Obituary of John R. Willett

Born November 17, 1916 in Saint John to Essia J. Willett (nee Jackson) and John G. Willett. John graduated from Saint John High School and Wheaton College. Following service in the Canadian Army he joined the Saint John branch of The Willett Fruit Company, Limited a firm started by his father in 1905 at 3 North Wharf. He soon opened a new branch in Kentville, NS. Returning to Head Office in 1953 he succeeded his father as President in 1961. John retired in 1980. He was also President of Mason’s Limited of Sydney, NS. John served as a Director of The New Brunswick Cold Storage Co. Ltd. from 1964-74, and was a past member of The Royal Trust Co. Advisory Board for New Brunswick. He was previously a member of the Union Club, RKYC and Partridge Investment Club. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Phyllis (nee Hoben) and children Sharon and Ralph of Saint John and Susanne in Fredericton. His brother David of Halifax and sister in law Marjorie Crowe (Geoffrey) of Rothesay also survive along with several nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his parents, sisters Helen and Sophie, and his brother Don. In his final months, John experienced the grace and tranquility of The Turnbull Home. The gratefulness of the family, for the loving care and attention of the staff to John cannot be measured. They will forever be in our hearts and minds. By request there will not be any visitation, a private graveside service will be held in Fernhill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers or donations from friends, the family will make a donation in his memory to The Turnbull Home Foundation. The arrangements are under the care of Brenan's Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John. (506) 634-7424.