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Jun 13, 1920 - Dec 3, 2017
The world lost an awesome man who lived and loved for 97 years!  Jack passed peacefully after two weeks in the Nanaimo Hospital, but before that he lived independently. 

He lost his wife of  68 years in 2012, Margaret, and leaves behind  his children: Grant (Sharon), Marian Klassen (Rick), Glen (Linda); Grandchildren Kristen Legare (Brad), Tyler Glancie (Jen), Matt (Melissa), Jeff (Shay), Laura; Great Grandchildren:  Josh, Duncan, Levi, Hannah, Paige, Ben; extended family: Ray, Marilyn, Craig and Eleanor Bowerman.

Jack grew up in Leinan, Saskatchewan with his 4 siblings, including his twin, James, who predeceased him by 1 1/2 years. Moving to Port Alberni when he was 20,  he worked at Great Central Lake, APD and the Somass Mill, excellently and proudly performing his duties as a PLIB inspector.  

At a dance, he met Margaret Stigings from Pender Island. They got married in 1944 on Pender Island on a Tuesday, because that was the day the ferry ran!  They raised their 3 children in Port Alberni;  after retirement they moved to Pender Island and in 2007 they moved to Nanaimo.   

Jack led a life of service to others, as a Sunday School Superintendent for 25 years, an active member of the Oddfellows for over 60 years, and the Lions Club for over 20 years.  Since Margaret had macular degeneration for decades, Jack was her right hand man, literally, and became proficient at cooking, cleaning, and helping Margaret with such things as reading recipes, books, and other basic tasks.

Jack was a prolific and excellent joke teller, and had many favourites through the years. His jokes were very funny, but just as funny was the way he would hiss with laughter after telling the jokes. He was never late for anything in his life!  In his last few years he collected pennies and put them in collectors books for each member of the family. He tackled everything he did with dedication and hard work. 

Jack will be remembered for his keen wit and sense of humour, service to others and the adoration he had for his wife and family. 

He will be truly missed, but after 97 great years, it was time for him to join Margaret.

In memory of Jack, please consider some acts of kindness this Christmas season.      

Online Condolences; www.mem.com



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