In Loving Memory of John (Jack) Albert Connell
Oh, the ‘mountains he climbed!’
July 30, 1931 Bennington, Vermont - April 1, 2022 Langley, B.C.
Some say he could ‘build pyramids’ with the focused intensity Jack used in helping to design dams. His love of engineering had started when he was assigned to do some surveying in the U.S. Army in 1952. Later, he obtained his Civil Engineering degree in Troy New York while raising a family and running two jobs. His career grew alongside his family, as he travelled to the west coast, then from California to British Columbia. He had come full circle back to ‘Canada,’ from where his ancestors originated in Quebec in the late 1600’s!
With his childhood sweetheart and wife since 1951, Jacqueline June (LaCross), he raised 7 children and helped in raising many grandchildren and some great grandchildren. The loving small-town gatherings they both grew up with, spread to more joyful gatherings in Upper Lynn Valley with their family and friends; and the cycle continues. Jack often called his family his “jewels” and they were all very precious to him. Camping, hiking and exploring the history of various sites was another way to share his love. He read mostly non-fictional history and loved music, animals and native art. His smile was contagious and his laugh would make you laugh again. Then there was the ‘stargazing,’ which came with his love of the north and other dreams he fostered. As he gained more time in his senior years, he enjoyed being part of the Knights of Columbus, working in the garden and taking walks with his wife, the biggest jewel of all.
Jack has joined his wife Jackie in another life now. He will be greatly missed by his sister Linda Oslizlo, seven children: Kurt (Grace), Michael (Marcy), John (Liz), Eric (Coleen), René (Rod), Rebecca (Leo), Jessica (Roland), many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his loving memory to those in need.