Obituary of John Robert Webster

WEBSTER: John Robert "Chick" Peacefully at his home, Mattawa, on Thursday January 18, 2018, at the age of 97 years. Chick was the beloved husband of the late Leona Jerome (nee Montroy). Loving father of Jacqueline Hartley of Toronto, Robert Webster and his wife Shirley, Jane Leonard and Dan, and Jamie Webster all of North Bay. Predeceased by his son John in 1977, and by his granddaughter Gayle in 2014. He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Erin, Jesse (Michelle), Gantry (Erin), Margaret (Eric), Matt (Oriana), Cody, Chris, Jake, and great grandchildren Jaida, Kiarra, Lennon, Emma, Robyn, Max, Noah, Autumn, Carter, Vaughn, Lincoln, Atlas and Aiden. Dearly loved brother of Gloria Loughlin husband Hal, and predeceased by his brother Bill, Don and Fred. Remembered by his many nieces and nephews. Chick was an Army Veteran of the Second World War, serving with the 3rd Division's 13th field artillery, first as a gunner then he became a forward observer. He served in England, France, Germany, Holland and the North Sea, and was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Mattawa, Branch 254 for the past 47 years. Chick played junior hockey in Toronto for the Native Sons from 1937-39, then he played with 5 different pro and semi pro leagues; EHL, AHL, NHL, PCHL, WHL between 1940-52. While with the New York Rangers he broke his hand in the 15th game against Detroit. Later he retired as a member of the Cincinnati Mohawks in 1952. Chick also played baseball in Toronto and area and for NHL all stars. Later he worked for Da Havilland in Toronto, prior to moving to Mattawa in 1969. Chick had been the oldest living NHL player for the past year, from January 4, 2017 until the time of his death. There will be a time of Remembrance at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #254 on Saturday February 3rd, from 2:00-4:00 PM. Cremation has taken place and Chick's ashes will be interred in the family plot at St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery. If desired, donations to the Mattawa Minor Hockey Association, P.O. Box 1005, Mattawa, Ont., P0H 1V0, would be gratefully acknowledged as expressions of sympathy. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Martyn & Sloan "Mattawa Chapel". Online condolences may be offered at www.martynfh.com.