JOHN ASHTON FERGUSON

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JOHN ASHTON FERGUSON John passed away peacefully on November 25, 2009 at 97 years of age at Deer Lodge Centre, his home for the past five years. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 70 years, Irene (nee Burns), daughter Penny Johnson (Darryl), son Gary (Kim), grandchildren Jodi (Paul), Corbin (Jennifer), Quentin, Skylar and great-granddaughter Lucy. John was always happiest when surrounded by his family. John is survived by two brothers George and Leonard, and was predeceased by four brothers, Dave, Frank, Stewart and Alfred, and one sister, Muriel. Born in Winnipeg in 1912, John had a strong West End upbringing. He attended Principal Sparling School and Daniel McIntyre Collegiate. Due to the economic conditions at the time, John went to work at Eaton's at age 16, beginning as a copy boy in the advertising department. Over the years he managed various departments in Eaton's including ladies dresses, coats, lingerie, the basement store and foodateria. When John retired in 1977 after 50 years of service, he was Group Sales and Merchandise Manager of Eaton's Lower Priced Stores in Winnipeg and across Western Canada. In 1931, Irene Burns was working as a cashier in Eaton's exchange department, but it was while playing third base for the store team that she caught the eye of Johnny Ferguson. Their first date was Valentine's Day that year and they were married in 1939. John and Irene spent many years at the Winter Club and at their cottage at sunny Sandy Hook which became the hub for family activities and Dad's numerous summer projects! After retiring, John and Irene became yearly snowbirds enjoying time with their friends in Biloxi on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This year John was very proud to celebrate 50 years as a Khartum Temple Shriner. The immediate family enjoyed a quiet gathering to celebrate John's life. Cremation has taken place. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation. Many thanks to all of the wonderful staff of Tower 7, Deer Lodge Centre, for taking such great care of our Dad.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2009