May 31, 1928 - February 10, 2023
John peacefully met his Lord and Saviour in his 95th year. First born son of the late Gordon and Joyce Lidstone. Loving husband of Rae, with whom he recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. Proud father to Philip (Eva), Graham (Valerie) and Bobby. Predeceased by his brother Maurice (Gladys) and sister Marilyn Baxter (Ken). Survived by sister Pat Petrick (Lanny). Ya Ya (Grandfather) of Kimberly Policicchio (Mike), Kevin (Jingjing), Lauren Heaman (Brett), Greg (Simone), Marcie Calvert (Jake) and Ryan (Kathleen). Great grandfather of Nora, Henry, Olivia, Owen, Mikayla, Lucy, Miles, Jack, Callie, Calvin, Kai, Zach, Evie and Beau.
Our Dad gave 100% to everything he did.
John was Chief Engineer of Iron and Steelmaking at Algoma Steel. He was especially proud of his work as project manager for the construction of the #2 BOSP (Basic Oxygen Steel Plant).
John and Rae became very involved at Bethel Bible Chapel, and over the years dad was a Sunday school teacher, AWANA leader and elder. He loved, respected and supported everyone in the congregation.
Dad (Buzz) was involved and loved the work at Camp Aush-Bik-Koong. Countless miles were put on his car for spring work parties, and summer weeks of vacation taken to counsel. This work carried over to the winter months as he was a long standing member of the Board of Directors, and along with Rae, was Camp registrar for many years. He believed that ABK provided a wonderful opportunity to share the Word of God with young people.
Dad will be fondly remembered for many reasons, but mostly for the great love he had for his family. Other highlights include:
• The immense joy he found in his garden where he spent a great deal of his spare time;
• The care he took of his own parents -- he truly enjoyed spending time with them, both in the Sault and at the family “camp" in beautiful Batchawana Bay; and,
• As snowbirds who resided part of the winter in sunny Daytona Beach Shores in their retirement years, John and Rae escaped the harsh Sault Ste. Marie winters, and found a second home with the New Smyrna Bible Chapel community.
John spent his final years at Extendicare Maple View, and frequently commented on the excellent level of care he received from the staff there.
Friends and family are invited to visit Bethel Bible Chapel (626 Black Road) on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 from 10:45 am until 11:45 am. Memorial Service to follow at 12:00 pm in the auditorium. Mr. Ryan Lidstone officiating. Friends are invited to view the service online and it can be viewed anytime up to 90 days. Go to www.funeraweb.tv and select John's name to view the service. A luncheon will follow the service in the fellowship room. In lieu of flowers memorial donations (made payable by cheque or online) to Camp ABK would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Please visit www.arthurfuneralhome.com obituaries section to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for the family. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E., 705-759-2522).