SCHAFFLIK, John Kristian 1978 - 2004
Born March 25, 1978, in Santa Barbara, California, John grew up in Coombs, BC, and lived on Central Vancouver Island until moving to Vancouver in 2001, where he worked in the construction industry for the past two and a half years. John was always a hard worker, first with the PQ News when he delivered 125 papers on his bike in Coombs. His first "real" job was with McDonald's, and he also worked for the Central Island Co-Op before becoming a well-liked member of the produce department at Qualicum Foods for 6 years. Graduating from Kwalikum Secondary in 1996, John is remembered for his ever-present smile and desire to please others. He was a big man with a big heart who loved unspoiled nature better than anything. He loved to climb, camp, mountain bike, fish and sail. He was a gourmet cook and loved to build with his hands since early childhood. He died as the result of a massive head injury sustained in a fall while working. He is survived by his wife, Jamie Martin, of Surrey, BC, and their child, expected any day; his older brother, Erik Hoffgaard, of Copenhagen, Denmark; biological father Jorgen Christian Hoffgaard, of Helsingborg, Sweden; mother Gene Ann Gapsis, of Coombs; adopted father Dietmar Erich Schafflik, of Parksville, sister Emily Schafflik and brother Stefan Schafflik, of Coombs, sisters Beate and Sue Granneman and their families of Port Alberni, Karin Schafflik-Hills of Port Alberni. John is loved and missed by all his many friends, co-workers, and family. His fun-loving and open spirit, compassion and generosity leave a powerful message for all that remain to focus on the highest qualities of the human spirit which so often are eclipsed by our earthy cares and concerns. Donations in his memory can be made to the Last Door Recovery Society, 323 8th St., New Westminster, BC. V3M 3R3.