John “Wee Johnny” Blues

John “Wee Johnny” Blues was a Royal Navy veteran, railwayman, artist, craftsman, and tireless volunteer whose pride in his Scottish heritage could be seen in everything he created.

Born in Arbroath, Angus, Scotland, Johnny served with the Royal Navy during the Second World War aboard HMS Eclipse and HMS Whaddon. He remained immensely proud of his wartime service throughout his life.

Johnny married Ethel, the love of his life, on March 18, 1948. Five years later, they decided to begin a new life in Canada. Choosing their destination by placing a pin on a map, they settled in Winnipeg—a wonderfully chance decision with which they remained entirely happy. Johnny and Ethel shared 66 years of marriage and raised their daughter, Wendy.

For 32 years, Johnny worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway as a carman at the Weston Shops. He retired in 1985 after a long and dedicated career.

Johnny believed in staying active. He was an avid golfer who passed his love of the game to his daughter and grandchildren. He curled with the Sons of Scotland league and at the Fort Rouge Curling Club, enjoyed many opening-day fishing trips in the Whiteshell, and became a longtime member of the Reh-Fit Centre following a heart attack in 1985. There, he especially enjoyed the friendship and lively conversation of the fellows at the “Round Table.”

He and Ethel spent many happy summers camping at Lake Seven and travelled widely throughout North America and abroad. Upon retirement, Johnny made his only return visit to his native Scotland.

Scottish culture remained central to his life. He proudly supported Wendy through countless Highland dance lessons and competitions and performances with the Heather-Belle Ladies’ Pipe Band. He also devoted many hours to Folklorama’s Pavilion of Scotland.

Johnny’s most visible Pavilion legacy came through his exceptional artistic and woodworking talents. He created the carved Pavilion of Scotland sign and an iconic life-sized Highland dancer painting—works that continued to welcome visitors and enhance the Pavilion for years afterward.

A member of the Adanac Carvers Association, Johnny produced carvings, paintings, drawings, and sculptures that remain treasured in the homes of family and friends. His artistic gift also continued through his grandson Zachary.

Above all, Johnny was a devoted husband, father, and “Grandad” to John, Zachary, and Tia.