Jack passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on May 5th at 3:22 pm in the arms of his family, in his home and on his terms. He was born in New Westminster to parents Helen and Cliff Julseth on November 20, 1954. He was the precious brother to sisters Dona Young (Mladen) and Kathleen Julseth-White (Hance). Jack was a remarkable man, husband, father, and his favourite title of all, Papa. He is survived by Teresa, his wife of 46 years; daughters, Becky (Andrew) and Trisha (Ian) and his 4 adored grandchildren, Tristan, Jordyn (Jojo), Hudson and Hanna. He will also be remembered by his cousins, nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.
In his young adulthood, Jack started working on the tugs for Rivtow Straits which cemented his love of boats and the ocean throughout his life. Soon after Jack discovered the car business in Vancouver. In 1983 he moved to Victoria, with his young family, to join Three Point Motors, the Mercedes dealership. His love of people and passion for cars was the perfect fit. After a few years he became the dealer principal and enjoyed many achievements. He often said his greatest achievement in the car business was the relationships he created with his staff and customers. In the late nineties Jack was struck by the real estate development bug and ventured to Phoenix where he spent a decade creating his visions. He brought that real estate bug back to Vancouver Island and continued realizing his visions in the Victoria area. Eventually he discovered Port Renfrew which became his passion and focus for the rest of his life. His legacy will live on in the spaces he built, the businesses he created and in the lives of the young people he loved and helped get established.
Jack’s curiosity and creativity seeded an incredible variety of endeavors over his years, and his accomplishments are too numerous to list. A few of the highlights include his Mercedes-Benz, Porsche-Audi and Subaru dealerships, as well as launching the first SMART car dealership in Canada. He earned Mercedes-Benz ‘Dealer of the Year’ for Canada for several years running. His passion for innovative affordable housing led him to create several supportive housing developments for VIHA, of which he was very proud. He was also responsible for the vision and execution of the remediation of the Bamberton cement factory lands, which at the time was the largest ever privately-funded environmental remediation project in British Columbia.
Jack’s motto, which so many who worked with him continue to draw inspiration from, was “Just be nice to each other and do the right thing”. He touched many lives with his kindness, generosity and love. Always an optimist, he believed that anything was possible. His dreams and visions were huge and he inspired many. To know Jack was to love Jack. His light will shine on through the eyes of his precious daughters, grandchildren and all those whose lives he touched.
A special thanks to Dr. Kevin Wade and Dr. Howard Joe who went over and above with compassion and kindness. We are forever grateful.
Celebration of life details to follow. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the BC Cancer Agency.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Barry Cosgrave
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Al Carter I first met Jack in 1980 at “Automart” in Vancouver and just wanted to work for him as he had such a
confident, you can do it attitude that you were capable of more than you thought you could do.
That same helpful confidence came through at one time at a car dealership he had at Canada way and Edmonds in New west, when a young employee was up 16 ft on a ladder when the ladder fell down leaving the employee stranded hanging on, Jack came out and shouted LET GO WE’LL CATCH YOU !!,and sure enough, let go he did and Jack with some help caught the employee and safely got him on the ground to great applause.
I moved on and lost touch until some time in 1996 when I again ended up working for Jack at Three point motors, again enjoyed his enthusiasm and forward vision. Wonderful man and employer — you will be missed .Condolences to Theresa, Trish and Becky. Rest in peace Jack.
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Jeff Simpson What a huge loss. My friendship with Jack dates back to when I sold him and his dear wife an oceanfront condo in Nuevo Vallarta – and he sold me on the idea of moving to Arizona – and we went on to develop two very successful projects together. I miss our times together; the giggles; the business lunches; and his never-ending appetite to be negotiating deals. My heart-felt condolences to Teresa and the family. Jack, you made an indelible impression on me and my appreciation for you will never stop, Jeff
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Robert Ball My memories of Jack are having a lot of fun together leading Context programs, miming “To All the Girls I’ve loved before” as Willie Nelson and Julio Iglesias and performing the Monty Python skit “The Four Yorkshiremen”. He was a dear friend and colleague with infectious energy. He is sorely missed in my heart and many many others. All my love to Teresa and family.
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Dawn Metcalf My sincere condolences to Teresa and the family. Teresa, Jack, and I attend NWSS, but I didn’t get to know Jack well. I knew him by reputation… kind,
brave, innovative, and loyal. From a distance I feel the loss of a good man in the world.
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Marcia Hower So sorry to hear of Jack’s passing, Teresa. He was such a go-getter and always smiling. He helped us realize a true dream in Renfrew. My thoughts are with you and your family.
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Debbie Brown Jack, a man whose courage in battling cancer was matched only by his boundless love for his family.
My brother in law was not only the best husband, father to Becky and Trisha, Papa to his grandbabies, but a cherished mentor to my own children. His laughter, his playful antics (although sometimes embarrassing) brought such joy to everyone especially his grandchildren, and his wisdom instilled values of kindness, respect and love in all who knew him.
Jack’s legacy will live on in so many hearts forever.
His words of “be kind and love” will be remembered by so many.
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Ross and Evelyn Tennant So sorry for your loss Theresa, Becky, and Trisha. Jack was a wonderful man! His generous spirit, quick mind, and great sense of humour are some of the many qualities that come to mind when I think of him. I feel fortunate for the times that we shared.
Ross and Evie
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Carol Ogden (Douglas) Dona: Thinking of you and all your family at this time. I have fond memories of all the fun we had as neighbours and friends playing inside and outside our homes on Amess Street in New Westminster with our brothers and sisters, including your little brother Jack. Sending many condolences to you and all your family.
With deepest sympathy,
Carol
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Rob mallett The Julseth family: I’m Very sorry for your loss! My condolences ! I met Jack at a young age in Sapperton ( New Westminster ) A few years later he joined us in the car business! Jack had a infectious personality and was destined for success!! I’m very disappointed I never reached out all these years later! R.I.P. Jack ! Rob Mallett !
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Gordie Jung Sorry to hear about your loss Thersea, my condolences to you and your family.
Gordie Jung
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Jack Basey I only met him in the development business a few times but was impressed with his interpersonal skills.Truly a man who could put you at ease in his presence. A loss for Victoria . Jack Basey
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Don Brown Jack was a great guy. I don’t think I ever saw him when he wasn’t smiling. My sincere condolences to the family.
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Lynne Torgalson So sorry for your loss. I remember Jack from when my husband Gerry worked with him at 3 Point Motors. We shared some good times. Sending love and hugs.❤️
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Alan Butler Jack started making waves in tug boats as a young man and continued making waves for the rest of his life. The positive energy of those waves swept over everyone whoever met or worked with Jack, and carried many to better places. I had the pleasure of working with Jack at Three Point Motors and got a first hand view of this force of nature in action. He was an inspiration to many and a thoroughly decent human being. Condolences to Theresa and all who loved him.
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Ernest and Angela Dear Teresa, Becky, Trisha and family
I was so saddened to hear the news of Jack’s passing. My heart goes out to you and please accept our deepest condolences. When I received Teresa’s message, my thoughts went to the first time I met Jack. I remembered thinking “this guy is truly one of a kind”. Although his intellect, curiosity, creativity, vision and love of life was obvious from the outset, what made Jack truly great was his love for people. Jack’s ability to make friends with and garner the respect and affection from people in all stations in society is a reflection of his essential character and a legacy of his life.
Clearly, his years of success in the car business and building Three Point garnered him much respect in business circles, but what I admired most about him whenever I spent time with him is the kindness and respect with which he treated everyone he interacted with, regardless of social station or economic status.
And above all, I could see the deep love he always had for Teresa. He shared with me several times, how much he loved you, and I knew his love for you, that had sparked in childhood and forged over decades of friendship and marriage since youth, was extremely special, even transcendent. His love, loyalty and commitment to you and your girls was truly inspiring
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Ernest and Angela
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Marianne Gadban Dear Theresa and family,
I just wanted to send my condolences to you. I have very special memories of Jack and yourself and Simon and I . He was a wonderful , kind and caring man .
Marianne Gadban
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Norman Eden Dear Theresa and family
I was so sorry to hear of your losing Jack . Jack and I would meet for lunch and discuss of course the Realestate market but he would always talk about how much he loved and enjoyed his family especially taking his grandkids and family on the boat on the waters off Renfrew . Jack was always upbeat and happy and was always smiling and enjoyed his life to the fullest . I will miss jack and our good conversations over lunch . He was a true gentleman and inspired many. God bless you and your family. Farewell my friend we will meet again in heaven .
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Ian Howie Working for Mercedes-Benz Canada I had the pleasure and privilege of knowing Jack for many years. Always a great guy who cared about everybody and everything. Many fond memories.
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Judy & Brent Russell Dear Theresa and Family,
We knew you and Jack at the Pursuit of Excellence almost 25 years ago and you made such a wonderful couple. So saddened to read the news of Jack’s passing. He still held a special place in
our hearts. I found him very endearing and he had the best sense of humour. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
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Gordon Dycke I worked with Jack at Three Point Motors for many years and just want to say that he was a remarkable man. My wife Marilynn and I will always have many found memories of him and It was a pleasure to have been a part of his life. Like many of us he will be missed dearly. Our condolences to Teresa, Becky, Trisha and family.
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Michelle Mahovlich Teresa , Becky and Trish
Jack was truly a gentleman. He gave me so many opportunities. I truly enjoyed my time at Bamberton. Especially the history of that site. I hope you are so very proud of this amazing man
Michelle
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Pat & Gary Kehl Theresa, so sorry to read of Jack’s passing. We were next door neighbours when you renovated your home on Newport Avenue. We send our condolences at this very sad time.
Pat & Gary Kehl
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Leslie Duncan Dear Teresa and Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
Jack was a very special person.Wishing
you peace at this difficult time.Leslie Duncan and Nicole Roberts
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Ross Porter Jack was my first employer when I was in high school back in the late 80s. I have many fond memories of him, his family, and time spent working around their homes and the dealership. I have held onto many valuable insights and lessons he imparted. My sincerest condolences to Teresa, Becky, and Trisha.
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Ian Vantreight Jack was a good, caring and very creative Man, who positively affected many, myself being one, with a number of his ventures. One of which I’m a proud Owner of one of his cottages he first built in Port Renfrew. He would make himself available and truly wanted to hear what others said and would always help, generously.
I will remember Jack, fondly. Gone too soon, but will never be forgotten.
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Brent Mackay Sharon and I had a visit with Jack three weeks ago. Although many years had passed since we had been together, it was a truly wonderful visit. We hugged, laughed, cried, and reminisced.
Jack will always have a special place in our hearts.
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Dave Osmond So sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. I really enjoyed Jack’s sense of humour and our time working together in Arizona as well as in Victoria. Sincere condolences to all the family.
Dave Osmond. Parksville. BC.
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dan hager Godspeed, Jack. You shared your Port Renfrew adventure with us and I will be forever grateful.
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Jim Nicholl Like many, I knew Jack through Three Point Motors where I bought two Mercedes cars in the 80s and 90s. He was such a pleasure to be with any time I had dealings with him. What I remember most was his infectious sense of humour and boyish charm in those dealings. He brought a youth and vigor to Victoria’s traditionally staid, conservative Mercedes dealership that everyone in the city appreciated. Like many, I will miss him.
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Gabriel Neacsu Dear Theresa and family,
With deep sadness and I’m writing this note in the memory of Jack. I remember Jack for his witty sense of humor, his generosity, love for his family and friends.
I remember the first time we met in Vancouver at your home changing Becky’s diapers and cracking jokes about it. The beautiful moments we spent together with our families in Hawaii vacation and all the fun times in Vancouver, Victoria and Arizona. I’m so sorry for your loss and the pain that entire family is going through. He will forever stay in my heart.
My sincere condolences!!!Gabriel
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Miriam My son Neil was one of the many young people who Jack mentored and inspired with his creative approach to life, as well as business. I will be forever grateful for the love, knowledge and experience he shared with Neil, especially his infectious zest for “the project”. My love to Teresa, Trish and Becky.
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Leslie Rowe-Israelson A Bright Shining Light in this world and now beyond . You lit up a room with that famous Jack smile and beautiful soul. RIP my dear dear friend. We are all better people from just knowing you . Teresa and family just know we are here for you .
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Steve Clark Really really good person and family
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Rose McDonald Jack was truly a gentle gentleman who always had a smile. I enjoyed working with Jack and believe he will be developing some great new adventures wherever he is.
My condolences to the family as words can ease the heart ache you feel at this time, so cherish the memories and keep his memory alive.
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Dottie Brady So very sorry to hear of the loss of your dearest Jack
He was a wonderful person and loved his family so much
He’s soaring with the angels now and will watch down on you always ♥️
Rest in peace Jack
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Jane Jorgenson His Infectious personality and graciousness will always be in everybody’s hearts. Was lucky enough to have a weekend at Port Renfrew where we were treated like royalty and Jack brought the place to life, a weekend to remember, may you soar with the eagles Jack.
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Ruth jarvie Dear Theresa and beautiful family of your’s and Jack’s. What a lovely man, no one in the world had that smile and the look that said “Everyone is important to me”!
Mom, Margaret Engelquist, said “I have prayed for Jack every night for years, he was a dear boy”.
Love Ruth and Tom Jarvie
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Laurie Spindor What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man that truly made a difference in this world.
My sincere condolences to Jack’s entire family and all the people whose life he touched.
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Wendy Smith So very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences.
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Janice Parry Theresa I’m thinking of you and your family and sending my love. Jacks motto “Just be nice to each other and do the right thing” is what I teach students every single day. I didn’t know Jack well but I’m impressed by all of his accomplishments. He touched a lot of people and that’s so special. ❤️
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Shayne Jessop I have known Jack for almost 50 years and our times together in friendship and business have been some of the most rewarding years of my life. We truly felt we were brothers and we shared the best laughs and the best cries. My wife, Donna, and I feel such a part of the family and we will miss him dearly. Farewell my friend…I promise to live up to your motto. Love ya buddy!
Shayne
Jack was a true gentleman, generous with his time and supporting teams working on his various construction projects. He had great vision and determination. “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Thank you Jack for all you did.
Barry