Obituary of Johnny Wayne Lancaster

Johnny Wayne Lancaster, beloved husband of Lyalla, passed away Oct. 8, 2023, at the age of 80. Johnny was born and raised in Cranbrook and thought growing up on his family’s dairy farm to be the best childhood anyone could have.

Johnny received his B.Ed. from UBC and his M. Ed from Gonzaga. “Mr. Lancaster” taught in Cranbrook Elementary Schools for 35 years. He created and ran chess clubs, loved to coach all sports, and combined his passion of sports, children, and computers to create programs for the city track meet.

His first-year teaching in Cranbrook changed everything as he met the love of his life, Lyalla. This active duo became inseparable, and their time was filled with participating and competing in anything and everything, most notably curling, sailing, fastball, travel, Duplicate Bridge, reading, and always enjoying time with family and friends. In retirement, Johnny & Lyalla continued to see the world and were especially happy escaping Cranbrook winters in Mesa, Arizona & Ajijic, Mexico.

Johnny was a beloved Dad to Paige (Kevin), Travis (Melody) and Corey and thrilled to be Gramps/Pop to Maya, Jake, Solen and Laryssa. He was also brother to Dick (Linda) and uncle to many nieces & nephews.

He loved entertaining, whether taking everyone hiking to his ‘secret’ waterfall, huckleberry picking, waterskiing, hosting gatherings at his home or around his campfire at Tie Lake. Johnny lived life to the fullest and invited everyone to join in and do the same. He always & sincerely answered the question “How are you?” with “Any better, and I’d be perfect”.

The Lancaster family wishes to thank everyone involved in his care during his final months and weeks: Phyllis from Comfort Care Home, and the staff at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital especially the nurses.

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held during the summer. In lieu of flowers, we gratefully suggest donations in his name could be made to the Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies which supports non-profit projects in Johnny's beloved East Kootenays. Donations may be made at the following link : https://www.cfkrockies.ca/donate/