Black Watch friends:
Regret to report the passing of John Gazely two weeks ago in Ottawa.
John served with our First Battalion, The Black Watch RHC in Camp Aldershot during the mid-1950s. After leaving the Regular Army, he joined the Army Reserve’s Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa for several years.
He has been a member and strong supporter of The Black Watch of Canada Association’s Upper Canada Branch since its founding in 1989.

John William McLeod GAZELY
14 October 1931 – 19 February 2023

John died peacefully at the Ottawa General Hospital, surrounded by people who loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Joan Elizabeth Gazeley. Also survived by Joan's sisters Susan Hellier and Heather Farrugia, and their families, as well as numerous cousins and friends.

John was born in Truro NS, the only child of the late George and Vera Gazeley. As a boy, John learned to serve as a Boy Scout, proudly attending Canada's first Scout Jamboree in 1949. In scouting, he developed a deep love of nature, and especially birding.

As a young man, he served as an Infantry Officer in the Black Watch, 1RHC. Following his Regular Force Service, John moved to Ottawa, where he met his beloved Joanie. A loyal and supportive husband, he brought his sense of service to their marriage as well. They enjoyed many years of world travel together, especially taking pleasure in a variety of cruises.

In Ottawa, John continued his service to country as a federal Public Servant in the Department of Transportation, as well as with the Cameron Highlanders, the Cadet Instructor League and the Legion.

For many years, John volunteered his services at his church, taking his beloved dogs, Wee Willie and Bandit, to provide outreach an companionship to patients at St-Vincent's Hospital.

John's final home was Oak Park Retirement Community, where he delighted in watching the wildlife in the nearby woodlot and in attracting scores of birds to his balcony feeder. He served his community there too, leading the strike count in the bowling league and he was always ready with a funny quip, kind word and gratitude for the staff and residents alike. The family extends their sincere thanks to Dr Ruth Farey and all the Oak Park staff for the many wonderful years of care and friendship which they provided to John, as well as the General Hospital staff for their care in his final days.

Having never had children of his own, John served his extended family and close friends by blessing them wit his dry wit, his loving presence and his determination in his elder years. At this past Christmas, John celebrated in fine form. Enjoying his favourite drink, a good single malt, he happily engaged with the younger generation, sang carols and old war ditties, and provided all present with his example of a long, well lived life of service.

John's cremated remains will be placed in the Christ Church Cathedral columbarium. A service is planned for early summer at St Thomas the Apostle Church, 2345 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa. Details to be announced. If desired, donations to the Heart Institute of Ottawa would be appreciated.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations
Hulse, Playfair & McGarry
www.hpmcgarry.ca
613-233-1143

R. I. P.
NEMO ME IMPUNE LACESSIT