Grieving a loss, celebrating a life: Anglican Foundation director John Erb has died

The executive director of the Anglican Foundation, Canon John Erb, died peacefully at St. Michael’s Hospital on Sunday, July 31st around 8 pm. His family was with him at the time of his death.

In early July, Canon Erb (72) was diagnosed with a rare fatal brain disorder called Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease that affects one out of one million people. Unfortunately there is no treatment for the disease. On July 29 Canon Erb was moved into palliative care.

“John faced his illness with such bravery, and often mentioned that because of his strong faith, he was prepared to face his death without fear,” wrote June Moyle, assistant to Canon Erb in an email to Church house staff. “He was grateful to everyone who was able to come to visit or phone or send e-mails or cards or messages,” she said.

“Almost to the end of his devastating disease he was able to let us know of his love and appreciation for his life, family, friends, colleagues and his love of God,” said Ms Moyle.

Canon Erb became director of the Foundation in 1997. Each year he visited parishes supported by the Foundation’s grants and loans. Founded in 1957, the Anglican Foundation supports church renovations and bursaries for theological students among other projects.

“John was a much loved colleague at Church House, we will miss his cheerfulness and enthusiasm…our prayers are sent out to his family,” said Ellie Johnson, Anglican Church of Canada, acting General Secretary.

As executive director of the Anglican Foundation, “he has done an excellent job. He had a great passion for the Foundation,” said Ms. Johnson. His visits to different parishes were not mere travelling, but “a ministry of love, support and encouragement,” she said.

He touched so many lives in so many ways, and “for all of us who were so fortunate to know John, his absence will always be noticeable,” said Ms. Moyle.

The family is making funeral arrangements; details will be posted in the Globe and Mail.

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