John Pentick

Mr. John Louis Pentick, aged 81, passed away peacefully Sunday, February 6, 2022 after a brief stay at St. Joseph's Hospice.

John was born in the East End of Fort William on May 12, 1940. He grew up on McPherson Street and attended St. Peter's School before moving on to St. Patrick's High School with his younger sister Maryanne. After a brief time in B.C., John enrolled at Lakehead University, eventually graduating with a Bachelor's of Arts. John spent his career at Confederation College teaching English as a second language to new Canadians, Business Communications, and Technical Writing. He enjoyed interacting with young people - especially those that were new to Canada.

Always adept with the English language, John loved a good joke or pun. He was an engaged and knowledgeable conversationalist who could hold his own in any environment. Politically aware and curious, John wouldn't hesitate to jump right in and ask questions or express an opinion - no matter how controversial!

John had a passion for the outdoors and a great appreciation for nature that he passed on to his children. Fishing, hunting, canoeing, camping, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing all gave him great enjoyment. His later years were filled with travel, cycling trips, and of course exploring the Thunder Bay district in his piper cub float plane. Regular bridge games were a staple of Johns life, as were his daily promenades and he continued with both of these activities even as his illness progressed.

John is survived by his wife of 33 years, Olga Marykon, and her family; children, Julie Pentick and Stephen Pentick (Sarah McCullough); grandchildren, Alexandra (Teemu), Helena, Isabella, and Josef; and great grandchildren, Crawford and Flora. John is also survived by his former wife and mother of his children, Eleanor Pentick (Zaroski). He was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Teresa (Woit) Pentick and his sister Maryanne Pentick.

The family would like to thank John’s good friend, Michael Conway, who took John cross-country skiing as long as he was able and stayed in communication with him as he neared the end of his life.

We would also like to thank staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital and particularly the palliative care nurse, Robert Essex, and Dr. Migay, who helped us make the decision to admit John.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of John's life will be held this Spring, with interment in Sunset Memorial Gardens, where John will be laid to rest with his parents and sister. Should friends desire, donations made in John's memory to the Manor House Program at St. Joseph's Care Group or the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay would be appreciated.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Everest Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street at James.