John passed away after a short battle with cancer surrounded by family on Saturday November 23rd, 2024 at the age of 68 years. Loving father to daughter, Victoria (Chouaib) and son Christie as well as granddaughter Hana. He will be dearly missed by brother David (Beth), close friend and former spouse Alex Milroy, and fondly remembered by many extended family members, friends, and colleagues.
Born in Montreal, QC to the late Thomas Christie Arnold from Bermuda and Marie Blanche Louise Proulx from Chicoutimi, QC. John’s formative years were across Geneva, Toronto, Ottawa, New York State, and St. Catharines, before graduating from Mount Allison University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Commerce.
John spent the majority of his career with the Liberal Party of Canada where he recently celebrated his 30th anniversary of service having risen to Senior Director of Regulatory Compliance & Administration. He took great fulfillment from his work and the community there, having no desire to retire even after achieving this milestone. While John loved the contractual and administration work he especially enjoyed the social aspects of his position, and could often be found at local & national events and networking opportunities. John was a mainstay of the LPC organization, and his presence will be missed by all those who had the opportunity to work with him.
John was an excellent cook and had the ability to fix almost anything. In his spare time he enjoyed doing renovations to his home, tending to the garden, spending time with family, and going on long daily walks. His house was a testament to his abilities as he transformed a fixer-upper into a beautiful, thoughtfully designed home. John loved to travel, and would often be joined by his son on trips, typically including at least one winery destination. As a dedicated grandfather John always showed up to cheerleading competitions and horse shows to support his beloved Hana. John was also a devoted son, who diligently supported his mother Louise until she reached the end of her own journey last year.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 14th from 3-5pm at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON).
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Bruyere Foundation, 43 Bruyere Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 5C8.
Livre de visiteurs
John Herhalt
Marilyn Cloutier
I had the pleasure of working with John for almost the entire time he worked at LPC. He was so dedicated to his job and to the Party. He was a great mentore to me and was always so patient and understanding. Condolences to his family. Rest in Peace John.
Honourable Marie-P. Charette-Poulin
As former President of the LPC, I worked closely with John. He was an outstanding team player who knew how and when to implement ideas successfully. His dedication, his generosity and his loyalty were his trademarks. He took the time to call me several months ago to say: Senator your 5 & 5 idea for stable fundraising is bringing in millions every year. I cannot thank you enough. Yes he was an outstanding professional but above all a kind man.
Lloyd and Pat Posno
I had the pleasure of working closely with John for many years at LPC. He was always approachable, reliable and a huge help with a ready smile and sense of humour. We often shared stories of family and kept in touch even after my retirement.
My wife Pat also had the pleasure of getting to know him. We were shocked and disappointed to learn of his passing.
Our thoughts are with you at this time and we will he and his family will be in our thoughts.
With deep sympathy.
Lloyd and Pat.
Paul Hershaw
I had the pleasure of working with John for eight years, and he was always generous with his knowledge and happy to work out a solution. He was proud of his children and often wove their achievements into our conversations. I’ll remember him out and about in Ottawa, wearing his signature cheese cutter hat, smiling and enjoying life. He will be missed.
David Haire
My sincere condolences to Victoria and Christie and family on John's passing. He passed away far too early. I was a recipient of one of John's amazing meals, he was a fantastic cook. The Good Lord has him in his arms and is taking care of him now. Rest in peace John.
Quito Maggi
John was the bedrock of the Liberal party office. During my many years as a political and party staffer, John kept us all on our toes, that was over 20 years ago but he already had a long and distinguished career at that time. A true professional at all times, but still human in a way that made everyone comfortable.
I had a very recent interaction with him that reminded me of my respect and admiration for him after so many years. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends.
Raph G
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the family.
I had the pleasure of having met John. He was always helpful and had a positive attitude. I'll remember the many times we crossed path in the morning commute, with him walking faster than I and the transit system.
He will be missed.
Jess Spindler
John was a fountain of knowledge and a mentor and friend to many. He will be sincerely missed.
Hon. Terry Mercer
I am shocked. John was a rock of the Liberal Party and a dedicated father. While I was National Director John was one of my most trusted and loyal colleagues. The financial management of the Liberal Party relied on Johns wise counsel and I on the friendship. Rest well my friend.
My deepest sympathies to all of the family! John will be missed by all that worked with him over the years! My thoughts and prayers are with him and all of you!