We are thinking of and praying for your family at this difficult time. God bless. Greg and Linda Little
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12/15/2023
Dear Mary and Family, We wanted to send our heartfelt condolences to all of you. The world has lost a great soul and he will be missed. John brought great joy to our family with the additions of Reckless, Remington and Beau. We will forever be grateful to John, when we lost Reckless suddenly and were heartbroken he loaned us Sparky to fill the void until Remington was ready to join our family. This speaks volumes to man that John was. Sending our love! Ian and Andrea Newcombe
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12/14/2023
My father and I worked with and alongside all the Mitchell boys they didn't come any better thinking of you all Bruce O'Hearn
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12/14/2023
So sorry to hear of Johns passing my father and I both worked with and alongside all the Mitchel boys Rest In Peace thinking of you all Bruce O'Hearn
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12/14/2023
Mary- we send you love and sincere condolences. Though our paths crossed only once when you were visiting in Trenton, John's quiet and pleasant personality shone brightly. You have had a wonderful marriage and May all the memories you cherish comfort you and help you deal with carry on
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12/13/2023
It is with great sadness that we learned of John's passing. The Club de chien de chasse de Québec (Quebec spaniel Club) offers its sincere condolences to his family and his friends. He will be missed and not forgotten by our members. A donation was made in his memory to the Alzheimer's Society of Nova Scotia.
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12/13/2023
It is with great sadness that we learned of John's passing. We consider ourselves very lucky that our paths crossed and that we had the chance to meet John during our spaniel field trial activities. Other than his great qualities as a trainer and handler. What a gentleman and sportsman he was in our sport. What we will remember most about meeting John is his open smile and the camaraderie he exuded. To John's family. Our sincere condolences. Nicole Bournival and Michel Bourdeau Quebec
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12/13/2023
Dear Mary and Family We were saddened by the loss of such a loving and longtime friend, John and David grew up together in the northend and have been life long friends, We were honored to have John serve as Best Man at our wedding We have been fortunate enough to have known such a kind, loving and generous friend and will hold all our precious memories forever in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Love Cathy and Dave
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12/12/2023
So sorry to hear of Johns passing, I worked with him on the railway as well his father Jack.You could never find a better person than John. Above all he was the best dog trainer, the very best.
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12/12/2023
For over 40 years we have had the pleasure of having John and Mary as neighbours. A remarkable loving couple. I remember Runner, the first Springer and the hours John would spend training, being kind enough to teach me to control a dog by whistle commands. From skating on Loon Lake to a few rounds of golf, John always had a smile even when taking the puck away. John will be missed and Mary and family will always be loved by the Castles'
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12/12/2023
our condolences to you Mary and all the family.
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12/12/2023
Our heartfelt condolences on your family's loss. Terry, Sandra, Matthew and Jonathan Fields. ( we shared a room at the birth of our son Jonathan and your John) You are in our prayers.
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12/12/2023
I worked with John + Jack. Both excellent human beings! Many a laugh with John during his unique first aid instructions! A man in control. I hope you're in the woods now like our hero Frontiersman ,Simon Kenton! See you there soon enough! Love ya , man!
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12/12/2023
Dear Mary and Family: We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are are with you in these difficult days. John is now at peace and we know Mindy is sitting by him reminiscing on the great training she got from him. He was a wonderful man. Our sincere Condolences, John and Estelle
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12/12/2023
So sorry to hear about John. He was a lovely man and we enjoyed the time we spent with your family and the dogs. Dorothy Barrett
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12/11/2023
My heart felt condolences to Mary, Crista, Johnny, Stephen and family. My wonderful memories of uncle John include his passion for training/competing in the dog trials, his guitar & harmonica playing, and how he and the family always made me feel so warm and welcome when visiting. Rest in Peace uncle John. Bob (Bobby) Forgues
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12/10/2023
Aunt Mary, Stephen, Crista & Johnny.. my heart is broken. I have still have yet to find the exact words to express the passing of uncle John. He was one of a kind man, a man who I idolized.. a second father I would say. I remember growing up and every morning at 7am racing my sister Jillian to the door to be the first to say good morning & get his warming hug as he checked the pigeon coup. Weekly trips riding shotgun in his black Chevy to go check his bird traps in downtown Halifax because never he said no if I asked to tag along. I can still remember the excitement everytime he would have a new litter of puppies, so I could ride my bike over to his house & stair at them in the box.. counting down the days when he'd let me hold them! All our memories we have from our family PEI vacations.. I have so many memories I will hold close to my heart. I pray my daughter finds a love so genuine and pure as my uncle & aunts was.. uncle John was a man of great faith, my favourite bible verse is corinthians 16:14 - Do everything in love.. that is exactly what uncle John did. Until we meet again my goonie, love you forever & always. Angela, Isaiah, Carter, Scarlett & Mason Doiron
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12/10/2023
Dear Mary my beloved sister and Crista, John Jr. and Stephen. The lost of John can only be described as heart breaking. However we should take great comfort in knowing the love John had in his heart for Mary, his family and grandchildren. John was a very unique man making everyone feel like friend when it was the first time they met not even knowing who they were. John was a very very hard working man and loved the guys he worked with at CNR. He organized all the ball games between Coca-cola and CNR and all the guys from Coke loved him also. So many trips across Canada in the fall was just what we did. The many talks we had always went back to the love he had for Mary, Crista, Johnny and Stephen. John was so happy and proud of his family. His whole life was all about giving your all in whatever you did. John's success came with no surprise to anyone who knew him. His good friend Bruce Outhouse always told me that John was a natural with the dogs. When John was building his house at 19 years old, I was 14 years old. He taught me what a hammer and saw was. Mary I hope you know it was the best summer of my life. I remember how proud he was that he build you a new house in which you and him made your home. Mary you and John were a big part of my daughters Jill and Angela's life. You can say they lost their second dad but they have all those memories to be thankful for. Mary your strength and faith has been a big part of helping me through the last week without doubt. I take comfort in knowing he is in a much happier place. I want you and Crista, Johnny and Stephen to know I will always be there for you and your family without exception. I will always here John's voice reminding me to always do the right thing. I will have a big part of me gone in his passing but hundreds of texts and messages from all parts of Canada and USA. reminding me of how loved and respected he was as a person and his brother Greg will be training together and smiling down on us. John was simply the best. Dickie, Karen, Jill & Mike, Angela & Isaiah
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12/10/2023
Aunt Mary, Crista, Johnny, Stephen and family, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Uncle John was the best uncle ever; my memories are endless. The visits to his and Aunt Mary's house in Brookside to them visiting us in the valley. Rest in peace uncle John, you'll be missed more than you know ❤️ Jessica Forgues and Ryan
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12/10/2023
Dear Mary: My heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Last time, I seen you and John was (several years ago) while shopping at Walmart; and we had a great conversation...it was always such a pleasure to see the both of you. "God Bless you in your sorrow", sincerely, Gloria James
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12/10/2023
Dear Mary, Crista, Johnny, Stephen and family We are so heart broken to hear about the passing of our dear brother-in-law John. Such a wonderful kind man with a beautiful smile. We have so many fond memories of get togethers with John, Mary and children over the years. We shall miss him dearly. Rest in Peace John. Audrey (Pee-Wee] and Robert
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12/09/2023
Dear Crista-Lee and the Mitchell family. I know how much you loved your father. You spoke of his kindness and love, John's ability to laugh and live fully. Sending you love and healing during this time of grief. Sincerely, Janet, Canmore, Alberta💖🙏🏼
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12/09/2023
RIP John till we meet again
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12/09/2023
John You were the best man My Cousin could have married. He's no doubt in Heaven with Our Good Lord JESUS and all who loved Him. Mom is probably saying to John "You wouldn't stand a chance if I was younger. Rest In Peace John. Till We All meet again.......................xo
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12/09/2023
My sympathies and condolences to John's Family. I was very lucky to work with John for many years here in Halifax. A very good Friend and always a big support to his CN Mechanical Family. John will always be remembered for his Leadership and passion for Safety. Way too young and he will be missed by Family and many Friends. Rest in Peace.......Gary MacKay
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12/09/2023
I am so sorry to hear about John's passing. There will always be a special place for him in my heart. He always helped putting things in perspective when I was having difficulties in my life. I will never forget him. Condolences to Mary and family.
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12/09/2023
My dear Mary and family I am so sad to hear of John's passing. He was such a wonderful person. My prayers and hugs are sent your way. Lots of love Theresa Connors
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12/09/2023
Mary, and all of John's Family, we end our Deepest Condolences. John was a wonderful Neighbour, having first met him and Mary while building our houses in 1978 in Brookside. Our world has lost a wonderful man.
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12/09/2023
Sincere condolences 💐 to Mary and family John was a wonderful man and will truly be missed by all Our thoughts and 🙏 are with you at this very sad time. Ann and Cel Dicks
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12/09/2023
My condolences to your family. Marlyn Hazelden (Purdy)
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12/09/2023
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to all. God grant to all who mourn a sure confidence in your loving care that casting all their sorrow on you, they may know the consolation of your love. 🙏❤ Fly with the Angels John, Sending our love and prayers to all, Bob, Denise, Vince and Brittany
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12/09/2023
Our heartfelt condolences. John was a wonderful man and we know how much he will be missed. Lisa, Dennis and Logan Sutherland
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12/08/2023
Sending heartfelt condolences on the loss of John. Thinking of you all Jane and Jim Stewart
Tributes
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Susan Lanctot planted 2 trees in memory of John Stephen Mitchell . - 12/17/2023
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