January 20, 1931 – July 18, 2024
John was born in Calgary, Alberta the son of Doris Cook and Richard (Dick) Bishop. John passed away suddenly after a long battle with dementia at the Veterans Memorial Lodge in Victoria. He is survived by his loving wife Judy Moss; son David Bishop: grandchildren: Heather, Scott, Andrew, Matthew and Jordan; brother Bud Bishop (Mary) and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his ex wife Molly Bishop; his siblings: Doreen Collins and Neville Bishop and his daughter Wendy Inglis.
John joined the Canadian Army as a Private in 1950 at age 19 to go to Korea with the Special Forces. He served with 2 PPCLI in the Korean War and fought in the Battle of Kapyong. On return to Canada, he joined the regular Army and served for 36 years attaining the rank of LCol. He had many overseas postings including 2 tours in Korea, England, Germany, Ghana, Middle East and Vietnam.
On retirement, John and Judy took a 1 year sailing trip down the Intercoastal Waterway to the Bahamas. They then moved to Vancouver Island where John got busy building their home in Cobble Hill. John became actively involved with the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron and the MBYC. John and Judy were avid sailors exploring the Coast of BC, up to Alaska, around Vancouver Island, Haida Gwaii and the Washington Coast and up the Columbia River. Always an adventurer John enjoyed travel and hiking.
John volunteered with many veteran organizations, including Korean Veterans Association, Peacekeepers, RUSI, IFKWVA and Fourandex. He also wrote and published a book on his time in the Korean War (The King’s Bishop) with the assistance of Stephen Brodsky. Known for his positive attitude, huge smile, and always enjoying a joke, funny stories and a laugh he will be sorely missed by those that knew and loved him.
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC or charity of your choice.
To express condolences, share memories and photos, please visit: www.sandsduncan.ca
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