John has been a resident of the Town of Clarenville for 45 years, and is a native of the Burin Peninsula. He graduated from Marystown Central High School in June of 1969. From there he attended Memorial University in St. John’s and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Social Work in December of 1973. In January of 1974 John started his career as a Social Worker in Baie Verte with the Provincial Government eventually moving to Clarenville in 1980. In 1998, with Government restructuring, John became an employee of the Eastern Regional Health Authority and remained in a management role with them until his retirement in March 2017 after 43 years of public service.

John has served as a member of the Clarenville Town Council from 1998 to 2005, 2009 to 2013 and 2017 to 2021. In September 2021, John ran for the position of Mayor and was elected to the position.

In 2017, John was recognized as one of the 150 Faces of Clarenville for his measurable impact on the Town through his contribution, accomplishments, commitment, and perseverance.

In March 2025, John was awarded “The King Charles III Medal” in honour of many years of volunteer community service by the Member of Parliament for the District of Bonavista-Burin-Trinity.

John is married to his wife Holly and has two children, Lori and Michael.