DR. JOHN ALEXANDER MAGILL SHAW

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DR. JOHN ALEXANDER MAGILL SHAW July 6, 1926 - July 25, 2006 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John / Dad / Grandpa. John was born in Northern Ireland. He grew up in Belfast and in the small town of Banbridge. He had wonderful stories to share with his grandchildren of those simpler days and times. Left to remember and cherish his memory is his wife of 50 years Ona Shaw. John and Ona married in Scotland where they had the first two of their three children. His children, Alan (Julie), Andrew (Sandy) and Fiona will forever be grateful to have had such a wonderful father. Grandchildren, Caitlin, Georgia and Braeden will remember a gentle loving soul that Georgia called Papa John Caitlin, being the oldest, will be able to pass on the many stories her grandpa told her as they spent countless hours together. Braeden the youngest did not have long with his grandfather but each moment spent was one of joy for John. Braeden's cheeky smiley face will be one of the last things he saw before peacefully passing away in his sleep. John leaves behind his sister Martha (Mervyn); brothers, Aubrey, Geordie and Robbie as well as countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends scattered throughout Northern Ireland. He was happy at every phone call with his brothers and overjoyed when his sister came to Canada to visit. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Martha; brothers, William and Walter and by sisters-in-law, Grace, Naomi and Doris. John and Ona immigrated to Canada in 1967. He began work at the University of Manitoba where he was a Professor of Pharmacy. He loved his work and cared deeply for all his students. His contributions to pharmacy continue through the many students whose lives he touched. The skill of his teaching was reflected in the honour of being bestowed the Beatrice Stanton Excellence in Teaching Award. He retired from the U of M in 1990. With free time to spare he put extra energy into maintaining his beautiful garden and in making Caitlin many beautiful wood projects. Some of his happiest times were spent at Clear Lake Manitoba, in listening to old Irish songs, playing with his grandchildren and being with his wife and best friend Ona. He loved nature, gardening and his friends and family. He held a special spot in his heart for Debby Shaw. Special thanks are sent to the Victoria General Hospital who provided loving care during the past several years of ill health. The nurses were amazing in their care and compassion. Also a special thanks to Hutzi Nickels, John and Ona's first friend in Canada, who was there to support Ona when the time of passing occurred. Ona and John had some very great friends and a thank you goes out to each and every one of them. John will be missed more than words can say but his friends and family take comfort that they had the privilege of knowing this lovely man and in the many good memories. Cremation has taken place at Voyage Funeral Home. Family and friends are gathering in John's garden to pay respects and remember this wonderful man. At John's request there is no service at this time.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 29, 2006