“To make a long story short,” John Foley passed away on August 25, 2023, surrounded by his family at home at the age of 72 (or 39 US as he would often say). A fighter right until the end, the man who said it was his job to “sell Montréal” will also call it his final resting place.
John leaves behind his wife, Virginia; children, Sophia (Joseph) and Matthew (Charlye); two brothers, Brian and Francis; cherished nieces and nephews; and a few undrunk O’Keefe’s, for which he was an unofficial spokesman. He is now off to once again see his parents, Peggy and Frank; his eldest brother, Donald; and his many beloved pets.
John had two careers really: He was a bus driver for STM as well as a renowned city tour guide. He knew every facet of Montréal, and it seemed as though this was a place “where everybody knew his name.” When not working, John would cook up BBQ in the backyard while chatting to his best friend, Shaun, on the other side of the fence. They’d toast to one another while the pork chops became a fine line between overdone and leather. On the rare weekend he had off, John could be seen with his good friends, Bill and Gerry, trying their luck on the green and then celebrating at the 19th hole. In fact, he wouldn’t miss this opportunity to say “Golf is like life… you strive for the green, but end up in the hole.”
We will miss you, and those classic dad jokes.
Those wishing to share happy memories and celebrate John’s life are invited to the Brasserie La Résidence (the Rez), 4705 blvd Saint-Jean, on September 2, 2023 from 1-4pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your local animal welfare organization in his honour.
Donna Grant
August 26, 2023 at 8:10 pmMy sincerest condolences to Virginia and the family . My prayers are with you at this difficult time .
James
August 27, 2023 at 7:28 amSad news and condolences to Virginia, Sophia and family. I have good memories ofJohn!
Anne-Marie Smith
August 27, 2023 at 12:21 pmMy deepest sympathies Sophia. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Shannon Olson
August 27, 2023 at 12:48 pmOur thoughts, prayers, and love are with you all as you go through this difficult time. We are so sorry to hear of your father’s passing and are sending our deepest condolences.
Michel (Coco) Paquet
August 27, 2023 at 1:09 pmMy Sympathies to The Family
RIP John
Bernie
August 27, 2023 at 1:36 pmRIP Big Guy / Johnny
Darron and Julann
August 27, 2023 at 7:04 pmOur deepest condolences Matt, Charlye, Virginia, Sophia, and Joseph. You are in our thoughts. Love Darron and Julann
Rose Marie MacArthur
August 27, 2023 at 9:29 pmCondolences so sad to read this. Hugs
Leslie Bass
August 28, 2023 at 10:58 amMy sincere condolences to you and your family . May his memory be a blessing .
Mike,Vivian
August 28, 2023 at 11:57 amRIP my dear friend, Vivian Mike.
Mike Shlien
August 28, 2023 at 11:58 amRIP my dear friend, Vivian Mike.
Linda Clark, daughter of Albert Clark cousin of John.
August 28, 2023 at 7:32 pmMy deepest condolences to the family.
Fred Jeffers
August 29, 2023 at 10:22 amSincerest condolences to you, Sophia, and your family. Hoping you are sharing some great memories as you go through this difficult time together.
RALPH NAHAS
September 2, 2023 at 10:33 pmGreat guy will never be forgotten
Beth Campbell
September 5, 2023 at 8:13 amI’m very sorry for your loss.