ALDERSON, Jack (John) Russell

(August 7th, 1932 - June 1st, 2024)

On a warm sunny day, the first of June, 2024, Dad left us to join his beloved Lucille (pre-deceased). Born on August 7th, 1932, in Brussels, Ontario, to the late Winnifred Boutet and the late James Alderson, Dad was in his 92nd year. Proud father to Karen (Ger – pre-deceased) of Calgary and Lois (Larry) of Newmarket, Dad loved being Grandpa to Ashley, Brad (Melissa), Andrew, and Lawson and felt a tremendous joy when he became Great-Grandpa to Ollie and Carter.

Survived by his siblings Sheila (Richard – Spike), Sharon (Raymond – pre-deceased), Charlene (Roger – pre-deceased), Jim (Carol), Jean (Ron – predeceased), Eva (Hugh), and Jenny (Ron). It is not a surprise that Dad was a favourite amongst his many nieces and nephews and in-laws.

As a young boy, Dad moved to North Bay, where he built a rich and full life. In 1948 he began working at Aunt May’s City Bakery, delivering bread to the residents of North Bay, with a horse and wagon. He worked there until his retirement 42 years later in 1990, at which time he was driving a tractor-trailer, bringing bread to the towns of northern Ontario.

Dad married Mom in 1959, and shortly afterward, they began clearing their land and building their home on Smith’s Road, often referred to as the “house that Jack built.” He had wonderful neighbors who loved and supported him, and kept an eye on him when Mom was no longer there to keep him in line!

Dad loved music and taught himself to play the guitar, banjo, banjo-guitar, and harmonica. He enjoyed entertaining and was often found playing the guitar and singing at Legion events, and having “jam sessions” with his friend Larry and other eager participants. He continued to play his harmonica right up until his final days, bringing joy to his fellow residents at Southlake Residential Care Village in Newmarket, where he lived out his final days.

Dad enjoyed completing jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles and could spend hours working on them. He enjoyed puttering in the yard at his house, and fishing trips with Uncle Roger and Scott at Mountain Lake. He enjoyed his boat and summers spent at the Vets’ Club on Hemlock Island. He also enjoyed going to the casino, although it was Mom who usually won!

Dad was a dedicated member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 23, where he served in different roles, and on various committees, volunteering countless hours throughout the years. He proudly paraded, carrying the Legion flag, and was a loyal Sergeant at Arms. He canvassed from door to door in support of the Poppy Campaign and spent many hours at Northgate Square manning the poppy booth. Much to his daughters’ surprise, he served many a meal at the branch. In 2002, Dad was honoured with the Gordon S. Bury Memorial Award – Legionnaire of the Year, and 4 years later, he was presented with a Meritorious Service Medal. Dad was very pleased to be made a Life Member, in 2014.

Dad made friends wherever he went, and while he was not one to travel the world or take fancy vacations, he thoroughly enjoyed his trips to the Netherlands in 2000 and again in 2015, to celebrate the 55th and 70th anniversary of their liberation. He made many friends on his travels and was thrilled when they came to visit him in his home in North Bay, and later in Newmarket.

Beyond his work with the Legion, Dad was a volunteer driver for both the North Bay Parabus when it first started, and with the CNIB. He volunteered with the North Bay Civic Hospital, and also with Canadian Blood Services. He enjoyed serving others and was recognized for that.

In September of 2020, Dad said goodbye to his family and friends in North Bay and moved to Newmarket, to be close to Lois and her family. Here Dad made new friends and enjoyed much more family time. He loved food, especially things like grabbing a coffee and apple fritter at Tim’s, Chinese food at the Mandarin, ice cream from the DQ and Kawartha Dairy, and even green beer at Fionn McCools Restaurant & Pub on St. Patrick’s Day. He looked forward to Larry’s Sunday dinners and spending time with family, including the dog, Reggie.

Dad was a gentleman from a different time who recently avowed, “I have lived a good life…a life without hardship!”

The family would like to thank the gentle and caring staff at Southlake Residential Care Village who cared for and loved Dad during his final days.

A celebration of life will take place on Wednesday, July 10th at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 445 Callander ON, from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to Southlake Residential Care Village by clicking here, or to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 445, Callander, ON by calling them directly at 705-752-3773.

On-line condolences at www.roadhouseandrose.com