It is with profound sadness, that the family of John Dominic Best, announce his passing on September 23, 2023, age 57 Years. John faced a very short battle with cancer, and he is to be admired for his strength of character through it all. It was a precious life taken way too soon.
He was predeceased by his Father William Best, brother Terrence Best, bother -in- law Shawn Hanlon, and father-in-law Benedict Leonard. Leaving to mourn with broken hearts is his one and only son Karsen Best, whom he adored, and Kimberly (Karsen’s Mom). Also leaving to mourn are: his dear mom (Annie); sisters Dianne (Jim), and Dora; brother Martin; Nieces and Nephews: Stephanie (Max), Terrence (Shania), Brandon (Chelsea), Brittany (Cameron), Marty (Verena), Steven, Tyson, Lauren, Kerah, Jordy, Kahlem, and McKenna; Great Nieces and Nephew whom he cared so deeply for: Abigail, Maria, and Henry; his sisters-in-law: Cauleen (Chris), Karen (Jordan), and Sharon (Steve); and mother-in-law Eileen; as well as a large circle of co- workers, coaches, family and friends.
John will be forever remembered for his fun-spirited soul; kind, thoughtful, and caring nature; as well as his sensational passion for the teaching profession. He had a remarkable ability to make people laugh with his keen sense of humour, quick wit, and hilarious jokes. He was the bright light at times when it was needed most.
He was a staunch and influential teacher for 30 years, touching the lives of many students, staff, and families at Terrenceville All Grade, St. Catherine’s Academy, and Cowan Heights Elementary. He was loved, respected, and admired by all, and for this reason, he was given the title “Mr. Best is the Best!” He taught from the heart, leading, inspiring, igniting imagination, creating adventures, instilling a love of learning, and always encouraging students and athletes to be the best they could be. He had a gift of making students smile, and to him, if this was one thing he could accomplish each day, then he considered it to be “a day well spent.”
He had an incredible love for basketball and baseball, and a distinguished enthusiasm for coaching. He was skilled at training young athletes to believe in themselves and in their ability to succeed, treating each student as his own. He was ecstatic upon receiving the prestigious “Coach of the Year Award” for Newfoundland and Labrador during his career. It was well deserved and a moment he held dear to his heart.
John was not only a dad to his only son Karsen; he was also a coach, a mentor, and a best friend. John’s love of sports was instilled in Karsen at a very young age, and he was a proud dad following him to hockey, basketball, baseball, and golf. They both enjoyed playing golf together and poking fun at each other’s shots along the way. John always considered it an honour and a privilege to walk onto the golf course together and to do what brought them both great joy and satisfaction. Their bond was strong, unyielding, and everlasting. “Life bring tears, smiles and memories. The tears dry; the smiles fade; but the memories last forever!”
There are no words to express the gratitude for the extraordinary Doctors at the Cancer Centre for their professionalism, compassion and care throughout John’s illness: Dr. Rorke, Dr. Downton, Dr. Larsen, Dr. Ahmad, Dr. Sediki, Dr. McCarthy and to the many phenomenal nurses who had a part in caring for him during his hospital stays; thank you to the palliative care team for their expertise and promptness; thank you to his sisters Dianne and Dora for their unwavering love, countless hours taking care of John, attending to his every need, and for going above and beyond to make him feel comfortable; and a special thank you to his brother Martin for being there for him every step of the way.
A gentle soul taken way too soon, will dearly be missed. “There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.” John will continue to be a bright light for all who loved him.
Resting at Christ The King Church, on Wednesday, September 27th from Noon to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm and Thursday, September 28th from noon – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00pm. Funeral mass to take place on Friday, September 29th at 11:00 am, Christ The King Church, Southern Harbour. Cremation to follow with burial to be held at a later date. While flowers are gratefully accepted, donations to help with the purchase of the Christ The King Church would make his family proud. Donations may be made through EMT at [email protected] or cheque payable to Sheldon Williams.
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Alicia Kennedy says
September 25, 2023 at 2:16 pmThere are no words to express what I want to say right now.
To say John Best was an awesome man just doesn’t cut it . He was by far The Best. The foolish times, the laughs, the jokes are just a few of the great times I had the privilege to share with this man when I taught with him . You don’t forget them , you treasure and cherish everyone of them .
Thank- you John for those times and for showing up for me when I thought I couldn’t go on.
The world is a darker place without you.
Kay Griffiths says
October 4, 2023 at 10:50 amDianne, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your brother; another sad loss for your family. I am sure he was grateful to have you as a caregiver in his time of need, as I know how kind and compassionate you are.
Andrew Wade says
September 25, 2023 at 2:29 pmI am so very sad and sorry for John’s family and friends. During my high school years, I had the pleasure of playing against many teams that John coached. Even though I wasn’t on his team, I had a few conversations with him about the game. He not only loved to coach his players but anyone who wanted it. Years after high school ended, I was struck with luck again as I did my internship at Holy Cross in Holyrood, and John was the Phys. Ed teacher there. He continued to mentor me there as a teacher and help me as a coach. I send you all my prayers and condolences at this time. He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed.
Elizabeth Clairmont says
September 25, 2023 at 2:42 pmKim, Karsen, the Best and Leonard families. I’m sorry deeply sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of John when he taught Maggie “her favourite gym teacher” at Holy Cross. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Hold on to all the precious memories of John close to your heart as you deal with such a tremendous loss.
Catherine Tremblett says
September 25, 2023 at 2:47 pmTo John’s family and especially Karson, who he talked about often I am sending prayers and my thoughts are with you. I worked with John at Cowan Heights and the staff and students were delighted when he returned to us to sub after he retired. John had many jokes and was fun loving and caring. He always lead a hand to help out wherever it was needed. he always had a special interest in children that were having a rough day and made time for them. He was one of a kind , gone way too soon.
Catherine Tremblett
Sharon Beresford says
September 25, 2023 at 2:59 pmAunt Annie, Diane, Dora and Martin I don’t know where you begin. Just hold on to all the good memories that you all created. He is with Uncle Bill and Terry now and free of pain.
Cheryl Hearn says
September 25, 2023 at 3:03 pmMr Best was such a great basketball coach and teacher. Many laughs were had over the years at SCA. Im so thankful for all the time he gave on the basketball court during my school years! Thinking of all his family during this time.
Michelle Maloney says
September 25, 2023 at 3:59 pmMy sincere condolences to Karsen, Kim and families.
John was a wonderful teacher, colleague and friend to us all at HC. He always had a quick word to say that would leave a smile on your face and always brought laughter to the staffroom! You never knew what he was going to say or do, all in good fun ofcoarse.
Rest in peace John!
Bernice Best says
September 25, 2023 at 4:02 pmTo the Best Family.My heart is breaking for you all.I pray that God will give you comfort through the wonderful memories you all made with John.Martin I think of all the memories we have during our school years with John and I can honestly say we had a blast.Lean on each other and know that I’m thinking and praying for you all.
Brenda Pike says
September 25, 2023 at 4:33 pmOur sincere condolences to John’s family. John was a big part of our children’s’ school years, both as a teacher and coach at St. Catherine’s Academy. We have many fond memories of attending basketball games as well as his devotion to his students. May he rest in peace.
Heather Hanlon says
September 25, 2023 at 5:23 pmKarsen, Kim and the Best Family,
Please accept my condolences on John’s passing. His sense of humour was a welcome addition at St. Catherine’s Academy; even if he was ‘The King’ of bad dad jokes. His untimely passing is a loss to the many lives he has touched. May your memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Madonna McCarthy says
September 25, 2023 at 5:41 pmI honestly don’t know how to express my feelings at this moment. I knew John when he was a student of my husband who was the Principal of the school in Southern Harbour for many years. Our friendship continued as they became Colleagues for some years afterwards and lived next door for a couple of years. To Kim, Karsen and all his family and friends, know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. 🥲🥲🤗🤗🙏🙏
andy leonard says
September 25, 2023 at 6:06 pmvery sorry to hear of your loss.
Hayley Hickey says
September 25, 2023 at 6:39 pmSending my condolences to Mr. best family.
He was a kind, thoughtful soul.
One of my favourite teachers.
Rest easy sir.
-Hayley
Gail Hatcher says
September 25, 2023 at 7:12 pmKarsen and family, I had the privilege and honour to work with John (your dad) at Cowan Heights for a few years. He often brought many a smile with his “badness” as I would tell him. As a special needs teacher, I would often admire the manner in which he made such great efforts to include those who needed some extra care. He was a good friend and we would often share updates about our children. He loved you very deeply, Karsen. Always so proud. After my husband lost his battle to cancer, he would always speak to my daughters when they came to visit. Such a kind, considerate friend.
Sending my deepest condolences to you. May the love you have in your heart carry you in the days ahead.
Jenny Thomson says
September 25, 2023 at 7:18 pmI’m so sorry for your loss. Mr. Best taught my two children at Cowan Heights Elementary up until his retirement and was a substitute teacher for my son’s class after his retirement. He was such a sweet, kind and funny man. Children and adults alike loved him. He touched a lot of people’s lives and there are many students who will forever remember him as their favourite teacher
Rick Fennemore says
September 25, 2023 at 7:43 pmJohn was so good to his students. They really loved Mr. Best. He made a lasting positive impact on students and staff. He will be remembered with love. It was a pleasure working with John over the years.
Sherry Maher says
September 25, 2023 at 7:43 pmWhile I had the privilege of briefly knowing John for only the last couple years, John left a profound impact on me, and I believe he exemplified the qualities of an outstanding human being and teacher. John’s caring nature, both towards his colleagues and students, was evident in everything he did. When he retired and chose to substitute at our school, we were truly blessed to have him back with us. His sense of humor and genuine concern for people were qualities that I deeply admired. One particular memory that stands out is how he would seek out those who needed a friendly face to share lunch with. It was a simple yet powerful gesture that showcased his kindness and compassion.
CHE was so lucky to have him. I wish to extend my condolences to his son, his family and friends.
RIP John!
Michelle White says
September 25, 2023 at 7:53 pmMy sincere condolences to Karsen and all John’s family. I got to know John during his time at St. Catherine’s Academy. He spoke of you after Karsen and it was easy to see how much he adored you. He was such a nice guy and always stopped to chat whenever I would meet him. Rest in peace John. Thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. May your memories console you in the days ahead.
Krista Singleton says
September 25, 2023 at 7:58 pmI was so sorry to hear of Mr. Bests passing, he was a great teacher – I remember lots of laughs, poking fun when it was needed. Thinking of his family during this hard time, so sorry for this incredible loss.
Julie McCarthy says
September 25, 2023 at 8:52 pmSo sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a good teacher and we enjoyed his humour in St. Joseph’s all grade
Doreen & Tom Ryan says
September 25, 2023 at 9:42 pmTo his Mom Annie & all his family
We are so very sorry fir your loss.
May god give you all strength to face your terrible loss.
“Cherish each & every Memory”
Brenda and Winston Brown says
September 26, 2023 at 6:05 amMartin and family
Brenda and I send our sincere condolences at this difficult time. We will be praying for you and your family in the days ahead.
Anne Marie Carew says
September 26, 2023 at 6:33 amSo sorry to hear of Mr Best passing my condolences to his family .He will be missed .I knew him when he taught at St Catherine’s Academy he always had a smile and a laugh .RIP
Patricia says
September 26, 2023 at 6:58 amStudent Assistant) Mr Best is “the best” Worked with John at Holy Cross Holyrood..
Very sad to see …he worshiped his son
Fly high
Patricia Kelly
Gus & Heather Marrie says
September 26, 2023 at 12:56 pmTo Karsen, Kim and the Best family. So sad to hear of John’s passing.. John was a great teacher and loved by many. Hold tight to your memories and he will always be with you. RIP John. Fly high with the angels.
Glen and Brenda Maloney says
September 26, 2023 at 8:43 amKarsen, Kim and all of John’s family…. We are so very sorry to hear of John’s passing, definitely one of the absolute BEST human beings gone way too soon. You are all in our thoughts throughout the difficult days ahead. Condolences to you all.
ROM DALTON says
September 26, 2023 at 8:58 amTo all of Johns family ,
This came a shock as I didn’t know John was sick, out of the school loop. Ran into john many times at the hockey games with his son, always had time to chat and ask how everyone was. he was an exceptional human being, (teacher, sports coach) and will leave lasting memories to all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with with you all durning this sad and difficult time. R I P JOHN
Joshua durdle says
September 26, 2023 at 11:28 amMr best was my favorite teacher, I remember when he tried to fix my glasses, funny guy, its sad to see him go, my condolences go out to his friends and family
Michelle, Scott, Isabella and Sophia Whelan says
September 26, 2023 at 1:31 pmOur sincere condolences to the children, family and friends of Mr.Best. Our two girls both had Mr.Best for P.E. in Cowan Heights Elementary. I surprised them one day for lunch only to find my youngest and a couple of her friends chasing Mr.Best around the gym. All you could hear was laughter. I’m not sure who was having more fun. A good memory indeed. God bless you all during this most difficult time.
Ashley Butler (Hanlon) says
September 26, 2023 at 2:53 pmKim, Karsen , I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Best’s passing, he was one of the best teachers at St. Catherine’s Academy . My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time . God Bless!
Norma Allen says
September 26, 2023 at 3:01 pmHaving only know John for a brief time, it was evident that John was there for his family when they needed support during a time of hardship and to lend a helping hand. Sincere condolences to John’s immediate and extended family during this difficult time.
Cherish each memory, lean on each other, and celebrate his kindness and compassion.
Deborah M Doherty says
September 26, 2023 at 3:05 pmSo very sorry for your loss Kim , Karson and family.
Anne Godin says
September 26, 2023 at 5:20 pmI am so sad to hear about John’s passing. I worked with him at Cowan Heights Elementary and have fond memories of him. I feel privileged to have worked with him. John cared about his students, was very easy to get along with and spread happiness all around him.
Kelly Murrin says
September 26, 2023 at 5:47 pmI am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I worked with him at Cowan Heights Elementary. He was such a friendly man with a wonderful sense of humour. I enjoyed working with him very much. He will be missed. My condolences go out to his family ❤️
Margaret Mulrooney Thorne says
September 26, 2023 at 6:02 pmSo sorry for your loss. I was talking to Dora, John and Mrs. Annie only a few months ago at Tim Hortons in Whitbourne. Condolences to all of John’s family.
Maia Hickey says
September 26, 2023 at 9:31 pmI knew him as Mr. Best from Holy Cross. He as the best gym teacher ever and i have the best memories with him! He always had a smile on his face and never raised his voice, even when we were being a bit too loud. He got me into sports and i’ll forever be grateful to him. My condolences to his family and friends.
Janine Dalton says
September 27, 2023 at 12:02 amI am so sorry to hear of Mr. Best’s passing, he was a such a great teacher, one of the best at St. Catherine’s academy. There was many of laughs and jokes. Thinking of his family during this difficult time.
Christine Daley says
September 27, 2023 at 1:11 amTo all John’s Family
Our deepest sympathy on Mr. Best passing as he was called at our school, St. Catherine’s Academy. During Mr. Best teaching career at our school , he was THE BEST COACH to our boys, did so much for them all, was a very dedicated coach while having lots of fun at the same time. Students and adults had lots of respect for Mr. Best and were sad to see him leave our school. Treasure all your memories with John and hold them close to your heart as we will with our memories from our many games, laughs and good times.
RIP THE BEST COACH
Sincerely
Christine & Andrew Daley & family
Newbridge
Dana Vaslett-Hackett says
September 27, 2023 at 3:31 amWas such a great teacher and coach. He was a huge part of my love for basketball…. Even made me enjoy Biology at times… he certainly was one of “The Best”!! He was the kind of teacher/person that you never forget. May he Rest In Peace. Condolences to his family.
Edna, Bill & Marie upshall says
September 27, 2023 at 5:03 amKim , Karsen. & all family & friends of John , our hearts are breaking for you all at this difficult time. John was one of the best men you could ever wish to have known.we loved him dearly. He will always be forever loved and missed by all who knew him. Hold on to your precious memories. Hugs to you all.
RIP John
Love Edna, Bill & Marie Upshall
Chance Cove
Wanda says
September 27, 2023 at 9:04 amSorry for your loss..may god bless you all..my prayers and thoughts are with you all..RIP MR Best..from Mr Mcdonald 4 north A
Hugh Keenan says
September 27, 2023 at 2:36 pmKarsen, Kim, and the entire Best family. I am very sorry for your loss. John was fun-loving, caring, and kind man. I always enjoyed our chats and sports talk. John was very respected and admired teacher and person. He will be forever missed.
Gerard Perchard says
September 27, 2023 at 9:05 pmMy deepest sympathy to the family and friends of John Best.I was a co worker and friend of John during his years at Cowan Heights Elem. WE had a lot of laughs and conversation during his stay with the school .He was well liked by me and the staff at the school.He was well liked by all the students he taught. He had a great sense of humour a very easy going personality.I and the staff and students will surely miss him. God bless you John
Arlene Gosse says
September 28, 2023 at 12:48 pmKarsan and family I send my deepest condolences. I had the privilege to work with John since Jan 2014 when I returned from maternity leave. He use to call us the wing nuts because we both taught side by side gym/music. John was one of those people that always left people feeling better. I remember when the closure for the pandemic was announced all the chairs we’re spaced out and he had himself covered in plastic making everyone laugh always knew how to be the light in tense times. My children Lucas, Julie., Jacob and Jayden adored him to they always said Mr.Best got the perfect name because he is the best! Grateful to had the opportunity to work with him for such a long time he made work a fun place to be. He absolutely thought the world over his son he was definitely the light of his world! Rest in eternal peace John your fun and loving spirit will always be celebrated at Cowan and in all the lives you touched ! Outstanding human being taken way to soon! 🎶Arlene
Trent Langdon says
September 28, 2023 at 12:59 pmTo John’s family and friends…my deepest condolences.
Though I did not personally know John, I did have the honor of meeting him just last year and was struck by his personality and friendliness.
On behalf of the members of the Newfoundland & Labrador Teachers Association, I wish you strength in the coming days and months.
Take care,
Trent Langdon
NLTA President
Terry Fleming says
September 28, 2023 at 5:35 pmTo John’s Family:
Sorry to hear about his John’s passing. I knew John from St. John’s College days and even though we haven’t cross paths since we finished University, I have fond memories of John as a really easy going guy and easy to get along with. We were all young when we started at the College together and having a guy like John around made staying at the college enjoyable. RIP John
Terry Fleming
Meagan Careen says
September 28, 2023 at 8:34 pmSending my deepest condolences to John’s family.
Even though I only met John the last couple of years while working at CHE, I remember him from my high school years. Growing up attending Fatima Academy, John was well known being the coach of our near by rivals, St. Catherine’s. You could tell how dedicated he was to his team and how well they respected him!
I had the privilege to share the gym with John on numerous occasions last year and he was a pleasure to work alongside! Always willing to lend a helping hand and share a laugh!
Hold your memories close in the hard days ahead! John will be greatly missed!
Mike Ryan says
September 28, 2023 at 10:38 pmTo the family of John,
Taught with John in Terrenceville.It was our first teaching jobs.John made sure the students played all the High School Sports.We split coaching so both boys and girls could play.John was a great coach for the students in Terrenceville.We had many great laughs in Terrenceville as we began our teaching careers.
I am devastated about the loss of John.A great person and super dad.
RIP Easy Johnny
Mike Ryan
Marystown ,Newfoundland
Adrian and Susie Hunt says
September 29, 2023 at 12:19 amTo all of John’s family! We extend our most heartfelt condolences to you all on John’s passing! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all! Thinking of you all and praying that God will give you the strength to get through this most difficult time! Cherish your memories! God bless you all! Love & hugs to you all! ❤️ Rest In Peace, John! 🙏🏻
Michelle Vere-Holloway says
September 29, 2023 at 11:55 amThe Best Family, as you mourn the loss of your beloved brother John, please accept my deepest sympathy. I hope beautiful memories soften your grief and the support you receive from family and friends give you hope through this journey of mourning and healing. Wishing you peace and comfort during this very difficult days ahead. Thinking of you all. Fly high with the angels. RIP
Glen ODriscoll says
October 13, 2023 at 7:37 pmSo very sorry for John’s passing! I have many fond memories of John from our days @ St. John’s college! Martin was very close with John as well, and we had many memories together!
I spent a night or two in Southern harbour back in the day and John had come out for a weekend or two as well!
Although we were both teachers, lives took us in different directions and we lost contact, touching base every now and then!
He was a great guy then and as I read the comments above, I realize that he continued with that great personality throughout his life!
Rest easy my friend!
Douglas Dawe says
October 28, 2024 at 10:36 amIt was with a sad heart that I learned (just recently) of the death of a teacher with whom I served on staff with at St. Catherine’s School some years ago. John was a quiet man who exuded with such enthusiasm for the profession. He would be an example to upcoming young teachers to strive to be as kind and caring for students as he was. I have fond memories of him and I remember that he had a wonderful smile. He was always one who took the time to make you feel important and part of his world. John will be missed immensely by all those whom he touched professionally or personally. May his family find comfort in knowing that during his short life he was a true person with a big heart for those in his life. Go in peace to the Maker and make his soul rest in peace. The heavens have received yet another star who left far too young but as we know as people of faith he is in a place of divine peace. John is at home with his Father. Blessings.
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