December 17, 1929 - October 8, 2022
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of John (Jack) Withers on October 8, 2022, at the age of 92.
Left with loving memories are his wife of 57 years, Mary Carol (nee Halley), sons, John and Nick (wife Heather), daughter Karen (husband Dr. Nicolaas Janssen) and his pride and joy, his grandchildren Nico, Noah, Jack, Lauren and Hollyn. He will also be missed by his sister-in-law Patricia Halley and his numerous nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his loving parents, Edward John Withers and Mary Withers (nee DeBourke), brothers, Robert (Bob), Edward Charles (Ted) and sisters, Marie Labelle, Doreen Chamberlain, Joan Colford, and Barb Dobbin.
Sports played a huge part in Jack's life with his true passion being hockey and baseball. Some may remember "The Little Professor" as he was nicknamed, as one of the most gentlemanly hockey players in Newfoundland in the 1940s and 50s, captaining St. Pat's to two Boyle Cup championships. He was very proud to be elected to the Newfoundland Sports Hall of Fame for Hockey and Baseball in 1987.
Jack will be remembered as an incredible father and a doting grandfather with unparalleled patience and love for his children and grandchildren. His great joy in life Included watching Nico's ballet performances, Lauren and Hollyn play soccer, seeing his namesake, Jack, grow into a responsible young man in the military reserves and spending Saturday evenings with Noah attending Mass and listening to him read, followed by the occasional trip to their favourite fast food spot, Wendy's.
Jack was still driving and going to the gym into his late 80s. Sadly, the last year and a half he had been battling dementia but will be remembered as a gentleman, a family man and a number one "Poppy".
"A limb has fallen from our family tree that says Grieve not for me,
Remember the best times,
the laughter, the songs,
The good life I lived while I was strong." ... Anonymous
The family will be holding a Memorial Service at a later date to allow for loved ones from afar the opportunity to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or a charity of your choice.