REAY, John Joseph “Jack”

October 28, 1938 — February 6, 2022

Jack left us peacefully on Sunday, February 6, 2022, at age 83, with his partner and friend Elaine Bolter at his side, having lived a full and rich life. He was predeceased by his parents John and Catherine Reay, his sister Lorraine, and his beloved wife Laura, who was always in his thoughts. Jack is survived by his son Glenn (Vanessa), his daughter Janice, and his two granddaughters Sarah and Natalie (Sylvie), of whom he was immensely proud. Jack will be sadly missed by his sister Joan, his many nieces and nephews from the Warren and Suter families who he admired greatly, and by Elaine’s daughters and their families who so enjoyed getting to know Jack over the last 10 years.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, MB, Jack loved all sports, in particular football and curling at which he excelled. Early in life, he followed his father’s musical gift and mentorship, becoming a nationally recognized bag pipe player and teacher. It was the great passion of his life. Over the years Jack was a member of some of Canada’s finest pipe bands, including the RCAF 402 Squadron Pipe Band, the Winnipeg Police Pipe Band, the Calgary Police Pipe Band, and more recently an honoured member of the Kelowna Pipe Band Society. One of the great moments of his life was playing at the Edinburgh, Scotland Tattoo in 2007 as part of the Canadian Massed Pipes and Drums contingent. Jack had a distinguished career with the Winnipeg Police Service, followed by a successful career in the construction industry alongside his brother-in-law Ken Warren, before finally finishing off his working years as a security manager with Manitoba Lotteries.

Jack leaves a wide array of friends and acquaintances from his many travels, as his greatest gift was his remarkable ability to tell a story, laugh, or just enjoy the moment he was in. He loved to talk, and when it was time to go, he’d continue to talk, endearing him to many. Jack would never forget a name and would always make you feel like he genuinely enjoyed spending time with you, no matter what the occasion. Over the years he was part of a number of community groups and organizations in the varied places he lived and as a result bettered the lives of many along the way. He would regularly play his pipes at community events, funerals, social functions, and in times of need, touching the lives of many while doing so.

A special thanks to Dr. Larry Bobyn and his staff, as well at the many talented caregivers at Kelowna General Hospital and Hospice House Kelowna for their professionalism and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity of your choice in Jack’s memory would be welcome.

Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held later this year at Glen Eden Memorial Gardens in Winnipeg.

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