John Cecil Oates
November 21, 1951 to May 12, 2021
Obituary
John passed away suddenly at the age of 69. Predeceased by his sister Yvonne Davis, brother Russell Oates, baby sister Dianne Oates, special aunt Ruby Russell, and brother-in-law Bob Simms. Those left to mourn are his wife Karen Goodnough, son Conrad Warr, sister Carol Simms, brother-in law Elmer Davis, and sister-in-law Elaine Oates, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and numerous friends.
John was a long-standing employee of the College of the North Atlantic (CNA), starting his career there as an instructor. He assumed several leadership positions during his time at CNA, finishing his career as a lead administrator for several campuses. His professional and volunteer work touched countless people locally, nationally, and internationally, especially though his involvement with groups and organizations such as the Anna Templeton Centre, the Public Service Credit Union, Skills Canada, and World Skills. His commitment to students and youth was evidenced in being the co-founder of Together by Design, taking students to New Orleans for over a decade to help rebuild neighbourhoods after Hurricane Katrina.
John was known for his kindness, “dry” sense of humour, and gentle demeanor. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him. He was “the best of us.”
Cremation has taken place at Carnell’s Funeral Home. A celebration of his life will occur later. In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to the ALS society of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, or the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.carnells.com.
Sending deepest condolences to Karen and all of John’s loved ones.
It was a great privilege and honour to work with John as WorldSkills International’s Treasurer..
It was always abundantly clear that John was a man of the utmost integrity, wisdom, kindness, warmth, and the passion for the good that was possible by promoting skills training for the futures of all.
When he opened his mouth – I always listened intently.
He will be sorely missed.
Rest in peace John – you are amongst the Great Ones.
My deepest condolences Karen and Conrad. A true gem of a man. He is terribly missed by a lot of people. Whenever I remember John, all I see is that great big grin/smile. I will miss him. God Speed!!
I I first met John when he joined the Academic dept. at what was then the College of Trades and Technology. We became instant friends, not surprising if exposed to John’s self- effacing, yet confident manner and his wry, dry humor. Mindful of staying fit, he often joined me in a lunch hour jog around Pippy park. It was soon obvious that John possessed attributes far beyond teaching basic science .A sad loss indeed..
It is with a heavy heart I am writing these words about John. A man of principle, honour and compassion. John was one of those people you admired and respected. The love and respect John and Karen had for each other was known by all. John was admired my most and will be missed tremendously. I know Karen and Conrad will get comfort knowing John was loved by all and he truly was a special soul.
Dear Karen and family,
on behalf of WorldSkills Poland I want to express our big sadness of the sudden loss of John. He was a great “WorldSkiller”. Please accept the deepest condolences of WorldSkills Poland.
Dear mourning Family,
With deep sadness we here about John’s passing.
Our sincerest condolences go to Karen, and to John’s family & friends. Festo and the global Festo WorldSkillers enjoyed the moments with John. We will remember his dedication to youth and the WorldSkills Movement.
Team FESTO – Global Partner
Karen and family. I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a role model, mentor and friend, a kind and gentle man. With your lifetime of memories, may he always be just a thought away.
Sheldon Brown
Dear Karen,
Please accept our deepest condolences from Belarus. The world has lost a real professional, a passionate educator and a good person.
Dear Karen,
Our deep condolences to you and your family. John was warm, amicable and he was a man of great integrity. We appreciate his willingness to help and great guidance given whenever we seek for his advice. It’s been a great pleasure knowing John and we trust that his noble spirit will continue in this world with his loved ones remembering him.
It’s taken a week to be able to put our sorrow aside for a moment and express our condolences and sadness at the passing of our dearest friend. Wayne met John at CNA in the late ‘70’s and they immediately became friends. As the years passed, both Wayne and I, and John and Karen shared a great friendship and a fun golf 4-some. We will miss him dearly. We will move on….because we have to. We keep each of you, Karen and Conrad, close in our hearts and think of you everyday. An extraordinary loss.
To Karen, Conrad and family,
This terribly sad news of John’s death brings back a wealth of memories of one of the best. Now with his passing, it is bittersweet recalling our many years together when we shared an office at the College, and our friendship ever since. With great sadness I offer my deepest condolences.
On behalf of the National Training Service of Colombia –SENA-, I would like to express our sincerest condolences to Mr. John Oates’ family, friends, and Wordskills colleagues.
While we didn’t know Mr. Oates personally, we are aware of his great contributions to the WorldSkills Community and in improving young people’s lives through skills.
His contributions will always be valued.
Sincerely,
It is with great sadness that the Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists hears of the passing ofJohn Oates. John’s contribution to the technology community will not be forgotten. On behalf of the AETTNL Executive, Council and all our members we would like to extend our sincerest condolences to John’s family and close friends.
On behalf of WorldSkills Russia, I extend our deepest condolences on the death of Mr. John Oates. We are deeply saddened by the news of his passing.
We greatly respect Mr. John Oates’s prolific professional activities as a WorldSkills International Board member, as well as his longstanding commitment to creating opportunities for young people in his country to develop their skills.
We share the grief of Mr. John Oates’s family at this difficult time with deep sympathy and condolences. His passing is a big loss to his loved ones and colleagues around the world.
I may not know John personally but have interacted with him at WorldSkills meetings. He comes across as a very approachable person with a great mind and a good heart. The WorldSkills community will miss him as a person and his wisdom. Our deepest condolences goes out to his family and loved ones.
Karen, Conrad, and family/friends,
On behalf of the Rotary Club of St.. John’s Northwest I wish to pass on our sincere condolences on the loss of your husband, father, and friend. We always enjoyed seeing John at our club socials over the years. and appreciated all he did for our various projects and events. May it comfort you to know that your fellow Rotarians and friends are thinking of you.
When I remember John I immediately think of his smile and his wonderful laugh. He had a warmth about him that put people at ease. He was a true champion of the Skills Movement. When he spoke at any event he captured everyone’s attention. He was a respected leader and his words of encouragement helped so many along their way. He will be so missed.
My sincerest condolences to all of John’s family & friends. May memories wrap you in some comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
It is with deep sadness that we hear of John’s passing. It was a huge privilege to see John working with passion on this common path, working on behalf of WorldSkills for a better world, leaving a huge legacy.
Please accept the condolences of the entire WorldSkills Portugal family.
Dear mourning family
We received the message about John’s death with great consternation. John was always a personality to promote projects and education and enthusiastically fulfilled the role of Official Delegate for Skills Canada for the last years.
His sudden death is a great loss for all of us, but especially for his wife and family.
With our sincerest condolences
WorldSkills Liechtenstein
Official Delegate Technical Delegate
Stefan Sohler Reto Blumenthal
Passing along my condolences to John’s family. John and I spent some wonderful times in New Orleans and in St. John’s volunteering with Together by Design. I have such fond memories from the trips, I remember working on a good impression of his laugh.
He will be sorely missed by the whole TBD extended family.
I’m so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I remember him from my time participating in Skills Canada in junior high and high school. He was so lovely, open, and warm. Sending prayers to all those who loved him.
So saddened to hear of John’s passing. He was a wonderful man and kind to all.
To the Oates family. My sincere condolences. I meet John in 2007 when my daughter,,my wife and I travelled to Tokyo,Japan in the 2007 Worlds Skills competition. My daughter,Sarah competed in the beauty culture category. John was with us all the time helping us to navigate around Tokyo. He was a true gentleman to the core, every morning he checked on us to make sure my wife and I got the correct train as the competition was 200 kilometres away. I would say to him. I’m just following you John. Two Newfies following another newfie. What can go wrong. For 10 days he was a great help to us. Always smiling,, always dressed to the nines, always cheering for Sarah. She was the only newfoundlander on Team Canada . John was so proud of her. I have had conversations with him over the years since and each time he remarked about Tokyo and asked how Sarah was in her business venture. A great gentleman gone too early. RIP John
To the loved ones of John.
It was my privilege to have known John through Skills Canada and World Skills. He was professional and personal and such a wonderful person. Our hearts grieve with you during this time..Mark Bramer.
Dear Karen and families,
I am deeply saddened to hear about the sudden demise of John. It is my greatest honor to work together on the WSI Board.
John was more than just a wonderful person. We always met on the online board meeting, and he was always fully dedicated to the WSI. We will definitely keep going with his passion for promoting skills development.
I know that John’s passing will not only leave a void in our lives but in the hearts of all those who knew him. Please accept my sincere condolence on this sorrowful loss.
Sincerely,
San-Quei Lin (Taiwan)
I am saddened to hear of Mr. Oates passing. From grades 7-12 of my high school career I participated in Skills Canada provincially and nationally, feeling a great amount of support from Mr. Oates. I always admired and looked up to him as a man of great service, kindness, and intelligence.
I can confidently say he has inspired myself and many other young people to work hard, and try new things just as he did.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
No one can express the sense of loss of a true friend. We must just try our best to get through the pain and go on to brighter days. To Karen and Conrad and extended families, your are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Bonnie and Bill Oakley and family.
We are deeply sorry to learn of Mr. John Oates’s passing.
We know that he was a wonderful and warm man as a human being.
He also was a truly great leader for us and we feel honoured to have had the opportunity to work with him.
His passing will be great loss for us.
Please accept our sincerest condolences.
May he rest in peace.
With deepest sympathy,
To John’s family and friends:
There are no words to express the sadness in hearing of John’s sudden passing. He was a mentor extraordinaire…. the kindest person you could ever meet.
John, Rest In Peace, knowing you have touched infinite souls and nurtured endless positive differences in others. Your greatness must have been needed elsewhere… you will be so missed!
Love and respect,
Jane Smith Parsons and Craig Parsons
Karen, Family, and Friends,
There are no words to express the depth of our shock and sadness. John was so loved and respected by the Skills Family, not only in this province and country, but truly across the globe; our collective loss is profound. I am so thankful for the 18 years of mentorship, laughter, friendship and pride that I’ve shared with John; I will forever be thankful for having him in my life. He will always be part of our Skills Family and we will ensure his legacy lives on.
Deepest condolences from SCNL. Wishing you peace and comfort in the days to come; you are in our thoughts and hearts.
We are all shocked and saddened by John’s sudden passing last week. He meant so much to so many people. He was a good friend and mentor. I will miss our “fresh air” breaks and laughing out loud.
Acknowledgements and tributes have been coming in from around Canada and around the World. (John was recently elected to the World Skills Board of Directors). And there will be a tribute to him tomorrow at our WS meeting.
Sent on behalf of Skills Canada Yukon.
John has been served his country and the international community well in skills development among others. It is comforting to know that we will continue to benefit from a great legacy for years to come. He will be greatly missed.
Sincere condolences to his family and friends who will be in our prayers.
Best,
Stacy-Ann Davis
TDA, WorldSkills Jamaica
A good heart has stopped beating, a good soul ascended to heaven. WorldSkills Jamaica extends our sincere condolences to the family members, colleagues, associates and friends of the late John Oates. In this time of bereavement, we want to remember the invaluable contribution that he made to WorldSkills International and by extension the Member Countries. We laud his efforts in strengthening skills development in youths by championing the mandate that skills have the power to change lives.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the team, and we wish that courage, peace and strength will locate you in this time of mourning. May we continue to celebrate his life as we press towards achieving the legacy he has left behind.
Dear Karen and family,
John possessed great poise, humour and humility. He was such a respected statesman for the Skills Movement and he will be deeply missed.
Condolences from the Skills Canada Alberta Staff Team and Board of Directors.
There are simply no words which sufficiently express the feelings around this loss. John was the epitome of the perfect gentleman, a great colleague, friend and advocate for the skills movement. He has been taken far too early and my condolences to his wife, family and the NL Skills Community.
John was an inspirational role model to many around the world. He will be missed by many. I am very sorry for your loss.
John was such a gentle and caring soul, I will miss his kindness and wisdom. WorldSkills has lost a great friend with his passing.
Sending love and hugs to Karen and his loved ones.
So very sorry Karen and family, my thoughts are with you in these difficult times. John was one of the kindest, caring, most gentle person I have met., such a leader and mentor., he will be missed by so many.
Dear Karen, family, and friends:
We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of John. We will remember him as a key figure and advocate of our WorldSkills movement. It was always a pleasure to meet him regularly across the world. We will miss him dearly. Please be strong and remember to look after yourselves so his memory can be kept alive.
WorldSkills France
Chère Karen, chère famille et chers amis :
Nous sommes profondément attristés par le décès soudain de John. Nous nous souviendrons de lui comme d’une figure clé et d’un défenseur de notre mouvement WorldSkills. C’était toujours un plaisir de le rencontrer régulièrement à travers le monde. Il nous manquera terriblement. Soyez fort et n’oubliez pas de prendre soin de vous afin que sa mémoire puisse rester vivante.
WorldSkills France
Dear Karen, family and friends:
I had the great pleasure to work with John on the League Data board for the past five years and quickly grew to know him as one of the kindest, funniest, and most generous people ever.
His deep and thoughtful insights were hallmarks of our meetings, and his quick wit made him a favourite after-meeting table mate.
So glad I had the good fortune to know him, so sad at his passing.
– George & Catherine
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember John for his kindness and passion for the youth he championed! His commitment to the Skills
movement through Competences Canada was infectious.
Someone so special will not be forgotten.
Maria Pacella and the Skills Manitoba Board and Staff
Dear Karen, family and friends of John,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I had the pleasure of working with John through Skills Canada for close to 20 years. He was always kind, generous, professional and most importantly he had time for whomever needed it. John made a difference in so many people’s lives and he will truly be missed. He was a colleague, mentor, friend and a true champion.
Dear Karen and family,
We are very saddened by the news of John’s sudden passing and find it hard to believe.
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
We have all lost a good friend. We wish you strength during this difficult time.
Our sincere condolences,
Gert Lanz, Thomas Pardeller and Manuel Weissteiner – Worldskills Italy
My deepest condolences to John’s immediate family and to his broader Skills family in Newfoundland. It was my privilege to know John through Skills Canada, and WorldSkills. The skills community has lost a terrific champion and leader. Rest in peace my friend, knowing that you had a huge positive impact on the lives of countless young people.
Karen and family,
Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. You have lost a wonderful person and gentleman. We wish that you have peace and comfort in your hearts during this difficult time.
We shall always miss you John, from Uganda
Condolences to John’s family,
Have known John for over thirty years. One of the finest people I’ve ever known – a true and loyal friend, respected colleague, and overall great guy. Very shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. He will be missed by all who were privileged to have called him friend.
Dear Karen and family,
The news of Johns sudden passing are hard to believe.
Our thoughts are with you and your family, who lost a wonderful husband and friend. We wish you strength during this difficult time.
Our sincere condolences,
André Burri, Rico Cioccarelli and Martin Erlacher on behalf of SwissSkills
Dear Karen and family,
I want express my sincere condolences to you of the sudden loss of Mr. John Oates.
I wish and pray to you have comfort and peace in your heart.
Please accept my deepest condolences
My Condolences to John’s family. I had the privilege of travelling to New Orleans with John a couple of times, once including my daughter. We made a difference in some peoples life as John did in mine. Rest in peace John.
Karen and family,
So sorry to hear of your profound loss. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Shane and Darlene Flight
Dear Karen, Conrad, family and friends of John,
John Oates was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He was a person that was truly interested in the well-being of others. His legacy will live on in the people that he inspired daily.
John was a person that I admired and I enjoyed being in his presence. My heartfelt condolences to you all. He will be greatly missed by many.
We are profoundly disheartened by the passing of John Oates.
We will miss him dearly and wanted to extend our sympathies to his wife, family, friends and colleagues from Skills Canada and WorldSkills family.
On behalf of Spainskills, please accept our sincere condolences.
Dear Karen and family,
on behalf of SkillsAustria I want to express our big sadness of the sudden loss of John. He was a great “WorldSkiller”. Please accept the deepest condolences of SkillsAustria.
Dear Karen and family,
we are vey saddened to hear of the sudden loss of John.
Please accept our deepest condoleances.
Dear Karen, Conrad and family,
Deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of John. He will be missed within the global skills community.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Ray English-WorldSkills Ireland
To John’s family and friends,
I want to express my deepest sympathy for your loss on behalf of Vcom. Although I didn’t have the chance to know John very well, his contributions and hard work to WorldSkills will never be forgotten. Please take care and accept our sincere condolences. Rest in Peace, John.
Dear Karen and family,
we are very sad about the news, that John passed away.
We deeply regret your loss.
John spent his whole life, to give young talents a direction and inspiration for their future. He contributed so much to the global WorldSkills family.
We are so thankful for this.
John will be warmly remembered.
With our deepest condolences,
Hubert Romer on behalf of WorldSkills Germany
Dear Karen and families
Please accept my sincere condolences .
Technical Delegate
Morocco
Dear Kareen and family,
Please accept our deepest condolences to your sudden loss of John.
We are so sorry to hear the very sad news about John.
He will surely be missed.
Pontus Slättman on behalf of WorldSkills Sweden
Dear Karen and familly
We are vey saddened to hear of the sudden loss of John. He was a great advocate for young people and will be missed by the WorldSkills community globally.
On behalf of WorldSkills UK , please accept our sincere condolences and know that you are in our thoughts.
Neil Bentley-Gockmann – CEO WorldSkills UK
Dear Karen and family,
We were deeply saddened to hear of John’s sudden passing.
Please accept our deepest condoleances.
Alina Fleaca on behalf of WorldSkills Belgium
It is with sadness that we learnt of John’s passing. On behalf of WorldSkills South Africa we express our heartfelt condolensces to John’s family.
May his soul rest in eternal peace of God which surpasses all understanding.
by David Mabusela (Offical Delegate, ZA)
Karen & Conrad
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. I knew John though my involvement with Skills Canada NL. I will always remember his passion for the Skills movement provincially, nationally and more recently the world. From first meeting John I felt I knew him all my life. We became great friends and it didn’t matter who was in the room he always went out of his way to have a chat. Competitors, volunteers, government ministers were all equal in his mind. He was down to earth, friendly, funny but most of all a true person for others. My only regret is not getting a chance to play a round of golf with him. My thoughts are with you and the family at this difficult time, Rest In Peace my friend.
Tom (Calgary)
On behalf of WorldSkills Croatia please accept our sincere condolences.
Dear members of the Board and Secretariat,
We learnt with great sorrow about the sudden death of Board member and Treasurer, Mr. John Oates.
He will be always remembered as one of the most remarkable personalities in the WorldSkills International.
On behalf of the WorldSkills Armenia as well as in my own name, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Mr. John Oates family, friends, colleagues and all those who mourn his loss.
Dear Ms Kareen and all family members,
Please accept our deepest condolences to your sudden loss of John.
We are so sorry to hear the very sad news about John. Not very close, but we remember and will miss his passion and love for WorldSkills as well as his kind and warm-hearted smiles.
Rest in peace, John.
Dear Karen and family,
Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Although I have not had the privilege and honour to have known John personally, I ‘know the man by the friends’ he had kept all along. and what I had heard about him now and in the past.
He will surely be missed by all those who have known him and who have not in the big family of WorldSkills and elsewhere he had been associated with and helped to succeed.
You and your family should be very proud of John for what he had accomplished so far.
Please take care yourselves in this most difficult time !
Dear Ms Kareen and all family members,
very sorry to hear the news of Heavenly trip of Mr John Oates. I know him as a member of technical delegate team of WSI and do recall his face and movements in our tasks.
Not very close, but my associations were very vibrant. He respect Indian team and the love extended to me was heartening.
May God rest his soul in peace.
venugopalan.
past technical delegate India.(2009-2015)
Hony member WSI.
Dear Karen and families
Please accept my sincere condolences . He was a great person and believed in the skills development. My prayers are with you.
Technical Delegate
United Arab Emirates
Karen, Conrad and family,
Sincere condolences to you all. I too had the privilege of working with John at CNA and he was very well liked and respected. He was a great mentor and friend to many and will be missed by everyone who was fortunate to know him.
Dear Karen and families.
Devastating news about John. I got to know and build a sincere friendship with John through his work and commitment as Official Delegate for Canada to WorldSkills International. That respect grew enormously when John joined the Board of WSI. In his short time on the Board, his experience, knowledge, professionalism, integrity, and commitment were obvious along with the value he brought to WorldSkills global leadership.
John was an awesome person! Thank you for supporting him and his passion of youth, skills, and education. The world is a better place because of him!
Sincerely, David
To John’s Family, sorry to hear of John’s passing.. R.I.P. , John.
To Karen and Conrad:
I was absolutely shaken and saddened when I heard of John’s passing so suddenly. One of my early and fond memories of John was as part of the ‘ birthday club’ at the then College of Trades and Technology, when we would meet in the Math instructors office on the 3rd floor and celebrate one of our birthdays.
Over the years John and I had worked together on numerous projects and activities particularly when we both worked at the Engineering Techology Centre on Ridge Rd where I worked in Student Services and John was the Campus Administrator.
As so many have said, John was the consummate gentleman who always had a good word for everyone, got along with all and was liked and respected buy any who encountered him.
While I retired from the College over ten years ago, I remained connected with John through Karen and our membership in Rotary, during which time John would often attend Club social’s over the years.
He will surely be missed by all but especially by you, Karen and Conrad, at this stage in your lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We can only imagine what an incredible shock John’s sudden passing must have been to you both. John will be missed and mourned by so many people in Canada and beyond. May your many happy times with John serve to ease the blow of his untimely passing far too soon .
Rest in peace John, knowing that you have left your mark in this world with so many people.
Karen and families,
John was such a lovely person. You must be feeling great loss. Condolences to you.
Sincerely, Christine Molloy
We are so shocked and sorry to hear of John’s passing. We have such fond memories of his intelligence, warmth and sense of humour. Our sincere condolences.
I was so sorry to learn of John’s sudden passing. I offer my sincere sympathies and condolences to the Family at this most difficult time.. My prayers are with you.
Karen and Conrad we are so sorry to hear of John’s passing.
Bill and John worked closely together for many years. They shared many good times together. Bill loved John’s dry sense of humor. They took trips together for work, but always managed to have a good time. Bill has many fond memories of John and sends his best regards to you both.
Karen and family
John’s sudden passing certainly highlights how short and precious life is, the importance of making each day count., and the joy it brings when you surround yourself with people to love and laugh with. He sure knew how to do all of that.. We may not have spent lots of time together but we certainly enjoyed each encounter and were looking forward to more. Thinking of you – and your unimaginable loss. No words. Hugs Marina and Fred
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy & sincere condolences to the family and of my late cousin John Oates on his sudden passing..
Sincerely
Louise (Oates) Penney
Karen and Conrad
Please accept our condolences on johns passing . I was shocked and saddened as I thought John was in good shape and getting ready for our golf season . He will missed but not forgotten .
Our thoughts and prayers go with you
Karen and Family,
I was shocked and saddened to learn of John’s sudden passing. I worked with John at CNA for many years. He was such a kind and gentle person, admired and well-respected. Within the various leadership roles he held he was always willing to listen; accessible and keen to help. He went above and beyond to assist students, faculty and staff. Our thoughts are with you.
Brenda Newhook & Derek Yetman
Karen, Conrad and extended families
Our sincerest condolences on Jack’s passing. Although we haven’t been with Jack in recent years only to meet at a hockey game or on the golf course we still consider him to be a very dear friend. We will cherish all of our memories of the good times spent together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
Karen….. I am so sorry to learn of John’s sudden passing. He was a fine human being and the world is poorer without him.
I worked with John at College of the North Atlantic. He was always a dedicated, positive person; a joy to work with. I am saddened by his loss, and wish strength to his family and friends.
Karen and Conrad
So sorry to hear about John’s passing. I remember the days of Avalon Celtics and how John was so nice to deal with and always so supportive to me as coach.
Take care and again accept my condolences for your loss of a very good person.
Please accept our condolences on Johns sudden passing. I went to school with him in Carbonear and he was always a wonderful guy. I’m sure he will be deeply missed by his family and friends. God bless you all.
Dear Karen and Conrad;
John was a wonderful man, who’s kindness and good humour touched everyone around him. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Karen,
To say I was shocked and saddened is an understatement. John was one of the shining stars of CNA. His kindness and calm was endless. His support of students, faculty and staff was always a first priority. He was a true gentleman who will be deeply missed. I am so sorry for your loss.
Karen and family
Thinking of you with sympathy during this sad time. Wishing you peace and comfort.
Marian Fushell
Karen, Conrad and Family,
We were so very saddened to hear about John’s sudden passing. He was such a decent guy. We will remember John for his keen mind, great humor, kind heart and gentle soul. It was always such a pleasure to be in his company. Please know you are in our thoughts at this most difficult time. Rest easy John.
Karen and family,
Sitting down to read the weekend paper, I was surprised to see John’s name in the obituary column. So sad for those left to cope with his loss. May the many happy times remain in your memory and thoughts now and always. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Karen, Conrad and the Oates Family,
Bill and I were sad to hear of John’s sudden passing. We both worked with John at CNA and echo the sentiments of his many colleagues. He was a professional, supportive and dedicated leader. We hope your many memories will bring comfort during this difficult time.
Cindy & Bill
Karen
Please accept my sincere condolences upon John’s sudden passing. He was a great person and supportive colleague during my time at CNA. He will be warmly remembered. I hope that the sympathy expressed by so many helps you through this difficult time.
Heidi Janes
Jack you were the best friend a guy could have. We had good times in our teenage years and then went our different paths. I was so happy to reconnect with you a few years ago. Our planned get together will have to wait. In the meantime I’m having a beer and thinking good thoughts about you. Rest In Peace my friend .
Churk
I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was such a good man and he will be missed. My thoughts are with Karen and family.
Karen, Conrad, and families, you have my sincere condolences on John’s sudden passing. Please know there is a community of support and strength surrounding you. I am thinking of you and will remember you in my prayers.
Take care,
Sarah
Dear Karen,
There are no words, there are no thoughts, that can express or comprehend the loss of one’s life partner and friend. Praying for you and Conrad during this very difficult time.
To Karen, Conrad, Carole and extended families.
My sincere condolences to you all at this very challenging time as you mourn John’s sudden and untimely death. I trust you will find the love and prayers of family and friends provide courage and strength along the way. John was the namesake of my late father and his uncle, John Oates, Sr., from the southside of Carbonear, who died as the result of a swimming accident at a very young age in the summer of 1951.
To his family and friends I say, lean on each other and draw strength from one another! To John I say, “Fair winds and following seas, dear friend!” as you travel on the next part of your journey! Until we meet again!
Karen and family,
We are so saddened by John’s sudden passing and your terrible loss. We have many, many happy memories of dinners with you and John and the joy and laughter you brought are even more precious now. We are sharing in your grief and consider it a true privilege to have known John. Karen, you are constantly in our thoughts. With much love, Rosemary and Oz
Karen, Conrad and the extended families…
We were shocked and saddened to hear of John’s passing. As so many others, I was privileged to have worked with John for most of my career at CNA. Throughout his leadership positions, he was always supportive of our programs and a great adviser. There is no doubt he was one of the best. Rest in peace John. Please accept our sincere condolences to you and your family.
John was always a pleasure to work with and I know he will be missed by all those that knew him. I remember John from my time working at CNA and through his work with Skills. He always seemed to enjoy his work and his life. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
Karen, Sometimes the right words can’t be found, but please know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. We will always remember John as a kind, passionate man with a big heart, and a laugh one would never forget.
Hold on to the many special memories you shared together …they will last a lifetime.
Love Cathy and Gordie
Karen,
I was shocked and saddened to hear of John’s sudden passing. I too, had the privilege of working with John at CNA.. He was a devoted educator; kind and fair to all. He was always supportive. My sincere condolences at this difficult time..
Dan Goodyear
Dear Karen,
Your head and heart will be full of memories of John these days, and some will bring a tear and others a smile just now. Those are the ones to hold close to you…and they’ll carry you through these tough times. Know that we’re thinking of you,
With much love,
Jan and David Buley
Karen, Conrad and families:
I was so surprised and saddened to hear about John’s passing. John touched so many lives for the good. I’m grateful I had the chance to know him as both a coworker at CNA and a cherished friend. He truly had an impact on my life and will be missed by all.
With heartfelt sympathy.
Charmaine Terry
John was one of the good ones. Intelligent, thoughtful and respectful, his contributions to the many Boards on which he served is incalculable. A true Public Servant. It was an honour to have known him and a privilege to have worked with him.
To: Karen, Conrad, Carol and families
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the sudden passing of John. Thinking of you all at this difficult time you are in my thoughts and prayers .
Lovingly and fondly remembered .
Melvin Oates and families
Roaches Line
When I heard John had passed, I felt so sad. After working with him at CNA and following his travels with Skills, Worlds and other causes, I knew that he was one-of-a-kind. Always with a smile, a joke, and a gently nudge, I found him supportive and a great person to talk to. Anyone who has had the privilege of meeting him will feel his loss.
My deepest condolences to his family. I’m so sorry for your loss.
To Karen, Conrad and families
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the sudden passing of John. Those we love never pass from us as we will always have them in our hearts. Thinking of you at the difficult time.
Bill and Clara Oates and family
Carbonear
To: Karen, Conrad and families
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of Jo
To: Karen, Conrad, Carol and families
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the sudden passing of your beloved John. Words are inadequate to fully express the loss of such a beautiful and gentle soul. I pray God’s peace for you to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead and remberance of loving memories to hold in your hearts. May God’s Grace sustain you as you travel this difficult journey. Upholding you in support with love and prayer.
RIP John
Vicki Oates Thorne
Carbonear
Karen and Conrad. I had the privilege to work with John at CNA and Skills Canada. John was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. It is a shock to hear of his sudden passing .. my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Karen – Hard to find words to express how shocked & saddened I was to hear of John’s sudden passing. As you know we golfed together almost every weekend, & also enjoyed several Florida golf trips as well,. To say he will be sadly missed is an understatements. It was a privilege to call him a friend. Sincere Condolences to you, Conrad & entire extended families.
Sorry to hear of the passing of John. A wonderful gentleman who gave so much. Condolences to all the family. Rest easy.
Sincerest condolences to Karen and Conrad. I was so saddened to hear of John’s passing. As a colleague at CNA John was the epitome of respect and regard for others. His calm and caring manner supported us through difficult times and his leadership and positive nature taught us a way forward. To all who knew him he was a special person. My thoughts are with you at this time.
So sorry to hear of Johns sudden passing. I golfed with him several times over the years. My condolences to the family and May he RIP.
Karen and Conrad,
We are only here for a moment in time, John spent his time helping others to achieve their best. John was a long standing member o the Public Service Credit Union, and served on its Board sharing his time and experience, we are thankful to have had him as a colleague and friend. Thinking of you at this very sad time.
Karen, we were so saddened to hear of John’s sudden passing and send our deepest condolences. I enjoyed working with John on the Board of League Data for several years, having first met many years ago when he worked at Cabot and I was at Marine Institute. John was the greatest guy … his perspective was always balanced and intelligent, his personality so outgoing … truly a class act. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very challenging time. We hope you will cherish all the good memories.
Karen, so sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a good and kind man, and a wonderful colleague. My sincere condolences to you and your son.
Dear Karen and family,
I am very saddened to know about the passing of John. He was a longtime colleague and friend. I’ll never forget many memories of fun together. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Please accept my very sincere condolences. I pray to God to give you enough strength to bear this loss.
I’ll miss John!
Mohinder Grewal
Karen,
I was shocked and so saddened to hear of your sudden loss. My heart goes out to you at this time.
Leah Lewis
So sorry to hear of the sudden passing of John. You and Conrad and in our thoughts.
Karen and Conrad,
We are so saddened to hear of John’s passing. He was a great friend and colleague, so full of life.
Please accept our deep condolences. We will miss him.
Colin and Barbara Forward
Karen and Conrad,
Please accept my very sincere condolences on John’s passing! You are both in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. John was an honourable man and I have the fondest memories of him. May the many treasured memories bring you peace.
Dear Karen, Conrad and families,
I was so sorry to hear of your husband and father’s passing. Please know that he is with you always. God bless and take care.
Korona Brophy (GHS and MUN)
So sorry to hear about Jack’s passing my sincere condolences to the Oates family.
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was one of the finest persons I have ever known. Condolences to the family.
Karen, deepest sympathy to you, Conrad, and all your family.. We enjoyed meeting and chatting with John at our Rotary socials. Thinking of you all at this sad time.
Karen, we were very saddened to hear of the passing of your husband John.
Our thoughts have been with you since we heard this terrible news. We can appreciate how difficult this must be for you and your family.
Dennis and Barbara Mulcahy
I met John through Skills Canada and WorldSkills and enjoyed seeing his smiling face at whatever spot in the world we were at for a Skills event. Such a kind man, a great listener and someone who was just lovely to be around.
He will be deeply missed. Thinking of all of John’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Dear Karen and family,
John was a longtime colleague and friend. I will treasure many memories of good work and fun together. He was a special guy. Who made lasting contributions and differences.
My deepest condolences and warm regards for peace and happy memories.
Marilyn Luscombe
Boy oh boy….. Karen/family, so sad to get the news of John’s passing. He was quite the guy in whatever he took on….. always up for a good conversation. All the best going forward… Kevin and Sharon.
Such an amazing man, husband, father, friend! Gone way too soon! Sending love and prayers from me to your family.
So sorry to John’s family and friends on the loss.,. His Skills family is mourning the loss too, he was a great advocate for youth and will be missed deeply by many. His laughter, support and kindness will live on in his memory. Rest In Peace
Karen and family:
I was so saddened to hear of the sudden passing of your beloved husband, John. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. Take care and God Bless.
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time, Karen.
May God’s blessings and peace with you.
With sincere condolences,
Nadeem
To John’s family and friends
I am so incredibly sad to hear the news of his passing. As a Geomatics graduate from CNA I had the opportunity to come back to the college and speak at events for future students. He was so genuinely happy to hear how well I was doing, it was the kind of person he was. I know he will be greatly missed by so many.
Elizabeth
We are deeply saddened for your loss.John was a very good friend and a large part of our college group. We especially remember the wonderful tributes John wrote and delivered to many of us on our retirement from the College. He was one of the best.
I worked with John for a few years with Skills Canada. He was a father figure in the organization and when he was around, we felt cared for. When he entered the room, he was like sunshine. My deepest condolences. Rest in peace John.
Dear Karen and family:
My thoughts and sympathies are with you at this difficult time of loss. Those who left, they still live in our memories and hearts.
With sincere condolences,
Margo
I have fond memories of the many interactions I had with John while living in Carbonear. My sincerest condolences to his immediate and extended family members. God bless. Jim
My moments in John’s presence were rare but what was infinitely more rare was the gentle, calming, quietly joyful presence it was. The idea of gentleman is so very often overused. John, you were and are the epitome of same. While many, including I, will miss you… I am ever thankful to have known you. The best I can do in remembering and honoring you is to learn from you. Your life blessed so many. To all who knew and loved John ever more … my sincere thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I had the pleasure of working at several events across Canada and around the world with John with the Skills Canada and WorldSkills organizations. He was always the first to praise others in public for their work and truly make colleagues, volunteers and anyone around him feel valued and appreciated. I will miss him greatly and will miss having laughs at each other’s expense. Much love.
Karen and famiky
Truly sorry for your loss . Hope. In time every memory will bring you c mfort and joy . Thinking of you all in this difficult time.
Dear Karen, Conrad, and family:
We send sincere sympathies on the sudden and unexpected loss of your husband and father. We will keep you in our thoughts prayers on this sad occasion. We will always remember how generous your family was when we asked for furniture for one of our doctoral students five or six years ago. From what I have seen today, such generosity permeated your family life on a daily basis.
God bless you all.
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Karen, Conrad, & extended Family,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, at this time.
Hold fast to your wonderful memories!
Sincere condolences!
Linda Coles
We are so sorry to hear of John’s passing..He certainly was the product of two great parents as well as an education system second to none in our province..
To all his family and friends,especially Conrad ,we offer our condolences and prayers..
I was shocked and so very sad to hear of John’s passing. I worked with John for 37 years at College of the North Atlantic and during those years I could always depend on him for guidance and support. He was always present, always approachable. He was a friend, a mentor and a great individual. He enjoyed life, he enjoyed people and was certainly taken way too soon.
Karen and Conrad, please accept my heartfelt condolences during this very difficult time, take comfort in knowing that there are many who join you in your loss. While I know there are no words to ease your pain right now, hold fast to your wonderful memories and know that many will be holding you and your family in their thoughts and prayers. Donna Feltham
I was so shocked to hear the news of John’s sudden passing. He was not just a mere colleague for me but also my friend who departed way too soon. I met him when I started teaching at the college over 35 years ago. He was a true gentleman. Rest in peace my friend.
Loving thoughts and prayers go out to Karen and all John’s family.
To John’s beloved wife and son
My heart is so very sad with the loss of a truly amazing gentleman. I had the privilege of travelling and volunteering with john for 18 years with Skills NL ,Skills Canada and World Skills. A beautiful bright light has gone out indeed. Cherish the memories and may your hearts be comforted with the love he surrounded you with during your time together.
Sincere condolences,
Debbie
It was always a pleasure to work and spend time with you John. Condolences from my family to yours.
Dear Karen,
Marc and I were shocked and deeply saddened today to hear of the Loss of John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. May the support of family and friends give you strength and comfort.
So very sad to hear of the passing of our good friend John, he was a pleasure to sped time with both on and off the golf. Course. John’s hearty laugh and dry sense of humor will be forever missed by all who knew him .our thoughts and prayers are with Karen and family at this trying time. Donny and Ruby Colbert
Deepest sympathy to John’s family and friends. He was a true gentleman, always giving of himself and willing to help others. I have fond memories of John when we both served on the board of the Public Service Credit Union. May his gentle soul rest peacefully in the loving arms of our Savior.
Karen, so sorry to hear this sad news. I truly hope you will visit me in Nova Scotia when (and if) you can come over to Nova Scotia. With sympathy, Bobbi
Karen and family,
We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers as you grieve the loss of someone so dear to so many.
Deepest condolences,
Rhonda and Rob
Karen, Conrad and John’s extended family,
Shocked to hear of John’s passing.. He was a gentle soul with a pleasant and positive demeanour. He had a smile for all that crossed his path and was guaranteed to make others smile with his quick wit and optimistic outlook on life.
Prayers and blessings to you as you grieve your loss. I hope that your memories of John will bring you much comfort in the days to come. Heaven has gained a real Angel.
Our hearts are broken over the loss of our friend John. He was a wonderful person and we feel privileged to have known him. Please accept our sincere sympathy Karen and family . Take care Bill and Jan Wadden
John was a very good man.. He was the person who kept all of us retirees up to date on the good and sad events of our lives. We will miss you.
Karen,
My heart aches for you and the rest of the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I had the pleasure of meeting John when I was a member of The Newfoundland and Labrador Chefs Association. Gerry Carew who was a Culinary Instructor at CNA introduced me to John. He was a very gentle soul and had a great sense of humor and a real gentleman. My deepest sympathy to his family. Rest in peace John.
Although we worked together before, it was our trip to India in 2001 to develop an environmental program for Nachimuthu. Polytechnic College that bound us forever. We always shared jokes about the mango juice every time we spoke after that (It was mango juice that gave us food poisoning). Being that sick in close quarters was a real bonding experience.
It was my first big international trip and I was so happy to have John to follow. We did lots of great work, but had a glass of rum in the evenings and enjoyed getting some supper. We had time to get around and explore and buy a few crafts as well. It was great training for my 5 years in Qatar.
We were only in contact now and then… birthday wishes, a remark on facebook, etc but every meeting was a delight. In fact, I tagged him on Wednesday and wondered why there was no reply… He will always be my friend. News of his passing shocked and saddened me greatly. I will miss him.
My sympathies to Karen, Conrad, family and fiends.
I am so sorry for your loss. John will be fondly remembered and sadly missed.
Rest in Eternal Peace kind soul John spread kindness and goodness wherever he ventured…many folks were touched by him and her will truly be missed….may his memory be a blessing to Karen and family….God Bless.
I truly enjoyed working with John at the Public Service Credit Union. He was always looking for opportunities to assist the less fortunate in our community. His great work ethic and sense of humour will be missed by us all of us.