Masters on guard at graveside
[Brampton, Ontario – May 10, 2016] A large number of family and friends paid their respects to Johnny Bujan before his funeral service at Brampton Crematorium and Visitation Centre on Tuesday (May 10, 2016). Most then gathered for his burial at Meadowvale Cemetery. Johnny Bujan was best known in Canadian cricket circles for his efforts in creating Brampton Masters Cricket Club and leading them to the top of the Toronto and District Cricket Association. Johnny also served as Manager of Cricket Canada’s national team in recent years.
During the funeral service, Minister Rev. Rodger Hunter admitted he had not met Johnny in person. But, based on what family and friends had said in recent days, and from the large number of young people in attendance Johnny’s “organizational skills” and involvement in sports “will be celebrated for years.”
As the day unfolded, I remembered seeing Brampton Masters in playoff action in the Canadian Commonwealth Cricket Association at Keele Reservoir a number of years ago and of the PCB shirts in the Toronto and District Cricket Association. Several players who have appeared in West Indies regional competitions and for Masters over the years attended the service. It was clear how deep was their appreciation of Johnny’s efforts. Equally clear was the depth of feeling of several players who rose through Canada’s junior international team into the senior team in the last 10 or so years.
A sizeable group of these players stood, inwardly bleeding the blue of their Masters shirts in their hearts, at the graveside as earth filled in the gap above Johnny Sean Bujan’s coffin. An innings brought to a sudden, early end that left family and friends from many walks of life standing in silence by the graveside, long after the burial committal had ended.
As the service was about to begin inside Brampton Crematorium and Visitation Centre, someone cried out “I can’t believe it.” A tough day for many. Particularly tough on Johnny’s parents, especially his mother who brought him into this world, as his sister said.
Rest in peace, Johnny Bujan.