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John Nicholas Strong

  
 
 

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  Please take a minute to post a John Strong Story or memory!  
     
 

“For those of us who knew him a little bit, do yourselves a favour and ask someone who knew him well to tell you a story about him. There’s a million of them. And for those of us who knew him well, do yourselves a favour and tell those stories. There’s a million of them.”

 

Share a John Strong smile today... we would love to hear your story.

The Strong Siblings

  
Comments & Stories posted by guests
TO THE STONGS
I WILL NEVER FOR GET JOHN WAS
A GOOD FRIEND TO ME AND AND I HAD
A GOOD TIME WITH JOHN IN BILLY
BISHOP I HOPE YOU ALL DOING
WILL TAKE CARE LOVE YOUR FRIEND
AMY O,BRIEN PS MARY LOU AND TOM
O, BRIEN AND THE OBRIEN FAMILY WELL NEVER FOR GET JOHN AND HIS FAMILY AMY
GET JOHN AND HIS FAMILY AMY OBRIEN
Posted By: AMY O,BRIEN 2008-10-29
 
I almost forgot, John's volleyball windmill serve. He was very proud of this and practiced it for hours. He got quite good at it, but the best part was the noise he would bellow upon impact. It went something like this: "OOOOOOOHHHHWWWWEEEEEEE!!!!!" If you've heard it you know what I'm talking about.

Piece
Posted By: Peter Geary 2008-10-13
 

I went to good old St. Wilfrid (sadly demolished) with John from kindergarten to grade 8. He was without a doubt one of my best friends when I was a kid. We went to different high schools so I didn’t know John during those years. But we both went to the U of W and we would run into each other now and then and reminisce about funny stories from our youth. We shared a couple of classes in university and one day he passed me a note that he entitled “Wilfrid Trivia.” He actually wrote out several multiple choice questions based on our grade school days. I couldn’t help myself and was laughing out loud at some of things he wrote. We passed the note back and forth several times and pretty much created a scene, but we didn’t care. The note was so funny that I kept it in my wallet for several years and I still have it to this day. I think of John often and I have compiled a list of my favourite memories:

10) I remember we used to set up his hockey net at the end of the drive way on Watson and would wait for cars to go by. We would then take slap shots at the net, but really we were trying to hit passing cars. We always used tennis balls so it was pretty harmless and I think we only hit a car a couple of times out of the hundreds of times we tried, but one time we connected and a car stopped. We ran into the backyard and hid. I remember being scared, but John wasn’t scared at all, he was laughing the whole time.

9) I remember the ice rink in the Strong’s backyard. I was never into hockey and didn’t have skates, but John made sure that I had a pair. I think the skates that he gave me were made in the early 60’s, but I didn’t care. John helped me lace them on and even though I couldn’t skate very well, I remember distinctly that he never made fun of me. We had a blast.

8) I remember he introduced me to tobogganing with inner tubes. I forget where this took place, but it was a lot of fun.

7) I remember when we went away to Grand Bend for the weekend. From as early as grade 1, John always talked about Grand Bend like it was a magical place and after experiencing it through his eyes, in many ways, it was. He loved J. Dee’s, the beach and the cottage. I remember I made the mistake of waking up his dad at 7 AM by smashing pool balls around the billiard table. His dad teased me about this for a whole year, but it was all in fun. John’s mom wasn’t impressed with me because I didn’t bring my own towel. She was always very nice to me.

6) I remember running the juice room with John at school in grade 8. We were the envy of all the other kids. If the juice went bad, we got to drink it (or so we told ourselves) so we would leave some juice unrefrigerated everyday. Being the good Catholic boys that we were, we figured that if it went bad and then we drank it, it wasn’t really stealing. His favourite was fruit punch. We were allowed to leave class early before lunch to get ready for the juice crowd. Initially we were allowed to leave 5 minutes early, but John kept on convincing our teacher that we needed more time to get ready. By the end of the year we were getting out at least 20 minutes early. Awesome.
5) I remember that we had this one teacher who was actually friends with one of John’s sisters. I think John had met her a few times outside of school and because of this he felt a little too comfortable around her. One time in class he crossed the line and was unintentionally a little bit rude to her. She yelled at him and told him to “Get off his high horse.” We had never heard this expression (John included) and thought it was hilarious. It became a big inside joke for the rest of the year. From that point on if any of your buddies was being a jerk you told him to “Get off his high horse.”

4) I remember John used to sign things “Piece, Bro” He knew that he was using the wrong version of “peace” and most kids didn’t notice or get it, but I did and thought it was hilarious.

3) I remember that he was a huge Rick Vaive fan

2) I remember that he introduced me to Run DMC

1) I remember when I was in about 3rd year university that I bumped into John on a Saturday night at Patrick O’Ryan’s Pub. I was with my group of friends and he was with his, but when we saw each other we stopped and talked for at least half an hour. I don’t really remember what we talked about but I do know that after we said our goodbyes I remember thinking to myself what a cool guy. John was a cool guy.


Posted By: Peter Geary 2008-10-13
 
If there is one thing that I can say I remember most about John, it would be his sense of family.

We went to elementary school together, so my memories of him are from long ago, but not forgotten. I can't remember exactly what grade it was but still young enough that we had show and tell, and he brought in baby pictures. I remember being outside at recess and everyone was fascinated with him for having brought baby pictures. And most of all, they just weren't any pictures, or ones of him, they were of his nieces/nephews. Boy were we all confused, when he was trying to explain how someone at the young age we were, was already an uncle. Nonetheless, he carried those pictures with pride, and shared his love for his family through the pictures.

It is also amazing to me how he came from such a big family and yet was so well rounded. Being the 9th of 10 children, I imagine that you get your fair share of hand-me-downs and the like, and would be compelled to do anything to get your parents attention. However, there was no sense of that with John. It didn't seem to phase him. In fact, at any given moment he was willing to share just how many children were in his family and who they all were. There was no denying he was thrilled with his place in line and not bothered at all.

And it was no wonder he was so likable, as he was a great extension of his parents. In about grade 7, the whole class and a few parents and teachers were invited up to Grand Bend and stay for the day at the Strong family cabin. And he was more than willing to show everyone how the family lived at the cabin. The fascination with the lazy susan which the entire family would eat, and his showing everyone the techniques needed to play pool, were what seems to stand out most. Oh yeah, and the ice cream shop!

There was a time in elementary school where I will admit I had a crush on John. And from reading all the wonderful things people had to say about John from this website, I think it's safe to say, that I was probably not alone.

Although I never knew John as an adult, I had heard about him on occasion, because of his talents from the stage in high school, and the fact that we both worked at TBQ's (unfortunately, not simultaneously).

So even though we never connected past elementary school, I can remember exactly where I was, when I heard of John's passing. And at that time, I had just had my first child only nine months prior, and it made me sad to think that he was never going to be able to share in that sort of life experience. However, after reading all these wonderful stories about John as an adult, I now understand that even without having his own children, he did have that kind of experience, he had his family. And he loved them all!

I'm sorry to all of you for your losses. As I heard of Maureen too, but did not know her. Regardless, no parent or sibling should have to endure the loss of one child/sibling let alone two. My thoughts are with you all!
Posted By: Kate Kristo 2008-10-02
 


~~It's so nice to see all of the RMHA recipient's of the John Strong Memorial Award!

Gone...yet not forgotten Thinking of You today John.
Posted By: Lee Dowling and Family 2008-10-02
 
I've been thinking about John a lot this week and missing him too. The last time I spent time with John was 4 days before he passed. We had dinner in Toronto with John A. I remember hugging him before saying goodbye. I'm so glad I did. Love you John. Love, Colleen
Posted By: Colleen 2008-10-01
 
Today is a big day for all of us. Of course we miss John dearly and will always have memories of what a fun, loving person he was. I will always remember the last outing I had with my little brother to the Casino in the USA. He was such a nut at the Wheel of Fortune I can still play the evening out in my head and his craziness sitting in front of the machine. Now when I see anything to do with the game I can relive the memory. Missing John Strong
Posted By: Catherine 2008-10-01
 

During lunch in high school, John would always sneak up on me when I was looking for something in my locker, grab me by the bicep, spin me around, get right in my face and ask in a breathy voice if I wanted some Coooool Ranch Doritos. He had usually just finished eating them.

He used to also pick me up and toss me like a bag of trash off the stage in drama class at least once a week as we perfected our Batman skit. He of course played the Bat.

John was an amazing person and the fact that he's gone still doesn't compute in my head. He was a good friend and one of the funniest guys I've ever known. I still think about him often. Mr. Strong has left a lasting impression . . .

My regards to the Strong family. This website is great by the way, and I came upon it by chance. On my way to school this morning I saw a tall guy with dark hair wearing a black leather jacket that reminded me of John. Later, I googled his name on a whim, and found this site. It was fantastic to see all those photos.

Cheers
Posted By: Matt Leslie 2007-11-09
 
I worked with John for a short period of time at T.B.Q.s Other place and in that short period of time John became a good friend and over the last while I find myself thinking of John and the positive influence he had on thos e around him, he had a smile and sense of humour few have,John is always in my prayers.
Posted By: Rob Kelly 2007-10-21
 
We had a little John Strong day here in Connecticut on Sunday Connor, Christopher and I. Bbq'd steak and criss cross potatoes thats it nothing green, orange or yellow. Yesterday Monday the 1st Connor had show and tell at his class. He brought in the snow globe he made with Johns pictures inside. He told his class about his wonderful Uncle John. We miss you both so very much.
Posted By: John A 2007-10-02
 
A very hard day today. Missing John lots.

There is so much that we have learned from the loss of John and Moe. Most importantly being that you can never make enough memories or take enough photos of your loved ones. We are searching for new photos of John to update our collection. If you have come across any new digital/video or hard copy images please contact us by email (avenuediner@hotmail.com) we would love to get copies.
Thanks
Posted By: Catherine 2007-10-01
 
A very hard day today. We miss John very much.
If there is anything we have learned from our loss of John and Moe, it is to take lots of photos and share many memories with your loved ones, you just never know. The photos especially are hard to find in situations like this. We are searching for new photos of John if anyone has come across any hard copies or electronic images/videos of John please contact us by email. avenuediner@hotmail.com. We would love to get copies to add to our collections. Thank You
Posted By: Catherine 2007-10-01
 
Thanks, Catherine, for hosting our "John Strong Day" yesterday. The food was fabulous. Thanks for the photos too - They help us remember all the great times we shared with John. We all miss him much!!!!
Posted By: Colleen, Sister 2007-10-01
 
"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." e.e. cummings Miss your laugh today John! Think of you often!
Posted By: The Dowlings 2007-10-01
 
I came across your CD of favorite music and played it in the kitchen the other day. The kids and I danced all around the kitchen jamming to Johnny Denver....hehehe. Just thinking about you.
Posted By: Lisa, cousin 2007-10-01
 
First thing in the wee hours of the morning when the children awake, we open the front room shutters to greet the day and check the impending weather situation. On the morning of Georgia's first birthday, the girls and I looked out to find a great, big, bright, colorful rainbow right in front of us. Fana said: "It must be a birthday present from heaven from John and Maureen." Georgia says thank-you. It was the best birthday ever.
Posted By: Christina, sister 2007-09-16
 
Just after valentines day this year, Lucca and Matteo had a visit from their cousins Fana, Cecilia and Georgia. They were all sitting around our table talking. Fana knew that she was going to stop at the cemetary on the way out of town and was talking about this when Lucca blurted out "My uncle John died. He is an angel. He flies around shooting people in the butt with an arrow!"
I laughed so hard...and told him, "if you only knew uncle john, he would be doing just that!"
Posted By: Carolyn 2007-02-21
 

In my little way, I hope this helps.
Posted By: Khalil 2007-02-18
 
I came across a picture John had signed in the guestbook from our wedding Sept 6, 1997. I have posted it in the "The Brother & Son" area.
Posted By: Ray 2007-01-15
 
Thinking of you John!
Posted By: The Dowlings 2006-10-19
 
Thinking of my cousin today. We miss you very much.
Posted By: Renee and John Gursoy 2006-10-01
 
What the heart has once owned and had, it shall never lose.
—Henry Ward Beecher

I can picture John today, driving his fancy sport car, cruising, big white smile and seat pushed sooo far back he is almost horizontal (possibly to cover the heap of garbage on the back seat floor), one hand on the wheel, very chatty, and the pack of gum he miraclously pulls from somewhere within the pile. I'm missing my brother John today, too.
Posted By: Catherine 2006-10-01
 
My thoughts are always with Johns family and loved ones, wished him a Happy Birthday yesterday.
Posted By: Sharon Korman 2006-06-01
 
Miss you much little brother. Reading your stories still makes me laugh. Happy birthday!!!!!
Posted By: Colleen 2006-06-01
 
Happy 29th Birthday Johnny! I miss you every day!
Posted By: Jennifer 2006-05-31
 
'HAM BURG HELPER ' DAY.
Posted By: bARRY 2006-05-31
 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY LITTLE BROTHER TODAY!

Posted By: CATHERINE 2006-05-31
 
Very good site, congratulations!
Posted By: invicta 2006-04-13
 
You have done a wonderful job with this website. I remember John as one of the most upbeat children that I ever had the good fortune of teaching. He was a great student and I knew that if things were down in the class I could count on John to liven things up. It seems that this was the norm for all of his too short life. It was a pleasure having him in my class and I will never forget him or that beautiful smile !
Posted By: Darlene Lauzon (Mme. G.)Giambattista 2006-04-03
 
I came upon this web site researching something else. I am glad I did. It is a wonderfully made site. Since I only met John a couple of times when he was a child, I did not know him. After viewing this page, with its great detail. My wife (Olive) and I feel that we know John and the great man he had become. As a son,brother,god father and friend he left a positive mark and joyful smile on everyone who came across his path. As shown on this web page. Condolences from my family to all of John's friends and the Strong family.
Posted By: Dave Romanchuk 2006-02-15
 
I came across the following bit of John's correspondence in an email trail from June 2003...the subject is preparations for a party at the HW clubhouse, dad's 70th B-day party I believe:

"I quit too, damn it.

MA you have my bank card, take what money you need as long as it doesn't exceed $9.81. Joking, take what you need, get a head count, roast 1 piece of meat on the BBQ, i'll take care of that, we can do lobsters if we have a head count and the $$, corn on the cob, potato salad, yucca crusted alaskan halibut, with smoked chipotle cous cous, roasted peruvian peppers sauces and smoked tomato drizzle-Tom you take care of that one. I'll take care of cooking the food, someone needs to get it, maybe roast a whole porkloin and a striploin, someone give me head..count.
John Strong"
Posted By: Ray Strong 2006-01-23
 
When i think of John, a million images flash in my head like one long, funny, slide show. Instead of a story, here are only some of the many things that i think of or remind me of him, and make me smile.

-Giant dunkachinos (humanly impossible to drink, unless you were john strong).
-A saturday afternoon listening to john and frank scratching instant lottery tickets, instead of working. And each time hearing them yell "oooh, so close. quick bro go get another" while they happily lost more and more money.
-Bro, bro, bro, bro, bro (john making fun of michael)
-Sharing a box of Hamburger Helper and fruity iced tea for lunch, then grumbling afterwards how tired and full we felt. Then doing it again the next day.
-From the bakery in the basement, hearing John sing Pearl Jam at the top of his lungs as if he were Eddie himself.
-From the bakery, hearing John yell my name at the top of his lungs, instead of using the intercom sitting right next to him.
-Knowing that no matter what present Conner or Christopher got for there birthday, the one John got them would be the biggest.
-Seeing John and Jamie stuff handfulls of brownies into their mouths then spitting them out onto the scale to see who's wheighed the most.
-Watching John get the kitchen staff to laugh at his jokes even though they didn't speak a work of Engish.

I think what i miss the most about John is the way he could turn a potentially ordinary moment into a happy memory.

miss him lots.
Posted By: Jennifer Young 2005-10-07
 
My thoughts are with all of you this weekend!
Posted By: sharon korman 2005-09-30
 
I haven't been on this site until today and it is beautiful...the story I want to share is the one I always go to when I'm remembering John. I was hanging out at the Anstis house in CT and while John and Jamie were occupied with something in a different room I slyly hid a fart machine under the chair in which John had been sitting. The fart machine was remote controlled and when they both re-entered and conversation had resumed I pushed the button. A very loud and hilarious noise came from under his chair and John and Jamie just looked at eachother both embarrased for the other. I continued to press the button every once in a while which led to lots of laughter. When I finally unveiled the fart machine John just looked at Jamie and said "man I was feeling really bad for you. I was thinking god he's having real issues over there poor guy."
I guess I'll always feel grateful for having been allowed to be goofy.
Posted By: Elisa 2005-09-02
 
I visit this site often. I would like to comment on the golf tournament website. I really love the golf ball with John's name on it. What a great design. To the designers keep up the good work. I would really love to come to Connecticut, and be there for the tournament, but it is not possible for me to do so. I often think of John, alot of memories seem to bring me back to summers in Grand Bend. I look forward too sharing more stories with family and friends when we all remember John, on October 1st.
Posted By: Renee Gursoy 2005-08-25
 
ON MONDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 2005
THE FIRST JOHN STRONG ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT WILL BE HELD AT THE PRESTIGIOUS CONNECTICUT GOLF CLUB IN EASTON CONNECTICUT.

THIS TOURNAMENT IS PRESENTED BY BARCELONA RESTAURANT AND IS TO BENEFIT THE JOHN STRONG FOUNDATION. IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR ARE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING THIS TOURNAMENT AND/OR DINNER PLEASE CONTACT BARCELONA RESTAURANT AT (203) 899-0088 OR JOHN ANSTIS AT (203) 247-2091

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE.
PLEASE CONTACT MATT AT (203) 650-2981.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WILL BE POSTED ON THIS SITE IN THE COMING WEEKS. THANK YOU.
Posted By: CATHERINE KLASIOS 2005-08-16
 
I am honored to say I am a Strong family member...even if it is by marriage. Having grown up in a small (one sibling) but close knit family, it was a bit intimidating to find out that my date (now husband) was one of 10 children.

I remember so vividly meeting each family member and how they each had a special way of taking me into the family. John, of course, had a joke to tell, a smile to share and laughter to give. When Ray and I got married we asked John to act as our master of ceremonies...he was the perfect choice.

When our first child was born (Spencer is now 6) we asked John to be Godfather. Again...a perfect choice.

And when our second child was born, (Alexis is going on 4) I started to comment as she grew older how much she reminded me of John. She loves the limelight, is a bit of an actress (as Grampie (Barry) will attest to) and simply has a way about her that makes me always think of John.

I have wanted to post a comment for some time but either could not work up the courage to try and find the right words or couldn't bring myself to write anything because that would mean taking a step in dealing with the loss of John.

This weekend Ray and I were so happy to have so many of the family spend the weekend with us. With Moe up visiting we had a family weekend that was so much fun. Others have made comments about how they always felt like the 11th child and I understand how they feel. I was welcomed into the family with open arms and as a family member I value the time we spend together and miss John especially at these times.

John had an impact on my life...and the depth of it may still be unknown at this stage, but I do know that he was a cornerstone in every milestone of my life as a Strong.


Posted By: Sherri (favourite sister-in-law)...ok ...only sister-in-law! 2005-07-04
 
John was the greatest"hockey Card Trader" in the world, quote " I can make millions buying and selling hockey cards" my reply "you are nuts".And so each week John would go to the card shows coming home with great treasure troves of hockey cards to be examined and filed. " you are nuts"
One weekend he worked on all to drive him to the Grand Bend Flea Market,uncle Jim weaken and took him( John getting him to pay the parking).Again buying and selling his cards, that evening as he studied each card he broke out a great smile,eyes shining and proudly showed the card that would bring in millions!My reply you are nuts! The next week he sold that card for 750.00 and as he waved the cash under my nose I took it from him and put it in his bank account! We have two cases of hockey cards ,valued by John, worth MILLIONS!
Posted By: Dad 2005-06-29
 
Still viewing the site, reading cherished memories shared by loved ones. Always thinking of John who I never met yet continue to admire his free spirit and kind heart, and always smile when I listen to Green Day songs. No matter how much time passes, you are still on my mind and in my heart, and I wish for you all to have your days that bring smiles, outweigh those that bring tears.

Posted By: sharon korman 2005-06-23
 
Remembering John's competitive edge...
     I remember witnessing a friendly game of Monopoly between John and I believe it was Uncle Jim. Persistent, unrelenting and refusing to accept defeat or even worse - a draw, the game continued into the night until the two agreed to leave the board with hand-written warning notes attached and finish the following day. I don't recall who won the game but I do remember how animated and entertaining it was to watch them play. I am sure if we were to ask John today who won, he would either pull back his sleeves to flex his biceps and gloat the win or, rather than admit defeat, he would spin a story of how he graciously threw the game in Jim's favor. Just a friendly board game at the cottage on Hill Street in Grand Bend.
     I remember one cold, winter day with "the boys" - John and Tom -
left in my care. And I sent them out to play on the backyard ice rink unaware that the ice was too soft to skate on. Before too long, they were back inside with bright, red blood streaming down the face from a cut over the eye made by a mysterious flying chunk of ice during a snowball fight. Boys will be boys. After a quick call to uncle Hank at home, we drove over and interrupted his wood carving for an assessment to determine if stitches were necessary. Then hurried back home - before the parental units returned. Just a friendly game of brotherly one-on-one hockey in the backyard in Windsor.
     I remember many warmer days walking "the boys" down Watson Avenue to the local corner hardware store for glass for the basement carport window. I remember the crinkling of the brown wrapping and worrying as I carried it - hoping it wouldn't cut through. I laugh now realizing that we never once took out a tape measure and never waited for the glass to be cut. Somehow, the guys at the store knew enough to have it ready on hand for the neighbourhood, after-school, in-the-driveway ball hockey players. I remember squeezing the putty to soften it and pressing it against the glass in the frame and game on - all before dad got home from work. We changed the glass so often it surely must have been the cleanest window on the house.
Posted By: Christina, sister 2005-06-17
 
The second-to-last time I saw John was at Barcelona in Norwalk where I was having dinner with a few close friends on my 24th birthday. (John and I used to work at Habana together many years ago which is where I met him.) I was having a small case of the 'birthday blues' that night but was nevertheless happy to be enjoying a delicious meal with friends. After we had finished, John surprised me by coming out of the kitchen with a warm chocolate cake and candle to sing 'Happy Birthday'. I was unaware he was even in the kitchen that night and his thoughtfulness put a big smile on my face. I would now like to return the favor by wishing a 'Happy Birthday' to him.

I have since had the great pleasure of getting to know John's brother, Tom, who has brought much joy to the lives of my friends and I. Thank you to the Strong family for raising such brilliant boys.

Posted By: Aubrey 2005-06-10
 
Happy Birthday John, Miss you much!
Posted By: Colleen 2005-06-01
 
John came up to see us just a couple days before he passed away. Shortly before he was due to arrive he called from the road looking to clarify directions. He asked “Do you have any Rye?” Even before I could answer he remembered that he was carrying some with him. When John arrived he had in hand a plastic bag containing a huge 60 oz’er of CC and about 12 cans of Canada dry. I remember laughing at this since this was apparently how he was traveling…complete with mix…leaving nothing to chance. The 4 of us; Sherri, John, John Anstis and myself sat down and enjoyed our drinks while the kids bounced off the walls in the sheer excitement of uncle John and uncle John John’s visit.

When John left that evening he insisted on leaving me the bottle which was still three quarters full. I offered to pay him for it since it was basically still full and must have cost a fortune…but he wouldn’t hear of it. John in his usual selfless way knew that I would appreciate having it and that was good enough.

I now keep this special bottle tucked away at the back of the liquor cupboard saving it for special occasions, like tonight, John’s Birthday.

He touched so many people during his short life. I think the fact that 150 people visited this website today alone, on his birthday is testament to this. Over the last 8 months there have been thousands of visitors from all over the world (Canada, USA, New Zealand, Saint Lucia, France, Great Britain, Italy, Oman, Netherlands, Lithuania, Germany, Australia, Belgium and Japan). Many of you have taken the time to post memories of John and offered kind words of support. Thank you.

At bedtime tonight, Alexis my 3yr old insisted on singing happy birthday to uncle John…the kids miss him so very much…as we all do.
Posted By: Ray Strong 2005-05-31
 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE BROTHER!
We are missing you today, especially today.

Posted By: Catherine 2005-05-31
 
Thank you so much for this beautiful website!!!I was unable to make it to the funeral and this gave me the opportunity to share in the wonderful tribute to Strong's (as Mr. Pitre called him) life. I only knew him a bit, but his personality was one that definately made me feel like I had known him for years. I wish that I had gotten to know him better! The thing I most vividly remember about him was when he was in the skit "If Men Played Cards as Women". It was truly one of the funniest things I have ever seen!! I will never forget John! Please keep sharing the stories that you have of John...they are great, just as he was.
Posted By: Tricia Clarke (an OAC Drama classmate) 2005-05-31
 
I never met John, but through your mesmerizing tribute I wish I had. I read the Windsor Star and found his web site. I would just like to say that in order to have such a wonderful person you need a group of amazing people and with what I saw you are all amazing! God Bless!
Posted By: Guest 2005-05-31
 
The report by the coroner's office;
The official cause of John's passing was acute myocarditis (likely viral).This is an inflammation of the heart, for more information a site can be found @http:/www.medicinenet.com/myocarditis/article.htm
Posted By: Barry Strong 2004-11-28
 
Ping Pong
For all of you that do not know here is a short memory I have of John and the ping-pong table. Now you must know John’s talent for “slinging the talk”. Here is how it always went in the house when the two John’s wanted to go to do some thing together. (i.e. golf). John S would start by trying to convince me that JA needed to get out and golf. Now JA would deny the need, make excuses that he was tired, wanted to stay home, maybe he shouldn’t. I would have to listen to all this between them, then some how it would turn out that JA & JS would be going out that day golfing. Listening to them time after time. I eventually would just listen and laugh at this rehearsed scene. Oh, and always as they were leaving they would say to not worry about dinner they would take care of it when we got back. (Just a little icing on the cake)
One morning JS had this idea that he needed a ping-pong table. He was frequently playing the game after work at the local bar Mr. P’s. So as you can imagine I had to listen to the two John’s talk of the need for this ping pong table and that they were going to go LOOK at them. So off they go to Cosco and return with the table which my husband paid half. Somehow JS convinced him that we need one. JS even said to me that the kids would love it…it will be in the family for years…last forever...etc.etc. Now this ping-pong table did get a lot of use. Jamie, JA, JS and anyone visiting would often compete out in our driveway. One summer night as I was sleeping I kept hearing this ping sound. I got up and went and looked out the window at the driveway. There were the John’s and Jamie playing ping-pong. They had rigged the ladder with a spotlight from the garage and were playing ping-pong at 3 AM! This sound became a constant at night around our house. There was one night it was a bit louder then normal so I thought the window was open or something because it did not seem right. I drifted back to sleep. The next morning I was going down the stairs to the kitchen and in our “playroom/living room” was a very large ping-pong table. I guess it rained that night in the middle of an important game and it got rolled inside the house. (As the story goes)
As of today, the ping-pong table lives in our garage in pieces and will be retiring to the road for garbage pick up…just incase anyone is in need of one.
Posted By: Maureen Anstis 2005-05-20
 
It has been very difficult to sit myself down at the computer to write down some thoughts about John. Not a day goes by that I don't think about him, talk to someone about him or just curse him for not being here. He was, is such a good friend & brother of my spirit. Working in the same business, living in the same house, watching the boys grow & standing beside Maureen, it was so easy to share the ups & downs. As we all do, I miss him so very much.
Twice in the last couple of weeks people that used to work with John & I at Habana & Ocean Drive have stopped by to say hello. Both have asked if they could pop their head into the kitchen and say hello to John. The shock & disbelief that passes over their eyes when I tell them John passed away is very sad to see. It reminds me poignantly of my own shock & disbelief just a few short months ago.
I had a dream about him last week. It was so simple & random but very powerful to me, as it was so thoroughly John. Myself and someone else (I think it was Jamie) were driving slowly in this car down a very crowded street. I was in the passenger seat just watching all the people walk by on a very crowded sidewalk. Suddenly John pops his head out of the crowd with this huge happy & mischievous smile on his face & keeps on walking by. I turned to follow him in the crowd but it was to late, he was gone. That smile and the laughing eyes were perfectly he. It was nice to see him. I wish it could have been longer.
I guess I don't have one particular story to share with you about John. More just what a wonderful man he was. He would of done anything for Maureen & the boys - he was so angry that Moe was sick he could barely speak about it. He meant so much to so many different people from so many different backgrounds.
At Habana we have a managers logbook to record every days events. On October 1st, 2004 there is a single entry written by the kitchen staff "A great man has fallen. He will be missed."

Indeed.
Posted By: John Anstis 2005-05-04
 
I don't know about you, but I keep thinking John will call or be coming for his visit very soon. Then I think about it and remember, and I feel he's never really left. At least I know he hasn't gone far.

I was reminded of that when a large clan of siblings, nieces and nephews were in the basement last week playing. There was certainly no one up stairs, yet we could definitely hear someone walking around pretty heavy footed. We both ran to the bottom of the steps and said to each other "who's upstairs"? Standing there for minutes and listening wide eyed. We had not been talking about John that day at all, until we both looked at each other and said "it's John" as if it was a normal everyday thought. It's funny how my sister just automatically thought it was him, as I did. I guess I am not the only one who feels him around constantly. I almost felt like yelling "hey, John get down here and stop trying to scare us" but I knew he was already there with us.

My children have a guardian angel and his name is John (we're not sure if Uncle John has angel wings or not). He watches over my boys and when we say a prayer we pray to Jesus and we pray to Uncle John to talk to God and put in a good word for us, and we know he will. They're probably very tight John and God. I can see them sitting side by side and John with his arm over God's shoulder. John with that grin, that big white smile, saying hey, look at me now!

It's pretty easy to talk to John, I feel he is around. It actually makes it easier to deal with missing him. I feel him in all the silly things that go on during my day. "Oh, it's just John looking for another laugh". It's almost like he's playing tricks on us, to remind us not to forget that he's around.

Now, what about at Easter when I hid a few eggs with notes inside them for the kids to find the trail to their basket. Well, one of the eggs was missing by morning, I witnessed it myself, make no mistake about it. It was gone and the trail was broken and I knew it was John. "Good one little brother".

I could feel him just soaking up the glory the weekend of his hockey memorial trophy dinner presentation. He's just loving that.

As time passes and we miss him more. Keep talking about him, keep telling his stories. It really makes it so muuuuch easier. He really would not want us to be sad, he is in a pretty cool place really, a much better place than us I bet. We have to remember to share his stories. I miss the funny things he used to do and hearing about them, and I don't know the half of what went on in the USA. So, I'm asking his buddies to share a few more thoughts... check their desk drawers for photos, memories to share. I'm looking to keep celebrating his life, and I know he's over my shoulder now saying "I'm really liking this John Strong website thing... more please".
Posted By: Catherine 2005-04-29
 
A brother is so many things. Friend, confidant, entertainer, entertainment, playmate, good listener, fun to be with.... John was all these things and more. You smiled in anticipation when you knew he was coming over; you smiled when you first saw him; you smiled the whole time you were with him; you smiled when he left and for a long time after. Then your cheeks would hurt from smiling. He always made you feel good to be around. He made everything funnier. He was always happy and smiling and a pleasure to be around.
John was the king of one-liners. So quick-witted. He could walk in a room and change the mood with one line. He took the seriousness out of any situation. He would fall easily into any role and play the part so well.
One of many funny moments from years past that I remember...was trying to jog. John offered to come along for encouragement. It wasn't enough for him to jog circles around me, no, John had to jog backwards in front of me shouting military-style commands. I just couldn't laugh and run at the same time - my sides hurt too much.
Another incident from childhood....I remember him walking past me in the kitchen just as I was about to turn over a grilled cheese on the stove. He gave my elbow just enough of an extra lift to send the sandwich flying through the room. He then danced around it, as it lay on the floor, shooting at it with invisible pistols. And calmly - as if nothing happened - he picked it up, dusted it off and place it ever so gently, back into the frying pan and walked away smiling.
I have so many wonderful memories of John - everything from sitting in a cold arena watching him play hockey to sitting in a theater proudly watching him on stage in a play or as an altar boy in church.
He was just entertaining to watch because he made everything a show with his expressions and dramatic flair - cooking, playing guitar, driving, playing golf, scooping ice cream, playing scrabble, playing cards, birthdays, holidays, on the floor crawling around with his nephews and nieces, playing badminton or volleyball or any board game or card game.
Of course, at the end of any game, he would stand up with his chest puffed out and a big, goofy grin and proudly pull the ace from his sleeve, waving it around asking: Is this what you were looking for? Or, he would triumphantly slam his cards down with a winning hand and smile and laugh. He was "the best". He was a "superman".
He would make fun of you, all your friends and family in a harmless way that would have you rolling on the floor holding your sides. He could immitate anyone or any comic scene from a movie. I especially enjoyed his Chris Farley: Living in a Van Down by the River skit. And, of course, he did my father so well. He loved comedy. He loved to go see the Letterman show being taped in New York.
I loved that he would walk in the room ready to help. What can I do? What do you need? How can I help? He was always ready to go - getting the whole gang into gear and out the door.
I love that lived life to the fullest in every sense of the phrase. He went with such gusto whether it was down the hill on a sled or onto a roller coaster at Cedar Point or scooping himself a salad-bowl size of cereal, Kraft Dinner or mint chocolate chip ice cream smothered in hot fudge sauce and eat it using the biggest serving spoon he could find.
John was very giving and loving and generous. He was handsome and smart. He is so greatly missed.
Posted By: Christina 2005-02-19
 
Always smiling
Posted By: Christina 2005-02-19
 
I was cleaning out the basement this weekend and came across a birthday gift John gave me a few years back. As we age and move away from home, we really don't do the birthday gift thing anymore, unless you happen to be around on someone's birthday.

Well, John had played in some golf tournament that weekend and won a prize for whatever reason. It was a fondue set. He took a big black marker and crossed out his name and wrote "Happy Birthday Carolyn" on the box and then presented it to me as a birthday gift. He thought it was quite funny to give me a fondue set. Little did he know that a fondue set was the perfect gift for me, and it actually gets used.

I am so thankful that I kept the box.
Posted By: Carolyn 2005-02-14
 
John loved games. He’d play just about anything...cards, Scrabble, and Cranium. One of my earliest memories of John playing cards was with Meme. Maybe I remember it because he cheated and Meme was not impressed. He was too young to realize that it wouldn’t be right to cheat when playing cards with Meme.

John loved to cheat. There was always a little too much cheating going on during those back porch games at the old cottage. It was during one of those games that a new phrase was coined: “We’re supposed to have fun...fun, FUN, FUN!” John was doing his best to disrupt the game with some unethical moves as usual....

I remember teaching John how to play chess when he was probably less than 10 years old. After a half dozen games, John started to win. It wasn’t long before I wasn’t much competition. I remember thinking he was so young and so quick at learning how to win.

You could always count on John to play Scrabble. He would come in the door from work, school, or hanging out and you could ask him if he wanted to play Scrabble and he would always say “Sure!” He’d plop down in the chair, grab his guitar, and win a game or two.
Posted By: Colleen 2005-02-07
 
John was a terrific person and will be terribly missed. I will always remember one incident where Sam and I were visiting Windsor and were suppose to meet a friend of ours at a local bar. A waitress came up to us and told us a man had bought us a beer. Confused, I looked in the direction she was pointing and saw a tall, good-looking young man in a white sweater smiling in our direction. It was John standing with a few of his friends. He came over and chatted with us in that good-natured way he had for about 15 minutes and kept us laughing while we waited for our friend to show up. It struck me that if it had been me I probably would have said "hi", engaged in a little smalltalk and then went back to my friends, but John just seemed to go out of his way to be friendly. He was a great guy. He will be in our hearts and memories until we meet again.
Posted By: Jeff Schiller 2005-01-04
 
I looked at the entire website in memory of John and I was just in awe. I smiled, laughed a little and I also cried while going through the site. What a truly wonderful tribute to Johns memory you have all provided, to those who had the privilege of knowing him and also to people like myself who did not. Even though I never met John after looking at the website I do feel like I really do now know what an unbelievably caring, warm, funny, gentle, devoted, artistic, talented and amazing person he was who touched all those around him in such a special way. It's very clear that John really embraced life for all that it had to offer, and loved his family so very much.
Posted By: sharon korman 2004-12-27
 
Without having the privelage of knowing John, after reading all the wonderful stories about him and looking at all the pictures and the video, I am truly touched by this wonderful tribute the family has put together in his honour. I have a real sense of the kind, loving, genuine, warm and expeptional human being that John was, who without a doubt has left behind a legacy that many people would be unable to acheive in an entire lifetime. Not only has he so positively inspired all those that knew him, but has also insprired and warmed the hearts of those people like myself, who never knew John. From what I have seen, I believe that John lived every day of his life to the fullest and embraced life for all that it had to offer, and he spread his love and laughter and compassion to so many people in so many ways, in the short time that he had on this earth. To me, I feel that he accomplished in his life things that others may never be able to do in two lifetimes. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends, and may you take some comfort in knowing that his zest for life and unconditional devotion to his family will warm your hearts forever and somehow enable you to cope with the pain of his loss and find the strengh to go on without having his physical presence here, and know that his great spririt and beatiful soul will forever be with you. To give any kind of advice to your family that is in so much pain right now, may seem trivial, but I too lost my brother at 27 who also was in the prime of his life and all I can say is that you have to take life one minute at a time, don't ever stop talking about and laughing about the wonderful person he was. The tears and incomprehensible pain will be there always, you can never escape that reality. Life without John will not get easier, but in time how you choose to cope will make the difference. It's not the time that will heal, it's what you do with that time that will be the key. Thank you for allowing me to have a glimpse into Johns life and for what it's worth, without knowing him, he has impacted my life and inspired me to embrace every day and to try and remember that we all have a purpose on this earth though we never know when our time will be up, if we can enjoy and embrace this time and life like John did, we will all leave behind a legacy that will forever be in the hearts and souls of everyone.
Posted By: Sharon Korman 2004-12-26
 
A couple of summers ago, John and Jenn came up to Rhode Island for a short vacation with me, Mrs. D. as he always called me!! While Jenn was helping John unpack their things from the trunk, they found a Toblerone chocolate bar which Jenn had brought back from London about a month earlier, soooo. . . after sitting in the trunk of John’s car in the middle of the summer on a hot 85 degree day, you can image what it looked like – yuk!!

If you don’t know, Toblerone bars contain chopped nuts and John (and of course, Jenn went along) thought it would be funny to play a joke on me. He squeezed the melted chocolate bar onto the driveway, which came out looking, like, well, you know, dog s_ _ _!!! He then yelled out to show me that someone had let their dog go to the bathroom in the middle of the driveway, so I wandered over and was a little miffed to see that lump of brown in the driveway!!!

I couldn’t believe that someone could do that and was pretty pissed, especially since the rent at these summer beach homes can be rather costly and we had just gotten there and were faced with this mess!!! I looked down at the pile of s_ _ _ and wondered how we were going to clean it up, and it did have to be cleaned up before someone stepped in it. As I was thinking of where a shovel might be, John looked down, bent over, swiped his finger through the pile of melted, lumpy brown stuff and stuck his finger in his mouth and said mmmmmm! Oh my god!!!

I almost fainted in horror, and yelled out “OH JOHNNY”!!!!! (I use to call him Johnny, because he was my grown-up kid!) It was then, that both John and Jenn practically fell to the ground from laughing so hard. After a moment of delayed confusion, I realized it was a joke – ha, ha!!!

Jenn and I have frequently laughed about that day and how casual and unassuming John was about sticking his finger in a pile of melted chocolate that looked rather disgusting to say the least – even if it was chocolate!! He brought an element of fun and relaxation to the couple of days he was there with us at the beach house!! Rolling around in the sand on the beach with his nephew Conner, taking a nap with his hat over his face covered in sand, putting together an awesome dinner with what little was in the house and just making us laugh at his silly antics!!

John Strong will forever be in our hearts and we will spend a life time laughing at his funny jokes, his unpretentious ways and his ability to always make us feel comfortable whenever he was around – I think of you often, Johnny!!!

Love,
Mrs. D.
Posted By: Nancy Dixon 2004-12-17
 
I know I am much younger than all of the strong kids. But I still remember all of you. It's so different walking around the corner and seeing your old cottage. Everything looks the same, but there is hardly ever anyone in the yard. Growing up I remember going to the Mcteers and MacPhersons cottages, and seeing all of you having so much fun together, it almost always seemed like you were having a party. There was so much joy in that cottage.
Posted By: Sarah Nicholson 2004-12-06
 
This is an awesome website, guys! Thanks for giving those of us who were fortunate enough to have known John, the opportunity to share our memories of him with others.
There are countless numbers of "John stories"...One summer, I remember going up to Grand Bend with John and Tom in the big van. We had spread the board game, "LIFE" across our laps and played it for the entire two hours that it took us to get to there. It took us so long to finish the game mainly because John kept making up stories about the woman he had just married (in the game) and insisted on giving a dirty name to each one the kids he and his wife had as the game went along. There were many times that I nearly peed in my pants that day.
Then again, I had a lot of those "nearly peed in my pants" moments with my cousin...when he, Tom, Eric, Martin and I would make pillow forts and watch the most awful 80s movies downstairs at the cottage...when we would play cards in the family room at the cottage late at night...when we would all take turns pushing each other on the tire swing outside at the cottage (John pushed me so hard sometimes that I truly thought that I'd land flat on my head).
A lot of my memories of my cousin revolved around food. John taught me that it's okay to eat cereal for lunch...and as an early afternoon snack...and as a late afternoon snack... and as an after-dinner snack. I can still picture him sitting at the table, hunched over his bowl of cereal and scooping large spoonfuls into his mouth, making sure to wipe his chin with his shirt if any milk happened to spill out of his mouth.
I also remember many times, walking into the kitchen after getting back from the beach and John would be preparing lunch (or an early afternoon snack)...for some reason, the meal would always involve cheese...Anyways, he'd say to me, "Stefanny, cheese on bread?" Upon my reply, he'd quickly throw a plate with a white slice of bread and cheddar cheese on top into the...microwave (!) Believe me, it was good!
My cousin had this ability to make you feel (when he'd speak with you) that you were the most important person in the room, no matter how many people were in the room. You cannot say that about many people. His sense of humour was indescribable - it was just so multi-dimensional. After his passing, I would attempt to describe to my friends just how funny and talented John was...he was a comic genius, an excellent actor, and was extremely intuitive and observant about all that surrounded him...not to mention sensitive, caring, and kind. I will miss my cousin so much, but it is comforting to know that he is and will continue to be alive in our hearts and minds.

Posted By: Stephanie Schiller 2004-12-04
 
Ray and Sherri (our webmasters) Congrads to you on 1000 hits on this website. Our John is sooo well loved and missed! Thank You, for giving us all those late evenings and every last minute of your family time to continue to work on this. It is so wonderful to just log on from anywhere and view notes from friends and family. It's like carrying a huge photo album of memories around in your purse, afraid you might forget what he looks like. Thank you for keeping those memories of our John alive.
Posted By: Catherine 2004-11-29
 
I think you did one great job putting this web site together!
I recall visiting Grand Bend in the summer and anytime we were sitting around we would have a little card game called Casino. But of course, John had a different name for it................ he would say, hey uncle Mike let's play some Carnavor..............? It got to be every time one of my guys wanted a card game we would say "Hey let's play some Carnavor" and then we'd always say - where the hell did John come up with that?
He was one great guy.
Posted By: Mike Schiller 2004-11-26
 
As a fifty year plus friend of the Strong family I've had a wonderful opportunity of observing both the physical and social growth of all of the children. The dedication, love and responsibility of being a part of a large family was most obvious at the funeral service celebrating John's life.

As family members converged on Windsor from many directons, I had the privilege of observing the family members come together and coordinate and contribute their considerable talents to arrange the poignant church service now available on John's website. This was a testimony to the Christian love and values always displayed in the Strong household.

John was fortunate to be a participant in this upbringing in his formative years, and constantly displayed such in his dedication to his parents, friends and siblings, particularly Maureen. John was at ease with himself, confident in his capabilities, a fun guy to be associated with and loved and admired by many. Although I have many "John Stories" one stands out in my mind and revolves around golf, of course.

John had a large, powerful, off the tee swing, and the ball usually went a prodigious length, rarely straight and frequently far to the right side. On one occasion while playing with John, I casually suggested that he slow down the back swing for more control. "Mr. Bill" he said, he always addressed me that way, "that's no fun. I like distance better than direction." Typical John -- it was the fun and comradarie of his friends that was most important to his game of golf.
Posted By: Bill Keech 2004-11-25
 
What a wonderful tribute to a young man in the prime of his life. Although I never met John, I used to babysit his older sisters (with my cousin Pat (Sharon's little brother)) many, many years ago. I cannot imagine all the questions and feeling they must have right now. But I can say, I firmly believe he is in a better place watching over us all.
Posted By: Terrence McCarthy 2004-11-22
 
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share in honouring John's life and memory with this truly awesome website. I was unable to get to Windsor for his funeral and this helps me remember John as I knew him; funny, talented, an all around great guy. A couple of years ago I ran into a girl who is now a professional actor and who had taken part in the Sears Drama Festival right through to it's final competition. She asked me about John--if he was an actor now. I told her I had heard he had gone on to do other things, and she talked about how talented he had been. Many teenage girls across the province fell in love with John as they watched him in Billy Bishop.

I think John is one of those people that could have done a million different things in his life. Actor, teacher, chef, professional comedian, late night host. I look forward to reading some of your stories. I'm sure they'll be hilarious.

Posted By: Shannon Marentette 2004-11-20
 
Just visited your web site & wanted to tell you what a great job you have done. Unfortunately I was in Europe when John passed away, so didn't get to the funeral, thus for me it was nice to read the Eulogy & the music played.
As you know I met John when Mike & Kelly got married. Even though I haven't seen John over the years, Kelly has told me what he had been up to. I remember him making a brownie dessert at the restaurant in Grand Bend for his mom & I. Boy was it good, Brownie with lots of ice cream.
I also want to say that the thank you cards are beautiful. These cards will certainly be kept by all who receive one.
Take care,
Posted By: Betty Romanchuk 2004-11-20
 
I keep remembering John in a white short-sleeved t-shirt. Blue jeans or grey slacks—the remnants of the high school uniform. It must be after school then. Maybe fall, like now, a cool evening outside of the warm Strong family kitchen. I could be sitting at the table and Mary-Anne could be pouring water from the Brita pitcher or standing near the dishwasher talking to me and to him. John's probably saying something funny as he looks in the fridge. I can only remember bits and pieces. That I played a queen to his king in a play during my last year of high school. That he and Mary-Anne would argue but she usually (almost always) gave in like the good big sister she is. Elementary school, when two years made him so much younger than us…

A website like this helps to bring the pieces of memory together for those of us who knew John but not nearly well enough. It is a beautiful tribute to an obviously much-loved man.

Strong family: you remain in my thoughts and heart.
Posted By: nancy gobatto 2004-11-20
 
What a great tribute to John! Terrific site. Thanks for sharing it. He and all the Strongs will always be in our prayers. We have such a large family; its difficult to keep track of every one let alone meet them and get to know them. John sounds like a special person and it is our loss in not knowing him better. We think of all the Strongs - often. Through Sharon, we keep track of all of you and have you carefully recorded in our family genealogy data base.
Thanks you for allowing us insight into your wonderful family.
Posted By: Bob & Lois Schiller 2004-11-18
 
Thank you for doing this. It's a terrific site, especially for those of us who did not get to see John very frequently over the past few years.
Posted By: Thomas Schiller 2004-11-17
 
Here is an email John typed to the family from Connecticut in May 2002:
What is going on all!! This is John typing for Barry Orr. We picked out some colours (Canadian spelling) for the house, the base colour for fat boy Jamie to paint, yah right, like he'll be able to pull it off! It's light grey with white trim and third colour in between those two for the overhang. Moe went with dad, she's still feeling strong, no affects to speak of from the chemo other than slightly tired, you know MO!! We had a massive prime rib dinner tonight, chef Michael came over and we did a 20 pound rib eye, with yorkshire pudding, potato and carrots, corn on the cob, jicama with piquillo peppers and guacamole, german chocolate cake made by pastry chef Jen, pretty damn good dinner, I also made Moe a banana leaf-wrapped red snapper with organic mayo, cilantro, tarragon, olives and tomatoes - all orgasmic, I mean organic. John [Anstis] opened all his gifts. He got from Moe, Christopher and Connor: golf kit, towel, balls, 3 - $30 dollar scratch off tickets to win millions (he hasn't scratched them yet), and dad bought him a grinder for all his things needing grinding, like the lawnmower blade once-a-year. Other than that all is well, Happy Birthday tomorrow Kurtis!! Ray is expected to leave either tonight or tomorrow morning from TO for CT, hello to all, bye bye.
Barry A. Strong
typed and editted by John Strong
Posted By: C. Strong 2004-11-14
 
Dear Strong Family,
We hope that you are well, Just a small note to say what a wonderful job you have done with this website! Thank you for allowing others some insight to what a truly remarkable family John grew up in. It looks like you have shared many great memories together. (Lee and I got a kick out of the old Hockey pics) God Bless from our family to yours,
Posted By: Lee and Jill Dowling 2004-11-13
 
You've done one heck of a job with this tribute to John. It's a pleasure to visit the site -- thank you for making this available to us. I'd also like to thank all of you, speaking on behalf of RMHA, for giving us the opportunity to honour him through our organization. We are working towards an award for a travel team (possibly the team that travels to Europe each year) since he was involved with the travel side of RMHA.

Thanks again
Posted By: Pat Schiller 2004-11-13
 
I can't even begin to tell you how funny my brother John was. I would email him for weeks trying to communicate with him about something fairly important, I'm sure. My email response back from him would be..."I got an email from you. We apparantly share a last name, but I do not recognize your name. My father was one of many children, maybe we are related?" Another email back... "Do I know you? I'm sorry I don't know you?" And again days later after calling and checking and rechecking his address with siblings... "You have the wrong John Strong, I wish I did have a sister. You sound like a very nice girl."
Posted By: Catherine 2004-11-09
 
Sometimes John would get a craving for chocolate…. One day Jamie and John wandered into the Jen’s bakery in Habana and spotted the left over brownie pieces. Jamie looked at John. John looked at Jamie. They both looked at the brownies. Quickly, they started stuffing their cheeks with brownies. When they could fit no more, they emptied their contents on scales to see who could stuff the most. Jen, Moe and I howled.
Posted By: Colleen 2004-11-07
 
WoW! I just viewed all these picutres of my cousin John, and a flood of memories filled my head. I knew all along that my cousin was a performer, but these pictures say it all. The last time I saw John was in Febuary of this year. I was visiting his sister Moe. One night on his day off, he made us dinner. This dish he prepared was amazing, it was full of seafood. I kind of helped in the kitchen, helping peel,and clean the shrimp. John was making jokes about my shrimp cleaning techique.He eventually took over this process for me, because I was taking to long. John, always made me laugh.
There are so many funny stories about my cousin, but I am afraid it will take up too much room.
I will miss my cousin John, and so will my family, but this website really put a smile on my face.
So, I want to thank all the people who put this website together, you did a great job. Thank-you for helping me remember John. This website will also help me to never forget my cousin. Thank-you
Posted By: Renee Gursoy 2004-11-06
 
John taught me everything there was to know about how to cook and properly run a kitchen in a restaurant. He was the best boss I ever had, and his great sense of humour and compassion for other people's problems made him a great person. John literally changed my life when I was 15 yrs old, now I am 20. I got into some trouble and I didn't know who to talk to, so I talked to John. John made me realize what was important in life, and how to keep my head straight, to focus on a goal. John was a great person, a great mentor, and a great friend. I am really going to miss him, and I wanted to thank him for his witty sense of humour that always made me smile and laugh, but most of all, for the timeless advice that I will always remember he gave me.
Posted By: Guest 2004-11-03
 
I overheard one of John's Brennan classmates comment that when John was in her classroom for the very first time, she and all the other classmates knew John the very first day. It was his infectious and bubbly personality that drew people to him.
Posted By: Guest 2004-11-02
 
Well, I must first tell you that I am still left with a very quiet feeling of wonder after you brother John's funeral.
In all honesty that celebration was incredible. The funeral I mean...no one believes it is a celebration until they go through one. The music, which I've heard before and call them the "indigo girls of mass"...was so perfect , so UP, so...I don't KNOW ...PERFECT...
but firstly...this James/Jamie Cagney...very poignant, eloquent and as the mass of family and people would agree ..."right on " with John's humour, personality, loving-care...so much so that I missed not knowing him. I came home and re-told as best I could the whole funeral for my husband and started crying while I was telling him how we were all so very relieved & entertained by Jamie's eulogy and Father Burnett's reality check on LIFE and THEN to have your father come up at the end...well my husband's eyes were welling as I told him...it just brought the whole life order into such an imbalance that I could not control myself...just crying and crying that I thought I couldn't leave with everyone...then the last song they played was SO NOT FUNERALISH...I was tapping my flippin' feet...
You did IT...You guys really did IT...It was like you were guided or something...I swear it has to do with your whole family's artist freakishly weird nature....but you did a wonderful (tribute is so old of a word) but ya' know we all deserve an acknowledgement of our life and you guys did such a beautiful job....you graciously, artistically, perfectly reflected a life, a personality (very important to me and to you and to ALL), a SPIRIT incredibly.
This will NEVER lessen the sadnesssssssssssssss of course...You need to help lessen the saddness by--keep telling your sons and your nieces and nephews about John...'cuz for me, is losing the realness and spirit of someone by not talking about them...promise me you will do this continually...it is very important...
Thinking of you
Posted By: Guest 2004-11-02
 
When John was younger, it was time to train him regarding car maintenance, so I asked John to open the hood of the car and to remove the oil dipstick and to see what it says! When I looked out to see how he was doing,he had the dipstick to his ear listening!
Posted By: Barry A. Strong 2004-11-02
 
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