Byron John Montgomery

March 2, 2019

After an all too brief illness, Byron John Montgomery, in his 57th year, peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Parkwood Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit. He is the cherished husband of Viola Poletes Montgomery and the adored father of Daphne and Jemma. Byron also leaves behind his much loved parents, John and Kay Montgomery, of Creemore, Ontario. He is also survived by his siblings, Neil and Sandra; his nephew Paul and niece Tonya; and by many Greek relatives in England, Greece and Canada who ‘adopted’ Byron as their own member of the family.

Byron was a passionate political observer and writer of many articles and books on political systems, frameworks and parties. He was an avowed environmentalist and a strong advocate of elections and voting. He was known to post signs during federal and provincial elections, ‘Think, then Vote’, urging people to vote but to also think about their choice and its impact on the greater good.

Byron’s greatest joy, though, was fatherhood. He embraced, with a passion, raising his daughters — be it playing video games with Jemma or having endless conversations about politics with Daphne. His selfless devotion and dedication to ‘Daddy’s girls’ made him, in their eyes, ‘the world’s greatest Dad’.

Many thanks to the nurses, Michelle, Linda and Catherine and so many others whose name we did not catch but who made Byron’s last 24 hours of life peaceful and pain-free.

Heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Daphne and Jemma’s three godparents: Marla Neish, Drew Neish and Daniel Abboud for dropping everything to rush to hold our hearts as we endured such a sudden loss. Byron and Viola always knew they had the best people to be their daughters’ godparents.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London. The celebration will be lead by close family friend, Martha Fauteux, with a vocal performance by Viola and Byron’s cousin, Jeremy Montag.

There is a once-in-a-lifetime love that comes along and gives you so much joy, so much happiness: Byron was that love for me. My proud, rugged, country boy from Creemore who epitomized integrity with his every breath and personified the devoted family man with his unconditional love for his adored daughters, Daphne and Jemma, each and every day of his life. His sense of humour, his intellect, his passion for politics, his kindness and gentlemanly manner all defined who Byron was as a husband, father, son and brother. Our hearts will miss him so much.

In honour of Byron, please consider a donation to the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood Hospital, the London Regional Cancer Program or a charity of your choice.

Leave a tribute for Byron John Montgomery

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Viola, Daphne & Jemma, As you journey down your road of grief, as you mourn your loss and honour and celebrate Byron's life please know that our heartfelt love and prayers will be with you on that journey. Much love, Jim, Teresa, Jeremy, Kayla and Jason

~ TERESA MONTAG

Viola, Daphne, Jemma, and to the members of your extended family and friends, I am so sadden to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences go out to you during this very difficult time. I hope that you are comforted by the many wonderful memories and cherished moments you have of Byron and to know that we will keep you all in our thoughts, hearts and prayers! Joe Varamo and family.

~ Joe Varamo

Viola, Daphne, Jemma and family, Sending you my deepest condolences and love during this difficult time in your lives. May you find comfort in the love and memories you've shared throughout the years with Byron. Keeping you in my thoughts and heart. Rebecca

~ Rebecca

Dear Viola and family - such a shockingly short time for you and your daughters to have to absorb the huge, sudden loss of Byron, husband, father and so much more! I didn't know him, but in reading his heartfelt obituary, it is so clear the impact he had on his loved ones and his many friends. You are a woman of strong faith Viola - God bless you - you are in my prayers! Mary Kuntz

~ Mary Kuntz

Viola, Daphne and Jemma - We are so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of your beloved husband and father Byron. Sending our deepest condolences and love during this very difficult time. Wishing for you hope in the midst of sorrow, and comfort in the midst of pain. Stay strong and know there is a whole community at your side. May God bless you and keep you strong for each other. Maureen and Dan Quigg

~ Maureen

Dear Viola, Jemma, Daphne and family Please accept our deepest and heartfelt sympathies at this most difficult time. Although Byron has departed this earth, he will never truly leave you, as he lives on in your hearts and minds and your great love of family. May God bless and sustain you now and in the days to come.

~ SJU Board of Governors

To the Family: My condolences. The loss of a love one is indeed very painful . We were created to live not to die. Very soon Jehovah God will fulfill his promise, those who are sleeping in death will wake up, John 11:11; Daniel 12:2 and Acts 24:15. What a joyous time that will be, so confidently look to the future for the fulfillment of that promise. In the meantime let Holy Bible continue to bring you comfort. John 17:3

~ W.J.