"Jack was a lovable rascal who I will surely miss. You always knew he had your back unless he was winning (in his mind) another argument."

— Jennifer Witteveen

"Jack was a really important person to me and I will always look up to him. He was full of life and I have so many happy childhood memories because of him. I used to get so excited when we would drive to visit in Ajax. When I tell the stories of Jack taking us on trips to Canada’s Wonderland and to the store to fill the grocery cart with any treats we asked for, my kids listen in amazement... what could be better?! He had a great sense of humour and often looked to create mischief... especially if you were taking yourself too seriously. He was also very playful… he liked puzzles and strategy and loved a good game of cards or trivia, or just to quiz you on finance. As an adult, he showed me how to be a good person. He always helped others. Always. I miss him very much and wish I had more time with him. I love you, Uncle Jack, my Godfather and favourite uncle. Thank you for everything."

— Tanya Halsall

"The world lost one of the kindest, most patient, and most generous men in the world the day Jack passed away. I often recount to other students the time he spent with me in elementary school, re-teaching me math as I’d almost failed out entirely. He was the first instructor to explain to me that I wasn’t stupid for not understanding things the other kids got right away, but that I needed to learn things in a slightly different way than they do. He changed my entire world in a day, and allowed me to feel a self-worth that I had never experienced prior. It is an attitude I took into teaching other struggling students as I went into mentoring later on, and would use him teaching me math with playing cards to explain to them how visual learning works. Through the people he has touched, taught, and spent time with, he has had an everlasting ripple effect through those who carry on the gift that was his spirit and presence. I love you Jack, I miss you, and thank-you for making me the person I am today."

— D.J. Herron

"I met Jack working at Pronto Auto Parts and all I can say is it was my pleasure working with him, he was a kind man willing to help you in anyway he could. Jack, my friend, you will be missed."

— Carm Marciello

"I didn't have the opportunity to get to know Jack well but I know that he made Erica happy. And that's what's important to me. God bless and condolences with love."

— Paul Rondeau

"He was a terrific guy and was extremely well liked both at the office by all his fellow workers but more importantly by all our customers. Even to this day I get customers asking how Jack is doing. I will miss the 'big fella'".

— Rick Grundy

"Remembering my dear friend Jack. I had the pleasure of knowing Jack and Erica for over 45 years. Jack was such a unique person. He was playful. He liked to tease, ask many questions and enjoyed lively conversations. Never a dull moment when you were with him. We met at the Royal Bank King & Ottawa branch in Kitchener. I so enjoyed working with him. Great memories from early days included a road trip planned by Jack to Ottawa for Canada day celebrations at Parliament Hill. My husband Tom drove with Jack as co pilot. Erica, Jodi and myself in the back seat. We stayed at Jack's sister home. I sat with Jack at the hospital when Dana was born. We always kept in touch over the years, including visits to London and Ajax, yearly Christmas cards and occasional phone calls. Of course Jack would debate whose turn it was to call. My last visit with Jack was here in Niagara on the Lake. Out of the blue I received a call from Jack to announce that he and Erica were coming for a visit. It was if no time had passed, right back to teasing and asking lots of questions. I shall miss my dear friend. I know that Jack is watching from above sitting in a comfy chair with his chips and pop."

— Bente Garner

"Yes, I will miss Jack very much! We often used to talk, about many things, and sometimes we didn't agree, but I think we always respected the other's opinions! Jack loved the thrust and parry of discussion, but deep down inside he also valued accord and especially the truth (as long as he was right of course)! Once or twice, our disagreements lasted for quite a while, but Jack was also essentially a very fair man. I will not forget the time though, after a particularly long period of difficulty, that Jack seemed to make a choice, as if it were the right time, to leave the past behind and to move on! It was as if he decided to welcome us back. For me it was a beautiful choice which he made. And after this moment, he made Olive and I even more welcome than before; as he very often used to say, 'You are welcome anytime'. I never forgot this moment, and to this day I very much respect him for it! Thank you Jack! Thank you for making my sister Erica happy too! And your daughters Jodi and Dana as well! And for watching TV with Linden too .. that was precious!! Who could forget that? … Most certainly I am glad and honoured to have met you! All the best dear brother in law! God bless! And Thanks again! "

— John Cunningham

"In May I lost a very very good friend, Jack. He always made me feel very welcome - like one of his family saying 'The door is always open.' On occasions he offered me very good advice knowing that it sometimes fell on a deaf ear. He enjoyed joining in puzzle making and many board games - especially when, as he very often was, on the winning team! Rest in Peace Jack, I have been very lucky to know you."

— Olive Harris

"We were friends as students in Carleton University. (Right from my first year on.) I enjoyed his presence in no small way. He even came to Rouyn-Noranda to visit me and my mom and dad. My mom remembers Jack. When I envisage him, I envisage a smile — perhaps even a smile that depicted his insight into something "not-so-smart" that I might be up to or considering. It is hard to put write in words the kind of happy, straight-shooting friendship that we had, that he would have had with others. He was loyal, an active an lively contributor to the happiness in a party — even though he would not touch a drop of alcohol!

One odd memory — when I was invited to Eric and Jack's wedding, I wore an pair of running shoes (likely the only shoes I had in Ottawa at the time). Jack took note, and wore an pair of running shoes to my wedding too.

When we got back in touch about 4 months ago — all the same feelings were there.... the candor.... I do indeed miss Jack, and the hoped for continuation of such a dear friendship."

— Nick Lukach

"I have positive memories of Jack. Such a special person and a special bond you have had, I always thought of Jack whenever I thought of you. I remember how respectful Jack was to you and to me whenever we met. May his memory be a blessing, and I wish you all the best as your life continues."

— Earl Bogoch