It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of John W Jeakins on May 7th, 2025.

Born in Montreal on September 22nd, 1960, and raised in Vancouver, John was known for many things - not least of which were his famous silver briquet barbeques, renting train cars in China, and his hockey prowess across Asia. He is survived by his wife Debbie, his daughter Judy, brothers Paul and William, nephews Andrew and Robert Jeakins and nieces, Joie Chan and Rae Low.

John graduated from Vancouver's Eric Hamber Secondary and discovered his passion for the hospitality industry early on. After completing BCIT's Hotel Management Program, he began his career at the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver before joining the New World Hotel Group a few years later. At age 30, he was relocated to Beijing with the company-marking the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his life. During his time in China, John held a long list of leadership roles, including CEO, Vice President, and General Manager, successfully opening and developing hotels and ski resorts across the region. He made his way back to his favourite place, Vancouver where he worked as a Strata Manager for Associa British Columbia. Of all his titles, the most meaningful were husband and father.

John's humor, kind heart, and ability to engage with anyone that has crossed path with him will be sorely missed. His generosity in his time, advice, and laughter became the essence of his time on earth. He spent his life dedicated to the Canucks and left his legacy with the expatriate hockey league he played with in China. He will be missed dearly by Debbie and Judy, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in peace.

His celebration of life [was] held on June 8th 2025 at 1500 Alberni Street Vancouver.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/john-jeakins-obituary?id=58539813