Newfoundland And Labrador Obituary – James Canning, a beloved figure in the St. John’s community, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. His death leaves a significant void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him. James was not just a dedicated hockey player and golf enthusiast, but also a cherished teammate, friend, and mentor to many. His legacy is one of resilience, camaraderie, and an unwavering love for life, which he lived to the fullest despite the challenges he faced.
James Canning’s life was marked by the deep relationships he cultivated through his passions. Hockey and golf were more than just sports to James—they were avenues through which he built lasting friendships and connected with others. As a hockey player, James was known for his strong team spirit, leadership qualities, and competitive nature. He wasn’t just a teammate; he was a brother to many of his fellow players. Whether he was playing on the ice or supporting his teammates off the rink, James had a unique ability to bring people together.
Rick Hawco, a close friend of James and hockey teammate, shared his grief upon hearing of James’ passing. Rick fondly remembers the time they spent together at the Murph Open golf tournament two years ago. In his heartfelt message, he recalled the moments they shared on the course, laughing and challenging each other, even though both spent a fair amount of time in the rough. For Rick, this memory encapsulates James’ personality—always ready with a laugh and a positive attitude, even when things weren’t going according to plan. James brought joy and lightheartedness to everything he did, from sports to everyday life.
James’ battle with cancer was a long and difficult one, but he faced it with the same courage and tenacity that defined his character. Those who were closest to him watched in awe as James never lost his will to live or his commitment to the people he loved, despite the challenges he faced. He approached his illness with the same resilience he demonstrated throughout his life. James’ journey was not just one of survival; it was a testament to his strength of spirit and his refusal to let cancer define him.
Throughout his treatment, James remained an active and engaged part of his community. Whether through his hockey team or golf friends, he never allowed his illness to distance him from the people he cared about. He continued to play in tournaments and support his teammates, always with a smile on his face and a fierce determination to stay involved. His presence was felt by all who knew him, and even in his toughest moments, James continued to inspire those around him.
James Canning was deeply devoted to his family and his community. In St. John’s, he was more than just a familiar face; he was someone who made a difference in the lives of those around him. His community knew him as a man of integrity, kindness, and generosity. Whether he was lending a hand to a neighbor, supporting local initiatives, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need, James’ influence was felt in countless ways.
Family was at the heart of James’ life. He cherished the time spent with his loved ones, and his family was a constant source of support and strength during his illness. His commitment to his family was unwavering, and he was deeply loved by them. His passing has left an irreplaceable gap, but his family finds comfort in knowing how much he meant to the people of St. John’s and the lasting impact he had on their lives.
For James, sports were more than just an activity; they were a way of life. Hockey was where James forged lifelong friendships and demonstrated his competitive spirit, while golf provided him with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and connect with friends in a more relaxed setting. In both sports, James excelled not only through his skill but through his ability to foster camaraderie and teamwork.
His love for hockey was well-known in his circle of friends, and his presence on the ice was always felt. He was a valued player and a reliable teammate, someone who could always be counted on when the going got tough. His team’s admiration for him wasn’t limited to his playing ability—it was his personality, leadership, and character that truly set him apart. James was the kind of player who would encourage others, lift them up when they were struggling, and celebrate with them in victory.
James’ love for golf was similarly significant. The Murph Open, a local golf tournament, was a regular event where James spent countless hours with his friends, enjoying the game and the camaraderie that came with it. Despite the challenges of the rough, he always managed to find humor in the situation and stayed positive throughout the event. For James, it wasn’t about winning—it was about enjoying the moment and sharing experiences with those around him.
James Canning’s passing has left a deep sorrow in the hearts of his family and friends. Yet, despite the pain of losing him, those who knew James are finding ways to celebrate his life and honor his memory. His friends, including Rick Hawco, have taken to social media to share their stories and express their admiration for the man they called a friend, teammate, and golf buddy. Rick’s heartfelt tribute paints a picture of James as a man who never took life too seriously, yet approached everything with a sense of joy and commitment.
For those who were fortunate enough to spend time with James, his legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and fun. His laughter and positivity will live on in the memories of all who knew him. James made those around him feel appreciated, valued, and loved—qualities that defined his character. His passing is a reminder of the importance of living life fully, cherishing moments with loved ones, and facing challenges with a positive outlook.
As St. John’s mourns the loss of James Canning, the community reflects on the life of a man who touched so many hearts. James’ legacy is not defined by his struggle with illness, but by the way he lived his life—full of love, humor, and a deep connection to the people around him. His passing has left a void, but it has also reminded everyone of the importance of kindness, friendship, and perseverance.
To his family, friends, and teammates, James will never be forgotten. His life serves as an example of strength in the face of adversity, and his memory will continue to inspire all who were lucky enough to know him. As they honor his memory, they will continue to carry forward the lessons he taught them: to live with passion, to cherish every moment, and to never stop fighting for what matters most.
James Canning may no longer be with us, but his spirit will live on in the countless memories, stories, and lessons he left behind. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life made a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
