Obituary of Jon Conway Dewar

It is with deep sadness the family announces the passing of Jon Conway (Con) Dewar. Born in Campbellton, New Brunswick, in 1945, he was the eldest son of the late Oliver and Winifred Jean Dewar. Jon and his family moved to Saint John (Rockwood Court) in 1957. He was a resident of Shannex Nursing Home (Quispamsis) since 2010 where he passed peacefully March 18th, 2016 surrounded by his four loving brothers. Jon was a graduate of Saint John Vocational School in 1963. He was an Elvis Presley inspired musician all his life. He began as a drummer with Rick and the Impalas, followed by the well-known Saint John group the Hodads. He went on to play with many bands from Saint John, Montreal, and New York City. Jon was curator for New Brunswick Museum’s history of Rock ‘N’ Roll in August 1997. In addition to being a musician, Jon was also a published writer. His best-known work was the short story "One Turkey Extra" from the collection of Christmas Stories "Gifts to Last" (1996) by Walter Learning. Jon captured first place in the writer’s federation of Nova Scotia’s 15th Annual Atlantic Writers Competition for a 22 page play titled "Regressions and Past Lives." In the early years following graduation, Jon started his working career with Poly-Cello, and then was employed with McAlpine Construction, and Rothesay Paper in Saint John before moving to Montreal. When he returned from Montreal, years later, he founded Aura Foods (1980) in Fredericton. Unfortunately, his working career was compromised with the early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Jon is survived by his four brothers Bob, Les, Oliver (Chug), and Tim, son Chris, along with numerous nieces and nephews. In addition, he is survived by his life-long best friend Rick Lester, his wife Lynn, and good friends Peter and Nira Kindred. Not enough can be said about the love, care, and compassion provided by the management and staff of Shannex, Embassy Hall Level 1. The kindness was also extended to the family during Jon’s last few days. Jon’s brothers wish to offer their deepest appreciation, and heart-felt thanks. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visiting on Sunday, March 20, 2016 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. The funeral service will be held from Brenan’s Chapel on Monday, March 21, 2016 at 12:00 Noon. A private interment will take place at a later date in Fernhill Cemetery. The family would appreciate any donations be made to the Parkinson Society, Maritime Region - Saint John Chapter.