John Robert HYND

John Robert Hynd passed away peacefully at RUH Saskatoon on June 12, 2023 surrounded by family and friends.  He felt strongly he was safe in the arms of Jesus.

John found contentment with his common-law wife Robyn McGregor of 17 years and made their home in Milden, SK, with their much-loved dog Bazel. They went to concerts - Rolling Stones and Meatloaf (one of John’s faves) and enjoyed camping. Robyn’s son Nathan and granddaughter Bailey, who loved Grandpa, live nearby and they were able to spend a lot of time together.

John was born in Saskatoon on December 15, 1943 to parents Sadie and Arthur Hynd. His Dad immigrated with his parents from England in 1912 to Borden, SK. After moving to Saskatoon, his dad lost part of his arm in 1940. His dad started a painting business and John began helping him when he was a teenager. Through an unfortunate car accident in his late teens, John was seriously injured and unable to pursue his passion and what would have been a promising career in football. He joined Hynd Painting and took over the business after his dad passed away in 1975. John honed his craft and became exceptional in his work… so much so that his striving for perfection and sometimes, his admitted procrastination, jobs took a little longer!

John married Val Bauer of Saskatoon in 1963. They made the perfect Fred and Wilma Flintstone one year for Halloween. Together they had three children - Leanne (Jeff), John (Denise) and Janine (who Pops later visited with her, Dana and their fur babies in NB). They lived in beautiful City Park for many years. Holidays were filled with extended family and raucous games of cribbage, bid whist and Kaiser. In 1977, they took a long summer family vacation through the western United States and had many adventures on that camping trip. Leanne had their two grandchildren, Jarret and Olivia (Curtis).

The chaos of alcoholism led John and Val to separate in 1978. In 1985, John joined AA and began his sobriety. At the time of his passing, he celebrated 38 years in the program. He poured his heart into becoming sober and later helped many others in their struggles. John developed lifelong friendships and support.

Some of his closest friends include Eldon and Jeanine, Ben, Kelly and Laura, Brian and Susan.

In 1990, John met Laurie Calder of North Battleford, SK. The next year he moved in with her and immediately became part of the family - Shari (Neil), Jamie (Jeff) and Tomi (Erin). John and Laurie went to AA together for many years. Family vacations, sports, fishing, house renovations and special occasions were all part of the fun. John was there for the births of grandchildren Kyle, Kelsie, Tanner and Jacob.

John was predeceased by his parents, his brother Roy and Roy’s wife Arleen. John loved his nephews Robert (Sarah) and children Ava, Keira, Nadia and Nora; Kevin (Sara) and children Savannah and Parker; and David.

John loved the Serenity Prayer, music and all the people in his life. He will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, big heart and quick wit.

A Celebration of John's Life will be held on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Milden Alliance Church with Pastor Ryan van Reeuwyk officiating.

Donations in memory of John may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Canadian Diabetes Association.