CARP – Hero and community leader T. John Drain passed away early Friday morning (March 29) at the age of 79.

Drain, a retired purchasing administrator with the City of Ottawa, was also a hero. Drain was awarded with a City of Ottawa Citation for Outstanding Bravery and Courage for saving the life of a drowning victim from the ice-cluttered Rideau River. The indicent occurred on April 16, 1975 where the Rideau River passed by the then-City Hall.

“The ice-cluttered water was fast moving and it was at considrable risk to his own personal safety that the rescue was made,” the citation reads. “Despite having fallen through the ice himself on the first attempt, he persevered and helped pull the man, now unconscious, to safety. Prompt application of artificial respiration (CPR) saved the man’s life.”

“John led a busy and active life,” his wife of 52 years, Cheryl Drain wrote in his obituary.

He was the past president and lifetime member of the Purchasing Management Association of Canada, Ottawa District, the Ottawa Kennel Club and the Ontaro Public Buyers Association. He was a member of the Stittsville and District Lions Club for many years as well “plus many other well-earned awards and commendations.”

Drain leaves behind his wife and two sons Douglas and Daniel who are both City of Ottawa firefighters as well as his four grandchildren.

“I know I am a little biased, but he really was a great guy,” Cheryl told West Carleton Online today (April 2). “Family and friends were his top priority. Fun-loving, smart and always considerate of others. I have, at present, received over 193 notes on condolence with kind words attached about John. My two sons have received over 100 each from their friends and work. He worked a lot with kids over the years, clubs and organizations, and touched so many lives. I think the service on Saturday will have many, many people present.  Just hope the little church can accommodate everyone.”

There will be a service at St. Paul’s United Church on Saturday, April 6 at 11 a.m. followed by A Celebration of Life in the main hall. To read T. John Drain’s complete obituary, click here.