The following are a few of the condolences have been received since Jack’s death. Only the initials of senders have been used, and slight editing has been done to protect personal information of living persons.

If you would like to add a story, remembrance or condolence message please LEAVE A COMMENT on this page or click here to use the email address theirownstories@gmail.com

Messages will continue to be added  – there is NO deadline.

*****************

Where do I begin with Memories of Jack?

• Gentleness & caring – in action and in words
• Pride in his Scottish ancestry
• The morning papers – at least two every day
• The precise and measured in the way he took care of things
• Rides in the Jag
• A discerning taste when selecting pubs and pub grub
• A proud and caring father and grandfather
• An astute observer of people
• A vast knowledge of Scottish genealogy and an openness to share if asked
• The telescope and noting the arrival and departures of cruise ships
• A soothing and almost lyrical voice
• Willingness to help you whenever he could
• A great sense of humour and a dry wit
• A wonderful story teller
• And above all a true friend

From D. N., Edmonton, Alberta

^^^

Still finding it difficult to take in the fact I will not get to see Jack again, a very big influence in my life particularly in last 6-7 years, some great times over a drink or two listening to many stories, will be greatly missed, condolences to you Pat and rest of family. A.M., Calgary, Alberta

^^^

Jack was a gentle man as well as being a gentleman. How fortunate we are to have known him for however short a time. H. & J. B., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

^^^

After reading Jack’s obituary, as well as condolences, memories flooded back. And seeing his picture again was wonderful as well. Jack really did have a way of always making you feel welcome and making sure you had everything you needed. He was very knowledgeable about many things and amazingly helpful as a handyman as I realized in Ft. McMurray while trying to get a house ready to sell without the man of the house around! Jack (and Pat both) stepped in with enthusiasm and got the place whipped in to shape in no time. He was a true gentleman with a quick wit and great sense of humour. We are still having a hard time getting our heads around his passing. Our deepest sympathy to the entire family, this loss will be deeply felt. L. & D. N., Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

^^^

Words cannot explain just how sorry we are to hear of Jack’s passing. How is it possible? It seems that just a few weeks ago we were sharing a wee scotch as he straightened me out on Scottish history once again. I’ll remember his often dry wit and his very sharp mind. In a room full of people he was the one I would drift towards to enjoy his humour and stories and polite verbal jabs at me. A man’s man. Our condolences to Pat and the entire family.  From M. & K. S., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

^^^

So sad to hear about Jack. It has been so sudden for you all to take in. Kinder on Jack but so much harder for the family. You must be proud to have had such a kind gentleman as a husband. I will always remember him. Please pass on our thoughts to all the family. I know it is a very hard time for you all. You and Jack packed so much into your lives. All your travels, family visits. A lovely box of memories for everyone, including myself. LA. S., Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland

^^^

From the first time we met Jack, we were impressed by his warmth, kindness and humour, and we’ve always enjoyed our times with him. With virtual hugs, F. B. & M. Z., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

^^^

I am so sorry to hear about Jack. So shockingly quickly. It was a great privilege to know him and I am so glad that R. and I had the opportunity to meet him in the past couple of years. He had a wonderful sense of humour and that wry smile will live on in my memory of him as well as his soft and gentle voice and manner. He was a real gem and will indeed be missed by many. Thinking of you at this sad time and sending you our love, L. & R. H., London, England

^^^

I am so sorry to hear the news of Jack. The times I met him I enjoyed his company. My father talked often of the times he spent with you and Jack on the island and how well you both had treated him. He mentioned fond memories of having touring the island and having a drink in the evening with you. When things settle a bit, let me know when the wake will be held and I will try to make it. G. & J. H., Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

^^^

All we can do is offer our very heartfelt sympathy to you and all the family. We were looking forward to the day when you both came to Australia for a visit and we could relive our adventures on the river cruise. I’m pleased you at least had your Asian holiday. The wake/celebration of Jack’s life will certainly be an interesting one – just thinking of his time in Australia when he was young, he saw more of the country than most Aussies do. The only problem he would hate to miss being there with everyone to enjoy it. N. & K. M, Queensland, Australia

^^^

I am so, so sorry to hear this terrible news. I was just getting to know Jack. You had such a great partner in him. G. W., Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia, Canada

^^^

Please accept my sincere sympathy on Jacks passing. I passed this news along to my mother, who has asked me to extend her condolences to you, as she does not have e-mail any more. I know you have had a very tough year with the loss of your mother and now Jack. We are thinking of you, and hope that the memories of your years together will offer some comfort during this difficult time. H.D. & A.M., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

^^^

We were so saddened to learn that Jack passed away. We are thinking of you. Jack was such a special man, we were fortunate to know him and will always carry him in our hearts. He made everyone feel that they were special, that there was nothing else in the world that was more important than that moment in time, that connection, that intimacy, that shared laugh or story. It was a true gift. You are very much in our thoughts. J.O & G. E., Canmore, Alberta, Canada

^^^

We are very saddened to learn of Jack’s passing. He was a very fine and caring person who became known and respected as a part of our larger family. You have our deepest sympathy. R. & M. A., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

^^^

Oh that is devastating news about our dear Jack. Very hard to comprehend. And to develop so quickly! Yes it is wonderful that you did that trip. And for H. and I it was more than wonderful that we got to spend time with you both, see where you lived, be driven around in the Jaguar and hear some of Jack’s great yarns. Treasured times, now even more treasured. The last time you wrote you said he had the map of Australia in one hand and a calendar in the other. That was GOOD news.  Words inadequate at a time like this but you can be assured that we are thinking of you and sending positive energy across the Pacific. Know that there two people here in Australia who loved him very much and feel very privileged to have met him and spent time with him. He had a very special place in our hearts, as you do. We wish there was more that we could do but….

For now, much love, R. B. & H. P., Victoria, Australia

^^^

I’m so sorry to hear your news about Jack. Our condolences to you and your family. He will be greatly missed. He was such a nice fellow. Thinking of you. K. R., Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

^^^