John Victor Askew

John Victor Askew - 59, of New Minas, passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side, Saturday, July 12, 2014. Born in St. John's, NL, he was the only child of the late Joseph John Henry Askew and Drucilla Evelyn (Pye) Askew and step-son of the late Charlie Holmes. John was educated at Bishop Field College, Prince of Wales College and Memorial University in St. John's. In the early 1970's, John successfully completed RCMP recruit training in Regina, SK. He served with the RCMP in the Halifax and Kentville/New Minas Detachments. During the latter years, John served in the GIS (General Investigation Section - Plain Clothes Unit). In 1983, John co-founded JR's Beverage Room and Steak House in New Minas and a year later, opened the Side Track Beverage Room in Berwick. He was also involved in many other businesses and Real Estate. John was a former member of the Rotary Club of New Minas Sunrise. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Jocelyn (Ward); two sons, who have always been his pride and joy, James (Nicole O'Brien) and Jeffrey, both of New Minas; sister-in-law, Bonita Ward (David MacAulay); nieces, Erin Veinotte and Alyson (Jeff Dutchak); nephew, Robbie Veinotte; cousins, Bernice Oldfield and Evelyn Zobatar; cousins in the Pye family; great nieces, Mackenzie and Kamryn Bennett, Amelia and Charlotte Dutchak. He also leaves behind his special camping buddies, as well as his faithful companions, Diesel and Hemi. A celebration of John's life, followed by a reception, will be held at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, 2014 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville, Reverend Cathy Pharo officiating. A private family interment will take place at a later date, in the Berwick Cemetery. Family flowers only, by request. Donations in memory may be made to the charity of your choice. The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to the VON, the doctors, nurses and staff of the Valley Regional Hospital, members of the EMS, and caregivers Jean, Sandra, Jenna, Lois, Karen and Stella for your care and compassion. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.