John (Jack) Anderson Garrow Blackhall, November 20, 1923 - April 22, 2012
At age 88 Jack passed away peacefully in Powell River General Hospital on Sunday, April 22, 2012 with his children at his side.
Jack had lived on his own in the family home on Hammond Street up until five days before his death. He is survived by his loving family, daughters Susan (Walter) Thorne, Janet (Brian) Russell and son John (Monica), grandchildren Adele, Keoma, Kevin, Matthew, Darcy, David, Chloe, Philip, Emma and Hannah and five great-grandchildren.
Jack was predeceased in 2006 by his wife Dorothy of 55 years, after devoting himself to her care during her four-year stay at Evergreen Extended Care Unit.
Jack was born in North Vancouver, BC, and spent his childhood in East Vancouver, graduating from John Oliver High School in 1946. Jack enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force and became an airframe mechanic. After the war he attended the University of British Columbia and received his bachelor of science degree and teaching certificate.
Jack arrived in Powell River in July of 1950 via Union Steamship and began his teaching career at Brooks Secondary School, teaching grade seven math and science. It was there that he met his future wife, Miss Jones, the French teacher. In 1956 he moved to the “new” Max Cameron High School to teach biology and math until his retirement in 1983.
In retirement Jack enjoyed gardening, RVing, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, May 4 at 2 pm at Powell River United Church. Reception to follow in Trinity Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Powell River Community Foundation, 4721 Joyce Avenue, Powell River BC, V8A 3B5, 604.483.8678 or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.