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JOHN DAVID (JACK) MCMAHON Obituary pic

JOHN DAVID (JACK) MCMAHON

Born: Dec 17, 1934

Date of Passing: May 21, 2018

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JOHN DAVID (JACK) MCMAHON December 17, 1934 - May 21, 2018 With love and sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our dear Jack at the Victoria General Hospital, Winnipeg, on May 21, 2018, from pancreatic cancer. Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Mary Lou; his three sons, Robert (Marit), Don (Alina) and Steve (Jackie); his sister Irma (Rene Lafrance); niece Cheryl Bon (Dick); nephews, Richard Lafrance (Bev), Jack (Sheryl) and Jim McMahon; and six adored grandchildren, Aidan, Teagan, Nika, Thor, Avery and Carys. Jack was predeceased by his parents, James Herbert and Mabel (nee Kellington) McMahon, and his brother Harold. Jack was born in Winnipeg, and moved to Lac du Bonnet as a young boy soon after his father passed away. Life was tough for him, his mother, his older brother, and younger sister. Jack took on odd jobs to help support the family; delivering groceries on his bicycle for "two bits an hour", being a fisherman's helper, doing automotive tire repair on weekends, and hand-loading logs on to semi-trailers. He returned to Winnipeg later in his teens to attend Tec Voc. As an adult, Jack moved to Edson, Alberta to work as a steam locomotive fireman and then as an engineer for the CNR. He then moved into sales back in Winnipeg. From 1960 to 1971 at Snap-On Tools, 1972 to 1987 at JH Ryder Machinery, and then from 1988 to 2004 with his McMahon Window Coverings. He volunteered with Grant Park Harrow Community Centre as both hockey and soccer convenor, and as a canvasser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. His successful accomplishments were raising three sons, building the cottage at West Hawk Lake in 1969 at age 35, running two half-marathons in 1986 and 1987, and retiring at the age of 56 to spend 26 winters in Pharr, Texas. While Jack was a jack-of-all-trades, his last hobby was repairing small engines. He read the newspaper daily, front to back, and remembered what he read. His intellect was highly respected by his older friends. He was both a gentleman and a helpful friend. Jack was known to many as a kind and humble man. Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Jack's life will be held at the Harrow United Church, 955 Mulvey Ave., Winnipeg, MB, on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Jack's memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (Manitoba) or the Harrow United Church. LECLAIRE BROTHERS 475 Provencher Blvd., in care of arrangements, 204-775-2220

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 26, 2018

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

  • It’s been years since the passing of my beloved grandpa, and there are days where he is deeply missed. He was a man of strength and sincerity—when he put his mind to something, he made it happen. His determination, warmth, and unwavering spirit left an imprint on everyone who knew him. I still miss you, grandpa. It would have been nice to have your company again. - Posted by: Nika Kamalova (Granddaughter) on: Feb 20, 2025

  • MaryLou and Boys I just heard this very afternoon... Our deepest sympathies. The Cherkas Family Call me when ready 204-890-2501 - Posted by: Carol Cherkas (Neighbor and Friend) on: Jul 18, 2018

  • It's been quite a while since we last spoke, but please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you Mary Lou, and with your family at this time of sadness. I remember your Jack as being a thoughtful guy, who also knew how to laugh. I know that it never seems long enough, but I'm pleased to know you had 55 years together. - Posted by: Elaine Hall (Old friend of Mary Lou) on: Jun 20, 2018

  • The first time I met Jack was way back in 1963 when Jack came to Lively, Ontario to meet the family and announce that he and Mary Lou were going to marry. I was about 9 years old. When I was in high school, Jack invited me to Winnipeg for the summer to help him build his cottage. Jack was a great teacher and a good carpenter. Many fond memories of that summer. After whenever I needed some info about repairing anything, I would ask Jack. He always knew the answer. Lynne and I extend our sympathies to you Mary Lou and family. Jack will be truly missed in the coming days. - Posted by: Jim Powlesland and Lynne Lassiter (Brother-in-law) on: May 30, 2018

  • As his granddaughter, he has told me very supportive and nice compliments. When I showed him my art, he would always tell me that I’ll be a cartoonist, or be a designer. When I showed him my pieces of writing, he would tell me that they will be made into movies, and I’ll go far in my careers. I’m super grateful to have him in my life, and I am so thankful for having him in my life. - Posted by: Nika Kamalova (GrandDaughter ) on: May 30, 2018

  • Great memories of our times in Texas. Our thoughts are with you at this time Mary Lou. Love, Bertie and Fred. - Posted by: Bertie and Fred Gray (Friend) on: May 29, 2018

  • We remember fondly the many times that Jack came for lunch to South Oak Inn at Bethel Place and was always friendly and kind.We will miss him. Our sympathy to you Mary Lou. Walt & Erna Braun. - Posted by: Walt & Ern a Braun (Friend) on: May 28, 2018

  • Hearing about Jack's passing hit me hard, I have known him a very long time and he was like a second father to me, Once again we have lost another special kind and intelligent person, I know he will be missed by all who knew him. My condolences to all who cared about him. - Posted by: Robert Menard (friend) on: May 28, 2018

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