Jack passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at his home in Victoria B.C. on January 2, 2022 at the age of 87.
Jack was born February 14, 1934 and was raised in Calgary, Alberta, attending Holy Angels and St. Mary’s schools and later Mount Royal College before moving to Victoria, B.C. There he raised his family and immersed himself in the St. Patrick’s and Holy Cross church communities. He had a successful career in business management, and always enjoyed good humour, people, scouts, hockey and later golf, vacations and classic movies.
He was a man devoted to his family and faith. When recently ask by a grandson doing a university project interview on his life for any final thoughts, he said, “It’s important, I think, to be honest. Look after your people. I’ve looked after mine.” That was Jack and was evidenced by him and Joan gathering family from across the country for reunions in Tofino every other year beginning more than twenty years ago.
Jack is survived by five children: John (Catherine Kinsella), grandchildren Brennan and Sarah; Bill Woodward; Bob (Lara), grandchildren Hannah and Lauchlan; Brenda, grandchildren Chantal (Ryan Crowder and great grandchildren Elena, Luca), Christian Aubin and Nathalie (Nick Forman); and Diana Strandberg(Peter Leggatt), grandchildren Tyler and Nicholas. He was predeceased by his wives Rose and Joan and sisters Helen, Irene, Byrne and Betty.
Due to the COVID pandemic restrictions, there will only be a service for immediate family, with a broader Celebration of Life gathering to be scheduled at a later date. If desired, memorial tributes can be made to the Victoria Hospice Society.
Condolences to the family may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Lynn Crandon
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Michelle McArthur Thinking of you all. Uncle Jack loved his family more than anything. During our visits, he would show us photos of his grandchildren, great grandchildren and share stories of your adventures to Tofino, Hawaii and beyond. I’ll always remember his excellent sense of humour, welcoming demeanour and when he would sneak you a little wink, which always reminded me of my grandma Betty . Sending love,
Michelle and Dave
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Ann Phillips Our most sincere condolences to the family. Great Uncle Jack was a wonderful person. Always pleasant and fun to be with and talk to. I know he will be missed dearly by all. Rest in peace Uncle Jack. Our thoughts and prayers for the family on this day.
Ann (Reshetylo) Phillips
– grandaughter of Helen Pellitier
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William Hann Jack McDonald you were one of the best! We at Saint Patrick’s and Holy Cross are grateful for your life of service to faith, family and community. Rest in peace!
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Pat Bancroft (Hatchman) Condolences to the whole family. Special love sent to Diana. Diana and my daughter, Pam, spent many happy moments with John. I also got to know him at Cordova Bay 55 Plus. He was always talking about his children and grandchildren— with great pride.
Pat Bancroft (Hatchman)
Jack, we will miss you! You would come in all grumbly but your kind spirit always shone through, and we always enjoyed seeing you. Sincere condolences to those still here, missing him every day. He was a good guy with a good heart.
Sincerely,
Lynn & John Antonsen