Skip to content

John Anthony Staniforth


Oct 14th -1943 to March 25th 2014


Loving Husband of 43 years to Elspet Maxwell, nee Smith. Father to two grown sons, Iain and Angus Staniforth. Best grandfather ever to Rebecca, Hannah, Alex, Lachlan and Finlay. John passed away suddenly Tuesday evening, in the comfort of his home, with his family by his side. He was 70 years old.


Born on Oct 14th 1943, born in Sheffield England, John was the third born in a family of five children. Immigrating to Canada in 1967. John worked in health care before becoming a teacher in 1965. He retired from teaching in 2001, giving 36 years of service.


John was a very educated man and had a passion for Geography and European History. He received his Master’s Degree in these fields. He loved to read, walk and garden. John was also a budding artist who painted and sketched with great talent. He had a great gift for conversation. John could and would talk to everyone! He made many friends along the way; we will all miss his conversational talents.

John was an active member of the Departure bay Baptist church. He also danced with his wife in a Scottish country dancing group in both Revelstoke and Nanaimo.


A Memorial Service to be held on Wednesday April 2nd at 2:00pm. Please join with family and friends at the Departure Bay Baptist church, located at 3910 Departure Bay RD, in Nanaimo BC. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John to the YWAM organization to support a cause close to his heart. All donations can be made at the Church.