Obituary of John Patrick Mackan

John fought his battle with cancer courageously, but it took his life on Sunday, August 23, 2015, at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie. He was the cherished and loved husband of Helga Pinkal, and loving father of Patrick (Denise Neal), Michael (Maria), and Melanie, and the proud grandfather of Ailin. John was a beloved son of Rita (Foley) Mackan of Burlington and the late Gordon Mackan, Sr. He is survived by siblings Gordon Jr. (Deanna), Brenda Lynn Young (Ron), Sharron Taylor (Dave), William (Alison), Michael (Patricia), Sheridan (Victoria), Kevin (Glenna), Mark (Tracy) and Gregory (Suzanne). Very special thanks go to all his family members and to the many neighbours and friends who have assisted John and Helga in the past nine months. A special mention goes to the heroes at the Royal Victoria who did everything they could to help John and Helga in the battle with his cancer. In keeping with John’s request, following cremation, a Celebration of His Life will be held at the Ferndale Banquet Hall, 24 Ferndale Industrial Drive, Barrie, on Sunday November 1st from 1:30-4:30pm. A time for sharing memories will be held at 2:30pm. John had achieved over 150 Canadian Blood Services donations. The family encourages those who are able, to continue his legacy of blood donation, in addition, organ donation. As an expression of sympathy, monetary donations in memory of John may be made to Hospice Huronia, Penetanguishene, through the COLDWATER FUNERAL HOME, Coldwater (705-686 3344 or 1-888-645-5485).