Canadian Guards Association - by Howie Pierce, Gdsm - Re: John Hunt

With many friends and associates from the Guards, RCR, relatives and friends attending Pinecrest Funeral Home Nepean ON., 19 December 2011 -- it was time for friends and relatives to get together to tell stories, to share memories, to acknowledge our loss and support one another together, in person, as well as the online tributes. The ambiance was that of a sombre occasion looking around at a full chapel - took note just below a photo of John, (the same one seen in his obituary), were his many medals laid out on a black velvet pillow. They appeared to be a foot wide, their meaning was to be the focus of a commendable eulogy delivered by Gerry Wharton. As we in attendance followed along, Gerry wound his way through each medal -- one by one connecting the man and his war and peace time service and honours and awards he received for all he had contributed for his adopted country, Canada. On a personal note how as a young 15 year old boy in England went off to war ... later as a young man now a Senior NCO, immigrated to Canada and continued to serve Canada for 38 years with the Canadian military. Retiring as a Major, awarded the Order Military Merit (OMM), and Canadian Forces Decoration (CD) throughout his service always remained a true friend and gentleman, respectful to all he had contact with. Although for many who had come to know John personally, the most outstanding tribute was, "John has always conducted his personal and professional life with a pinch of kindness and thoughtfulness in every challenge he was to take on throughout his life, as a Guardsman, Royal and Public Servant." Once again representing the Canadian Guards Association, Past President Gerry Wharton stepped forward, a personal friend of John's, with a well researched and detailed memorable eulogy honouring one of our own: John Hunt, OMM., CD., Major (Ret'd) At the reception Mrs. Hunt expressed her appreciation for all the kind words and appreciation for the many that attended and spoke, primarily for the sincerity expressed concerning her husband's life-long military career.