John "Jack" Earl White

We could use a generic template for an obituary for our brother, but he was a one of a kind guy, and so...

Jack came into this world fighting on April 3, 1960, in Montreal, Quebec, a sick little guy with a bone to pick with the powers that be that tried to keep him from this race we call life. At a young age, curiosity filled his mind and fueled his imagination, resulting in mixed emotions from Mum and Dad, both of pride, and a whole lot of fear! He tinkered with anything and everything that he could learn from. He’d take it apart, put it back together, and if it didn't work, try again. This was a constant throughout his life. Never one to brag himself up (except in fun) his desire to always learn something new, kept him smiling.  Growing up a river rat, he spent many hours on or in the water, fishing with Dad, Grampie, Uncles, cousins and friends who shared a love of nature. The island and Duncan’s Pool were his happy places as a young boy and man. Jack was always at peace and as one with Mother Nature. He missed both deeply when he moved “Out West”, and would often reflect on how lucky he had been growing up.  Art was his true passion. Around the tender age of ten, he sent a drawing into a magazine that was looking for aspiring artists and though he didn't win the prize, he was given a vote of confidence by their honourable mention, this was the beginning of a lifelong love. His work can be seen in Edson, Jasper, Scotland, England, Austria and some family homes. Most were given freely and with much love.  Jack had a wonderful sense of humour, his rapier wit and one liners left many in tears with sore sides. Stories told with flair and some embellishments were sure to bring laughter and light to everyone lucky enough to share his company. He loved to scare (prank) his nieces and nephews, tell them of make believe "guppy roaches and gollywogs", The "Headless Banshee" in the bookstore, and a Halloween funhouse none will forget!  Musically inclined and gifted, he could sing a song to touch your soul or bring you to fits of laughter. This would depend on the mood and the setting and more often than not, how many beer had been shared.  We could go on for hours with stories of our brother because he was everything to us.  His love for family by blood and by choice, was pure and honest. Loyal and fierce, he would stand with his head held high against the biggest man to protect the hearts he cherished. His love knew no bounds and it showed in his beautiful blue eyes.  Jack began his next journey on July 20, 2018, and as he wished, cremation took place in Edson, Alberta. He is survived by his loving sisters Hazel Shearer (Bev) and Helen Fraser (Jim); his beloved nephews and nieces: David, Melissa (Tylar), Jordan, Emily (Trevor) & Katie (Daniel) as well as his adoring great nieces & nephews Belle, Luke, Cooper, Opie, Connor, Avery and Natalie, all of Edson, Alberta. Jack was pre-deceased by Sharon (Walker) White (Mum) in 1989, and Garnet Paul White (Dad) in 1990; both maternal and paternal grandparents as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.  A casual get-together for family and friends will take place on September 1, 2018. This is a “bring your own chair” event LOL! For details please contact Helen 780-728-7612 or Hazel 780-712-3435.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local food bank, in Jack’s name. Thank you.
Though cancer took your life, it never took your spirit. You OWNED that bitch!
 

We love you more today than yesterday

But not as much as tomorrow

Forever and always

Always and forever 

See ya later honey

Pinky swears sweetie

XOXO

THANK YOU

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful people who contributed to the outstanding care our brother Jack White received in Edson during his battle with cancer.

Marilyn Oishi, NP and the team of Edson Home Care professionals – we couldn’t have travelled this road without you. Our love and gratitude to every one of you.

Dr. David Wannenburg; Shoppers Drug Mart team; Matt at Switzer’s ARP – for going above and beyond at a moment’s notice, we are forever grateful; and Edson Hospital staff for making Jack’s last few days as comfortable as possible.

Foothills Memorial Chapel for taking Jack into your gentle care, and for all your assistance and advice during this most difficult and emotional time.

Hazel & Helen and families

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