CCCJ acknowledges the life of former President John Powles

Dear CCCJ Members past and present,

With great sadness I must inform you of the passing last week in Vancouver of John Powles, a former CCCJ president and as great a friend of Japan as Canada has ever produced. As many of you may already be aware, John died on Sunday at the Lion's Gate Hospital after a long battle with cancer. He will be fondly remembered by many of us, his friends and colleagues in Japan and Canada, from his days at Expo 1970 through his many years as Director of Asia and Japan Operations for the Council of Forest Industries and from his recent work as President of the Canada Japan Society. John grew up in Japan and spent much of his adult life here, His lifelong contributions to the improvement of relations between Japan and Canada were recognized in 2008 when the Japanese government awarded him the Order of the Rising Sun, Golden Rays.

The Canada-Japan Society of British Columbia is planning a comprehensive web memorial, and is soliciting content such as photos and reminiscences from those who knew John in one or more of his many roles. They would welcome any support you might lend to this effort, and will be happy to receive anything that you may feel may be appropriate for inclusion in this retrospective.

John's family and closest friends are planning an event to celebrate his life and mark his passing. I will keep you informed of all developments.

Regards,

Eric De Groot
President