Dartmouth, NS
March 12, 1942 - September 28, 2024
John Garnet Zinck, age 82, of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia passed away Saturday, September 28 at the Dartmouth General Hospital.
He was born to John Bennet and Catherine Irene (Kaulback) Zinck on March 12, 1942, in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.
Throughout John’s professional career, he assisted others in many ways. One of his greatest passions was serving for 32 years on various Canadian Coast Guard vessels after spending time as a lighthouse keeper along his beloved South Shore. He spoke fondly about his time at sea with stories and pictures he generously shared with anyone who asked. Among the many places he visited, it was this country’s Far North that had a special place in his heart, whether it was traversing the Northwest Passage in 1967, anchoring at small outports like Pond Inlet and Pangnetang on Baffin Island or traveling to Qaanaaq (Tule), Greenland.
After retiring from the Coast Guard, John continued to give his time to others as a Commissionaire for 6 years at both the QEII Camp Hill and Dartmouth General Hospital locations. It was during this time he became very close with the healthcare teams. Later, this helped him to work so well with the doctors, nurses, and staff over the past several months when he entered the hospital as a patient himself.
His final retirement came after working as a crossing guard in the Southdale-North Woodside Elementary School area for several years. Talking to students, parents, and teachers made this experience even more enjoyable. He always found a way to make conversation an integral part of each day while ensuring the safety of others.
John’s interests helped define who he was. He liked catching up on how well the Blue Jays were performing, listening to classic country and western songs, tending to his backyard garden or making sure the supper-hour news and weather were not missed.
His love of visiting family and friends was another of his great pleasures. From his weekend day trips to his hometown to places in the United States, or from the Ottawa area to Cuba and South Korea, John made acquaintances and lasting memories wherever he traveled.
John is survived by his loving wife and partner in life of 54 years, Beverley Ann (Dares); his two sons, Kevin (Heejin) and Michael (Kimberley) and three grandchildren who he adored so very much for the wonderful things they have accomplished: Benjamin, Rebekah, and Andrew Garam.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, George Benjamin Zinck; and, sister Nema Leone (Zinck) Hebb.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers on 5 West at the Dartmouth General for their commitment and unconditional affection they gave John.
A funeral service will be held at a later date.
In remembrance of John’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the charity of your choice.
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