John Charles Bear of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador passed away peacefully at home on October 30th, 2022, aged 75, with June his life partner at his side.
Born in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, John graduated in Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and completed his Ph.D. in Genetics at Newcastle University, U.K. He joined Memorial University of Newfoundland Medical School in 1977 as Professor of Population Genetics in the Division of Community Medicine. During his tenure he was also an active member of the MUN Faculty Association. Following his retirement in 2002, he resumed his earlier interest in sculpting, both taking courses and teaching at the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador Clay Studio where he was an enthusiastic participant and supporter. In 2018 he was granted a solo show of his clay and 3D printed sculptures in the Craft Council Gallery. He was a member of the Group of 77, regularly attending life drawing sessions. John was an avid gardener and he enjoyed hiking, camping and took a keen interest in environmental issues. Retirement permitted foreign travel which fed his interests in art, history, food and wine. His acerbic wit and humour will be missed.
John was predeceased by his mother Sarah Bear and his father Samuel Bear. Left to mourn are his partner of 35 years June Walker-Wilson, brothers Sam (Jean) and Colvin (Carol), nephews Charlie (Meg), Andy, Howard and John, great nieces Bella and Lilly and close friend Adrian McKeever.
Special thanks to Dr. Petra Joller, Dr. Roger Butler and his team, Community Health Nurses Sarah Byrne and Wanda Lee Thomey and all the staff at Compassion Home Care, especially Chibuzo Nmecha, Brandon Muvingi and Joshua Odame-Apraku.
Cremation has taken place.
Family will be receiving visitors on Thursday, December 15th, 2022, from 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 p.m. at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Rd.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador Gallery and/or Clay Studio.
Copy Link SMS Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
July 17 1947 to October 30 2022
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of John Charles Bear July 17 1947 to October 30 2022 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
Death notice for the town of: St-John’s, Province: T-N