Johnny Gus Johns

John, aged 79, passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023, leaving his family and numerous friends grieving his loss. Remembered fondly, John is survived by his three daughters, Leanne K. Johns, Kimberly Blakley, and Colleen Johns Quo Vadis, as well as four cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn Rae Ryan (Eli), Cameron Johns (Alex), Reid Blakley (Ash), and Kendall Johns.

John’s life was marked by both joy and sorrow as he was preceded in death by his parents, Gus Johns and Susan Johns (née Csada), as well as his beloved wife, Carole Ann (née Parkes). Their love story began on a blind date, arranged by their friends. From that moment on, John was devoted to Carole Ann, and they shared an incredible journey together for 58 years until her passing.

Affectionately dubbed “The Greek” by his college buddies, John’s charisma and social nature attracted countless friends. He excelled in team sports and fostered lifelong friendships from his athletic days as a football player for The Rams, as well as his involvement in basketball and hockey at the University of Saskatchewan. In his teenage years, John acquired a pilot’s license and eventually fulfilled his dream of owning an airplane.

Educationally, John completed his degree in Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan, subsequently pursuing an MBA at the prestigious Berkeley in California. Following a successful stint at esteemed companies such as Xerox and Boise Cascade, he relocated his family to Regina, SK. There, he made lasting impressions as a well-liked Professor of Marketing at The University of Regina. Simultaneously, John managed his own market research firm and ventured into various entrepreneurial endeavors, including owning a Regina Magicuts franchise.

Even in his later years, the energetic John remained active and passionate about hockey, participating in an Old-Timer’s league. His dedication to the sport extended to representing Canada in Eastern Europe, where he and his team faced off against the former Czech Olympic hockey team. John and Carole also reveled in their summers golfing in Whitefish, Montana, as well as their winters spent in Mexico and Palm Springs.

Above all, John cherished his role as a devoted father and loving “Bapa” to his grandchildren, actively participating in their wide range of interests. A lifelong dog lover, he would always have time for a cuddle or a nap in the company of his furry friends. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to John’s close friends, Bob and Leah McDonald, and Jack Ito, for their unwavering support throughout the journey.

A Celebration of Life to commemorate John will be held at the Royal Regina Golf Club, 5401-11 Avenue, Regina, SK on Friday, September 29, 2023. The event, a Come and Go Gathering, will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory to Parkinson’s research or a charity of choice. Online condolences can be shared at http://www.speersfuneralchapel.com.