THEXTON: John Daniel, beloved husband of Barbara passed away suddenly at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on February 12, 2007. John was born in Preston, Lancashire on December 8, 1928. At the age of four, the family moved to Manor Farm, Studham Beds, where he spent a very happy childhood. John immigrated to Canada in 1948 sailing on the Aquitania. After working in Ontario for a few months, he headed west to Swan River, Manitoba. Here he was employed by J.W. Palmer, working with his son Bob. The two became lifelong friends. John moved to the Brandon area four years later and worked as the manager of the Pool piggery, Douglas. In April 1969, he married Barbara. After the piggery closed he worked at Klondyke Farms and Shilo Farms. He also obtained the local dealership for Pioneer Hybrid Corn. In 1978, the Manitoba Horticultural Association presented the Thexton property with their Provincial Award. It was here that John and Barbara raised their sons, Bill and Derek. They became professional Market Gardeners to which their customers can attest. Some thirty years later they moved to Monterey Estates. Here they continued to garden and for the past two years were included in Brandon's Communities in Bloom program. John will remembered for this passion of gardening and love of the soil. He loved to travel and was an excellent cook. John was a great storyteller with a laugh never forgotten. John is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Barbara; his sons Bill and Derek (Jaycee); three beautiful grandchildren, Rory, Zachary and Ava. He was predeceased by his parents and daughter-in-law, Dayle. In consideration of John's wishes, no formal ceremony was held at this time. Friends who knew John are requested to remember him in their own special way. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.