The world is an emptier place after the passing of our beloved Jack Lees. Jack was a funny, witty, intelligent and interesting man, always quick with a quip and the ability to make everyone laugh.
Born in Guelph in 1937, Jack grew up in Brampton with his parents, sister Elsie and brother Bob. After moving to Toronto for work, Jack met Mary Tabone in 1961, and they fell in love. They married in 1963, welcomed Greg in 1966, Michael in 1968, and finally, Jennifer in 1973. We were fortunate enough to gather the family and celebrate Jack and Mary's 60th anniversary this past September 7th.
Life with Jack was a good one. The house was filled with laughter, although sometimes also a strong measure of caution, as Jack worked in Health and Safety for the majority of his career. His early years in sales showcased his personality also, as people were genuinely drawn to him and he was a natural socializer.
Jack retired from Metro Toronto after 20+ years as a Health and Safety manager, where he was popular and highly regarded. He often held court at the end of the bar at his favourite hangouts after work, regaling friends and strangers alike with his unique brand of storytelling. Jack was fun.
His last few years were challenging for him and his family. A fall led to his residence at True Davidson Acres in Toronto, where he became the star of the floor and made many friends. We were blessed that Jack never forgot who he was, or who we all were.
Jack was a devoted husband, a loving and caring father, and widely known as 'Uncle Jack' to so many family members, natural and adopted alike. Neighbours loved to meet him on the street, and even strangers' days were brightened by any interactions he had with them.
Our family wishes to thank the wonderful and caring staff at Meaford General Hospital, True Davidson Acres, the Cardiac Care Unit and Palliative Care Unit at Michael Garron (formerly East General) Hospital in Toronto.
Jack is survived and missed by his wife Mary, sons Gregory (Genny) and Michael, daughter Jennifer (Christopher), and his two grandsons Drake and Matthew, along with Drake's Mom, Marlin Miles. Also feeling his absence are nephew Wayne Ridley (Rena) and their children Sarah (Chris, Peyton & Mackenzie), Jonathon (Veronica) and Alicia, along with so many more on the Tabone side.
Jack passed shortly after our beautiful family dog, Dixie. So, our hope is that they are reunited now and that we will all be together again one day too. ❤️
Funeral Details
Show location:
Memorial
Pine Hills Cemetery & Funeral Centre
625 Birchmount Road, Toronto, ON, CANADA, M1K 1R1
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