Dr. John Anthony MacCarthy

Dr. John Anthony MacCarthy entered into eternal rest on 27 February 2026. Born in Dublin, with a golf club in one hand and rugby boots on his feet, he was the eldest of five to Eugene and Teresa MacCarthy. John was a devoted Catholic whose Irish warmth and generosity stayed with him throughout his life.

At 23 years, as a medical student, John struck gold—not in the literal Irish sense, but in the far luckier sense of convincing the stunning young nurse Ann Marie to marry him. Once his days of rugby scrums at Belvedere and dancing on tables were (mostly) behind him, he qualified as a Medical Doctor, and the newlyweds immigrated to Canada.

After six winters and two fellowships in Winnipeg, and now with two young boys in tow, they moved to British Columbia, where John joined the respiratory practice in New Westminster.

John served the community as a Respirologist for over 37 years, known for his steady care and gentle spirit. He was devoted to his family, never missing a chance to say “I love you,” and had a gift for making those around him feel happy and at ease.

He loved golf and played every round with good humour, a reflection of the easy warmth he brought to all parts of his life.

John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ann Marie; his children, Eugene (deceased), Eoin, Neil, Ciara (with Christopher), and Suzanne (with Christian); his siblings: Paul, Cathal, Colm, Clare; and his doting grandchildren Clare, Anna, John, Ronan, Griffin, Hannah, and Patrick.

A prayer service will be held on March 12th at 6:00 pm at St. Michael’s Parish, followed by the funeral on March 13th at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation.