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John Michael Sarich In the 1920s, John's father arrived in Princeton BC from Croatia to work in the coal mines. He was later joined by his wife Eva and two small children. A strong work ethic came naturally to all six children of the immigrant family. From an early age John had paper routes and worked in Vancouver shipyards. When the family returned to Croatia after the war, John stayed in Canada working in the expanding woods industry. He worked in logging camps along the south coast before coming to Terrace in '51. After marrying a local girl Marlene Michiel in '59, Terrace became home. They were delighted with the birth of their three children - Michael in '62, Eva-Marie in '63 and Mark in '64. In the early '60s, John bought his first spar tree. A few fellow loggers pooled their resources and within a few years, this small business expanded and the company grew to become a logging camp and a stump-to-dump operation. Acquiring an airplane, not only brought joy and interest but also made it possible for John to be home more regularly, as the route between camp and his wharf at Lakelse Lake was shortened. After more than 20 years he retired to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. Most of all he loved family life, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed reading and was self educated with broad interests. A humble man, John looked to the needs of others before his own. His recreation was golfing, flying and travel. He enjoyed nature in the ocean, forest and mountains. With a glass of red wine, music, good food and a gathering of friends, John knew he was a rich man. His desire to live was strong and he fought his battle with cancer courageously. He died at home surrounded by those he loved, in the valley he had called home for more than 50 years. Seeing his Maker reflected in the Northwest which he loved, a strong faith had grown. John was led to baptism in his seventieth year and is now truly home. |
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