November 11, 1919 – April 12, 2016
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear dad, granddad, great granddad on April 12th, 2016 at Echo Village. Predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years Phyllis (December 17, 2002), son-in-law Ted Towe (April 9, 2003), and his sister, Nancy Murphy. Jack is also predeceased by his caring partner of 11 years Flo Stern (September 11, 2014). Dad is survived by his sister Winnie Wadey; his daughter Helen Towe, her children Joanne (Graham) Towe and Jenna Towe; daughter Sharon (Jim) Towe and their children Karla (Kevin) Mackenzie and Kameron (Andrea) Towe, his great-grandchildren Kelsey, Tanner, Tayler, Ryder, and Presley; and nieces, nephews and extended family.
Born in Marlborough, England, Jack came to Canada at the age of six and lived on a farm in Saskatchewan. He moved to British Columbia to start working with Alberni Pacific Lumber (APD). In 1941, he joined the army and served as a sergeant with the Rocky Mountain Rangers and was stationed on the Aleutian Islands. Upon his return, he worked for Bloedel, Stewart and Welch in a chipper plant before starting his career as a school bus driver and retiring as superintendent of interior operations.
Jack was very involved in his community where he sat on the board for the amalgamation of Port Alberni and Alberni. He was a member of the Free Masons of Euclid Lodge #158, the Independent Order of Foresters, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293, the Curling Club, and the Alberni Golf Club, where he helped designe “Jack’s Loop”. Both Phyllis and Jack participated in many Seniors Games.
Following Jack’s wishes, a private family interment will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in the Field of Honour followed by a Memorial Tea at 1:00pm on Wednesday, April 27, 2016, at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293, 4680 Victoria Quay, Port Alberni, BC, V9Y 6G5. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Echo Village or a charity of your choice.
Stories and condolences may be left for the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca A special thank you to the staff of Echo Village for their kindness throughout Jack’s stay as well as family and friends who offered their support to Jack.