Jack passed away peacefully early September 2, 2011, at the Grand Forks Boundary Hospital, with his son Bob and friend Win close by.
Dad was predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Elsie (Franson); his brother, George; his stepson, Joe Vaas; and his second wife, Margaret (Vaas). He leaves behind his sister, Annette (Don) Marshall; his sons, Bob (Linda) and Tracy (Heather); daughter, Kathy; five step-daughters: Bette (Steve) Mitchell, Phyllis (Bruno) Pavan, Francis Keopke, Monica Jackson and Pat (Art) Lang.
Dad was born at Silverton, B.C., on December 25, 1917, to Ernest and Barbara Hacking. He joined the Army in 1939 and then the RCAF where he was stationed in England until his honourable discharge on October 2, 1945. In 1950 he went to work with the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Highways until his retirement in 1982, at which time he and Margaret retired to Grand Forks.
A special thank you to Win Blanchard who took such good care, first of Mom and then of Dad. More than a caregiver, she is a true friend. Bless you Win.
Dad’s favourite things were Margaret, canoeing, pancakes and a cold beer after a long paddle on Christina Lake (and not necessarily in that order!). Paddle on Dad, paddle on.
Donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Society of British Columbia, #300, 828 West 8th Ave, Vancouver, B.C., V5Z-1E2.