John Wayborne Manuel was born on January 2, 1936 in Dartmouth,NS.
John passed away with one of his daughters and a granddaughter beside him, sharing stories and laughter for him to enjoy as he peacefully left us. We know that there were many also wishing that they could have been there too.
He was blessed to have the care of the amazing staff in the Emergency Dept, and also in the 200 Unit of Hants Community Hospital. With the respect and dignity of Dr. C Smith, John left us here, to take that final journey.
His life with us was marked with much laughter, steadfast love and unique stories for us to celebrate.
John enjoyed the challenge of something new. His intelligence and his humour went hand in hand and when one door closed, he was excited for the next open door.
As a young man, he worked as an electrician at the Shipyard in HFX wiring planes.
From there he shifted into other capacities such as managing the Kmart Auto Centre and also a job at the Nova Scotia Hospital.
Although each of those were unique in their challenges; none were as great as his last job as a bus driver/janitor for the schools in West Hants. That was not just a job, it was a calling.
John was just what the children needed. He gave each child the knowledge that they were unique, and cared for as he remembered each of their names; he held those names close to his heart which created a special bond with them all. His laughter and his kindness towards each and every one of them, enabled them to start and end their day on a good and lively note. Those who saw him during the school day hours, couldn’t wait for him to make a funny face at them or say something funny and unique- children were drawn to him because he always knew how to show love in a smile.
Aside from making his work places fun and enjoyable; John also knew how to have fun competing. He loved the excitement of racing and had himself quite a time driving stock cars. He also became a Pit Steward at Seabreeze Raceway for some time. When he would tell stories of his time in racing, he would make you feel as if you were there; it would either be for a laugh or to get your own heart racing.
He was also in a dart league and had a lot of fun with his teammates. There are many stories of his antics around the dart board that can be told which would ease the sadness of his passing.
As entertaining as he was with his jokes, he loved to play his harmonica and the guitar. His grandchildren loved it and some carry on that amazing musical legacy. Music and songs to soothe and bring joy. He loved it all.
John was predeceased by his parents - Charles & Helena (nee Isenor) and brothers - Carl, Lawrence, Milton (Terry), Kenneth and Ronald (Ronnie). Also by sister, Gladys, in infancy.
A precious grandchild, Robin, will also be awaiting his arrival in Heaven
He is survived by sisters - Glenys (Naugle), Helen (Douglas) and Elizabeth (Skerry).
The legacy of love that John left behind can be found in his beautiful daughters; Michelle (Phil Bishop)in Alberta; Elizabeth (Alan Miner) in Falmouth; Judy (Nelson Sisson) in Yukon.
As the generations continue, there were five who had the honour of knowing him and calling him Papa. These five enjoyed his humour and the giggles they knew were coming, were a part of what they looked forward to the most when his love walked in the door. His grandchildren honour that legacy by the tears that they have shed from his passing - Donna Dowe, Thane and James Macumber and Lonna and Taylor Dearman
Also ever so precious to him were his great-grandchildren; David, Madison, Noah, Leland, Tucker, Nova and Aiden.
Love, smiles and an eagerness to see him again- that’s what he brought forth to so very many who met / knew him.
For now, we’ll have to be content in knowing he is bringing laughter somewhere in Heaven.
There will be no service or funeral at this time, but a Celebration of Life will be done at a later date.