John Deveau, a devoted family man, former Nova Scotia MLA, and lifelong Toronto Blue Jays enthusiast, had always harbored a dream of watching his favorite team play in person. Tragically, a sudden fatal aneurysm in July shattered that dream. However, his wife, Carol Deveau, carrying John’s ashes and sharing his passion for the game, turned that dream into reality this month.
Donning the very Blue Jays jersey John cherished for over 15 years, Carol was present in the stands with a small container of his ashes and his obituary during the Jays’ games against the Boston Red Sox on September 24 and 25. Expressing her gratitude, she remarked, “They did a wonderful job, my husband would be so proud of them.”
John had been battling heart issues for some time, and after receiving clearance from their doctor in June, Carol purchased tickets for the games with the intention of surprising him. However, she couldn’t keep the secret and shared the news with him. Overwhelmed with joy, John welled up with tears upon learning of the surprise.
Despite never having the opportunity to attend a live game, John’s unwavering support for the Blue Jays was evident. Carol mentioned how he would passionately cheer on the team while watching from home, knowing every player and enthusiastically offering strategic advice.
During the games at Rogers Centre, Carol upheld this tradition by holding up John’s obituary picture and ashes whenever the Blue Jays were at bat, allowing him to continue sharing his love for the game in spirit.
Although the Blue Jays faced defeats in the first two games against the Red Sox, they clinched a resounding victory in the third game with a 6-1 score. Carol expressed her elation at witnessing the win, describing it as a moment akin to a divine blessing. She felt John’s presence beside her, rooting for the team with the same fervor.
Recognized as a remarkable individual within the community, John dedicated his post-retirement years to volunteering with the Special Olympics and at the Tabitha Centre, a local outreach program. Carol highlighted John’s role in instilling a love for sports in their family, emphasizing his unwavering support for their children and grandchildren in all their sporting endeavors.
As anticipation mounts in Toronto for the American League Division Series, where the Blue Jays will face either the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees, Carol remains a staunch supporter from Nova Scotia, believing that John continues to watch over and support the team from beyond.
“He was at that game and he’s with them throughout the series now,” she affirmed.