John William "Willy" Pullen

John William "Willy" Pullen, a revered leader, devoted family man, and master storyteller, sailed on to the next journey on December 16, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 19, 1949, in Victoria, British Columbia, Willy lived a life that was as rich and vast as the waters he navigated, leaving behind a legacy deeply rooted in public service and a profound commitment to family.

Willy first went to sea as a teenager and worked on a whaling vessel, then joined the Canadian Coast Guard as an able seaman, serving on the icebreaker Labrador for years. Willy’s professional sea life began at the Canadian Coast Guard College, where he earned his degree in Nautical Science from 1974-1979. He rose to the rank of First Officer, serving on Canada's 3 coasts in the ice breakers Sir John A MacDonald and Louis St. Laurent. He also held a Coast Guard Command certificate. On leaving the Canadian Coast Guard in the 1980s,he joined the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve and was given the rank of Lieutenant Commander, recognizing his long track record of respected sea service and dedication to serving his country.

After receiving a Master's degree in Public Administration from Carleton University, Willy transitioned into academic, consulting and leadership roles, in 1988 becoming a founding faculty member of the Canadian Centre for Management Development where he worked for several years . In the mid 90s Willy ran his own successful consulting business, working in many different departments of the federal government and RCMP, providing organizational leadership support. He went on to serve as Executive-in-Residence at the Centre for Public Management and Policy at O’Dell House, University of Ottawa from 2010-2024. He shone in this role, and his unique and instrumental contributions to developing senior leaders within Canada’s public sector were highly regarded. Ever an ongoing learner, Willy added to his credentials by qualifying as a Project Management Professional and Master Human Capital Strategist. His scholarly writing included authoring numerous academic papers on all aspects of leadership, and two books on Pullen family members who served in the First and Second World War. In October, Willy gave his last talk at the Cochrane (AB) Public Library, where he spoke on ‘Searching For Franklin’ – a subject which he had a deep knowledge of, as two Pullen ancestors captained ships looking for Sir John Franklin – he was in his element weaving the history of that search to a captive audience.

Beyond the remarkable career that defined his professional life, Willy was a humble man known for his grit, grace, and humor. He had an innate ability to change lives, a quality that shone brightly throughout his interactions. With a profound love for history, particularly naval lore, he was the family and naval historian. Willy often regaled family and friends with captivating tales, enriching their lives with stories of the sea and of 'Big Hill,' the family home in Chester Basin, Nova Scotia. He was a true Blue Water Mariner, whose spirit was forever anchored in the love of the sea. As a devoted dog lover and walker, he also found immense pleasure in the companionship of his beloved dog, Widget, a Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen.

Within the warmth of his family, Willy took immense pride in his role as a mentor to his daughter, Sarah, guiding her with wisdom and love. He shared special moments with his granddaughter, Margo, where his masterful ability for 'the glance' fostered a connection that transcended words. Willy is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Julia Gordon, whose partnership was a testament to their shared journey. He also leaves behind his son-in-law, Andrew Hayes, as well as his siblings: Helen Cathcart, Frances Gregor (Ron), Margo Sly, and Tinker "Amy" McKay (John). He is also remembered fondly by his sister-in-law, Gill Pullen, 15 nieces and nephews, and many friends and colleagues who were touched by his kindness and leadership.

His passing marks the end of an era, intersecting with the profound losses of his mother, Helen Pullen (née McKean), his father, Ret. Rear-Admiral Hugh Francis Pullen, OBE, CD, RCN, his brother Major Hugh F Pullen, sister Sarah McLoughlin, and brothers-in-law Richard Cathcart and Brian McLoughlin, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

A celebration of Willy's remarkable life will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 10:00 am Eastern Standard Time, at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre at the Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave., Ottawa, ON). For those not able to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax (https://maritimemuseum.novascotia.ca) or to a charity of your choice.