HOGLUND, John Eric
January 24, 1921 - December 9, 2016
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Eric Hoglund of Kamloops, BC on December 9, 2016 at the age of 95. Dad's journey has been remarkable and impressionable. Born January 24, 1921 in Woodnorth MB, the eldest of five children. He left home at 15, picking up odd jobs, including working for CNR, before joining the army in November 1941. Dad served in the 22nd Provost Company, with postings in England, arriving Normandy, France in the D-day landings, Belgium and Netherlands during the nations liberation. His nick name was "Speedy" for he was always, peddle to the metal on his motorcycle. Upon returning to Canada in 1945 after WWII Dad met the love of his life, Grace Amy Hill. They married November 2, 1945 and soon after moved out to Surrey, BC where they started their family and lived in the Clayton Hill area. As a war vet, Dad became a member of the Cloverdale Legion, Branch #6 and was a member for 61 years. His sense of humour and wit knew no bounds, making many friends. John worked for CNR, Fraser Mills Sawmill in New Westminster and William Clark & Sons Ford in Cloverdale. He had a successful career as a car salesman and was recognized by Ford Canada on several occasions. After 23 years of selling cars and managing at the dealership Dad retired, and in 1982 John & Grace moved to Kamloops.
They enjoyed their life together raising their 4 children, and watching them start families of their own. The 6 grandchildren & 5 great grandchildren held a very special place in his heart. Family camping & fishing trips were part of Dad`s life well into his 70`s. Dad & Mom enjoyed many years as snowbirds heading to Arizona. Dad loved Arizona, and he and Mom met many long time friends, who they would play cards with and traveled extensively. Dad suffered from glaucoma for several years before it took his sight in 1997 and Mom had been his eyes & guide ever since. She was a devoted companion to her husband and best friend.
He is predeceased by his parents Eric & Edith Hoglund, brothers Ronnie Hoglund, Bill Larson and granddaughter Lisa Hoglund. John is survived by wife Grace of 71 years, children Dwight (Linda) Hoglund, Eric (Judy) Hoglund, Brenda (nee Hoglund) French, Dairel (Jody) Hoglund, sisters Audrey Harburn, Dorothy (Bill) Griffin, 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Gabra, nurse Jen and the staff on 7 North at RIH, and the staff at Gemstone, especially the crew in the Copper ward, and those that were there in his final hours. Service to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Canadian Cancer Society BC & Yukon, #214 - 141 Victoria St, Kamloops, BC, V2C 1Z5 in memory of John Hoglund would be appreciated. Condolences may be emailed to the family from: www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com