FOSTER
John Anthony (Jack)
May 25, 1923 ~ February 28, 2012
Jack left on the next leg of his journey on February 28, 2012 at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital from congestive heart failure which he had fought for many years. He is now reunited with his wife, Patricia (1995) and his son-in-law, Robert (1993), as well as many close family members and friends. Continuing on in Nanaimo are his daughter, Gail; granddaughter, LeeAnn (Rob and Julia); and in Victoria, his grandson, Brent (Amanda, Aidan & Gavin).
Jack was born John (Giovanni) Fuoco to Alberto and Herminia Fuoco, in Trenton, Ontario, on May 25, 1923. He loved the sea and served in both the Navy and Merchant Navy and served time aboard the HMCS Discovery, among others. Upon his discharge, he moved his family to the west coast and resided in Nanaimo, BC. He returned to the sea, sailing with the CPR coastal Princess fleet before settling on the “Marguerite” as the Chief Steward. In his position, Jack was able to work and sail among those from the bridge to the stern and the decks above and below. Jack was a strong believer in the equality of man and the importance of honour, integrity and merit in their rankings. Jack’s belief in these equalities and his desire for others to share those values, by hook or by crook, served him well during his time as local president of the Brotherhood of Railway, Airline and Steamship Clerks and, after retirement, the CP Coasters.
Jack loved his play as much as his work. His ability to raise a glass was as strong as his ability to raise spirits and whatever he decided to grow in his gardens and in his wine cellars. Jack has touched the lives of many people, families and organizations throughout his life, always without the need for recognition or fanfare. He will be deeply missed by countless friends and family. Perhaps most important of all to Jack were his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His positivity, pride, smiles and love for them was both profound and everlasting.
Through his intelligence, shrewdness, strength of character, and force of will, Jack made his own course. His course was chosen to benefit others as equally as himself. Its importance was not that it was followed heading by heading, but that those that were with you arrived at their destination as safely and as pleased with the journey as he was.
In the absence of a service or celebration, Jack’s desire was for all to say “Arrivederci” and “Adios,” in the manner in which our hearts, our minds, and our time and circumstance provides us.
A very special thank you to Dr. Tony Zuccaro for his dedication, caring and compassion to Jack over the years.