John Gilbert Weetman was born to Cariboo pioneer ranchers Ted and Myrtle Weetman (Forbes) of Brunson Lake. Growing up on the family ranch with 7 other siblings John realized his love of ranching. John completed school in Williams Lake. On May 6th,1967,John married his wife Betty. The couple purchased the old Pinchbeck Ranch from John’s dad where they started their family, Karrie, Eric, Dallas and Todd. As the family grew, John thought that they needed a larger place and maybe a little farther from town. He and Betty purchased the historical Big Creek Ranch from the Church family in 1978. The couple operated Big Creek Ranch up until 6 years ago when John decided to downsize back to the old Weetman homestead at Brunson Lake where he was born. The couple sold the ranch to their son Todd and John retired. John loved the fact that he was able to help at the ranch when needed. Making hay and farming he loved. Being in the great outdoors and still riding horseback up until the end. You could always find him tinkering in his shop, trying to find ways to make things run smoother. John loved reading, his garden, and spending time with his family. He was a much respected cattleman and will be greatly missed by his many friends, family and community.
John leaves behind his wife Betty of 48 years. Daughters’ Karrie Paterson (Steve) of Williams Lake, Dallas Connell (John) of Australia. Also his sons Eric (Carla) of Dawson Creek, Todd (Jasmine) of Big Creek. Grandchildren Travis, Kendra, Brandon of Williams Lake, Matthew and Ryan of Dawson Creek, Tanner, Chelsia and Jerret of Big Creek and Xavier, Lily, Cate and Noah of Australia. Sisters Winnie Felker (Don) of Williams Lake, Kay Wilson of Republic Washington USA, and Fran Zanussi of Rossland BC.
John was predeceased by his parents Edward (Ted) and Myrtle Weetman, by his brothers Wilfred (Shirley) Weetman
and Edward Weetman and John’s sisters’ Ethel Weetman
and Dorothy Felker (Wally).
John also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday Nov.14, 2015 at 11:00 at the Sacred Heart Church. Father Derrick Cameron officiating.
In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canucks for Kids’ foundation or the BC Children’s Hospital.
LaPrairie’s Funeral Services entrusted with arrangements. 250-398-9100