John Archibald

In Loving Memory of John Archibald

December 2, 1952 – October 19, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that the family of John Archibald announces his passing on October 19, 2026, at the age of 73.

John was born on December 2, 1952, in Thunder Bay, Ontario. In 1975, he moved west from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, with his beloved Beverly and her three children, Ron, Dennis, and Angelica. Together, they settled in Coalhurst, Alberta, where they built their life and family. In 1981, they welcomed their son, Matthew, and on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1986, John and Beverly were married.

Throughout his life, John was a hardworking and resourceful man. He worked at Glass-Con building boats and later owned and operated his own fibreglass business.

John had a lifelong passion for the outdoors, particularly hunting, which eventually led him to become a hunting guide. He could often be found walking for miles through the wilderness in his trusty Cougar boots, with a cigarette hanging from his mouth. He was a skilled hunter, and his friends fondly remember the time he beat everyone out of bed and returned to camp with a bull elk in the back of his truck before the others had even started their day.

Despite his rugged outdoorsman nature, John had a softer side, especially when it came to animals. He had a particular fondness for the barn cats, occasionally sneaking them inside the cabin and treating them to hot dogs, even though they weren’t supposed to be indoors.

John had an adventurous spirit and a sense of humour that made for plenty of memorable stories. Family dirt biking adventures were a regular occurrence, often ending with someone needing stitches—sometimes John himself, who never quite mastered the art of the tuck and roll.

John valued the friendships he built throughout his life. To many, he was more than a friend; he was a mentor, a father figure, and someone they could depend on. He welcomed others into his home, shared what he had, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His friendships were filled with laughter, adventures, and stories that will continue to be told for years to come.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Beverly Anne Archibald, who passed away on February 2, 2022; his parents, Bob and Vi Archibald; and his brothers, Patrick, Harry, and Robert Archibald.

He leaves behind his children, Ron Zucchiatti (Cori), Dennis Zucchiatti (Laurel), Angelica Zucchiatti (James), and Matthew Archibald (Jessica); his grandchildren, Patience Zucchiatti-Lea (Scott), Scarlett Jones, Kaylee Zucchiatti, Jayden, and Phoebe; and his two great-grandsons, Brodie and Tate.

John will also be fondly remembered by his brothers, Jerry, Gene (Brigette), and Steve (Kate); his sisters, Edie (Fred) and Trudy (Ken); along with his extended family, lifelong friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

John leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories. From adventures in the wilderness to the simple moments shared with family and friends, his life will continue to be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.