We Remember
SIMANDL, John Carley
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John Carley Simandl passed away with his family by his side on March 8, 2018.
Our dear John was diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer in October 2017. We had just returned from a family vacation to Maui, unaware of the devastating news that would crash through our door when we returned home.
He remained optimistic and determined from the start that he would beat this, but this disease is not caring or selective and took him from his family and friends much too soon. John was born in Windsor Ontario on April 21, 1954 and was the 2nd oldest of 5 children (Steve, Dave, Jim and Jane) to Jim Sr. and Anita. He became a Journeyman Carpenter in his 20’s. This led to various related positions within the construction trade.
John met Sue in April of 1981 and their lives were forever changed. They were meant to be. His sarcastic, dry humour and love of good music sealed the deal. He loved skiing, so of course Sue learned to ski as well. They have two beautiful daughters that meant the world to John; Elaine (Vijay) and Hillary (Ian). They left Ontario in 1993 when the girls were just 2 and 4 and ventured to their new forever home in Westbank, B.C. He had always had a curiosity about motorcycles and so with the simple phrase that Sue uttered to him in 2002 “well then, why not check it out” off he went to discover his passion. He loved everything to do with motorcycling, the lines of a great bike, the smell of the garage, – I mean “bike room” – fitted with their 3 bikes. He became an instructor at KDSC in 2007 to share his enthusiastic love of riding with others. When he worked in Kelowna, rather than ride the 20 minutes home directly, he would head up Westside Rd. to Vernon and back just to get some road time in. He loved motorcycling, so of course Sue learned to ride as well. As he advanced in his motorcycle training, his goal was to race on a track and get his “pucks” down. He did indeed accomplish that in September 2017 at a track in Oregon just before his diagnosis.
John and Sue retired together in February 2016 to enjoy their time in good health. Cancer had another agenda. We as a family will miss him more than we can express and are so appreciative of the many supportive, wonderful friends and family that have enriched our lives. He did not want a service or fuss and would simply remind friends and family to enjoy the time you have, try new things that you are drawn towards, and enjoy a cold Becks beer, Jim Beam Honey on ice, and a good cigar when you get together while cranking up the Mark Knopfler or Steely Dan tunes. We are forever grateful for the compassionate care provided by the staff at the Cancer Lodge, Dr. Peter Warren, and the exceptionally warm embrace provided by all at Hospice House. If you would be interested in donating in John’s honour, we would suggest the Central Okanagan Hospice House, or his charity of choice, Wounded Warriors of Canada.
We love you John and will miss you forever.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or to share a memory, please scroll down this page to the area called “share your condolences.”
I just sent my condolence through castanet but didnt include my name or email so here it is.
I am so saddened by the untimely passing of John. He was such a wonderful caring individual, and it was always a pleasure to see and talk with John. We both shared a love of everything motorcycle and motorcycling. He would enthusiastically help us with our demo days, or we would just talk about riding, especially if corners were involved, like Westside or Salmon river rds, California, or his new passion, the race track! From his V-Star all the way to his FZ10…what a ride! He put on more miles per year than anyone.
John was a class act on every level. We will miss him.
Words could not express my thoughts and sympathy for you at this time. Have thought of you so often lately as this journey has progressed. You are such a close family your loss is mountainous . Thinking of you Hugs
At the time when I first met John through our shared workplace, he quickly become a great friend. As his passion for motorcycles developed, he often called on me for minor mechanical assistance on projects that even the experienced riders would often leave for someone else to do. He was never afraid to try for himself. He was obsessed with riding, and we didn’t have enough opportunities to share rides.
He continued to call on me for advice and friendship even after I had moved away from Kelowna twice!
That he had an incredible wife like Sue to share in his motorcycling passion was the icing on the cake of an incredible life.
I am so sorry for the loss his family is experiencing and as well, to all that knew him.
John, I will miss you and all your calls and questions.
Dear Sue. I was so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I fondly recall his big smile, zest for life, and his companionship as a young man. John was a great friend and a key member of Team Simandl – who have been part of my “family” for at least 40 years. I will always remember him. Suzanne, Jaclyn & I extend our sincerest condolences to you and your daughters.
So very sorry to hear the news of John’s passing. I was very fortunate to work with John at Greystokes and later at Stutters. I lived vicariously through his motor bike stories and trips. John was a great guy and will be remembered fondly.
Dear Sue. I only knew John for a short while but as well as a friendship at work we shared the love of two wheels. John showed me the delights of the Okanagan Valley on our now not nearly enough Sunday ride outs. Also having a dry sense of humour I enjoyed his wit and take on life. No words will ever completely express how saddened I was to hear of his passing – but I hope you and the girls get strength from knowing he was such a great person who will be sadly missed by many
Dear Sue & family,
I’ve been away so have only just seen the notification of Johns passing. I knew John through his time at Stutters & can only say that he was always ready, willing & able to help in any way; he went to the n’th degree in all he did & his efforts were greatly appreciated. He was always quiet & didn’t waste too many words but he practically floated out of here to step into his next retirement chapter, he was so obviously excited & happy to be moving on that we couldn’t help but be happy for him. I’m so very very sorry for your loss, he’ll be missed by more than his family!