Obituaries

COLLINS, Jack

COLLINS, Jack

Dad passed away peacefully on March 20th, 2012 at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital in Vernon, BC at the age of 70. His loving wife of 12 years, Marlene, and his son Jeff were both at his side. He struggled with many health issues due to a heart valve replacement in 2004, but despite all of his challenges he was not the sort of a man to complain. He is survived by many.

Jack touched the lives of many people in his personal life and also in his professional life. Many people in the Pembina Valley in Manitoba will remember him as a person who worked tirelessly and was able to solve tax issues in ways that no one else would ever have attempted. Despite personal tragedies Dad always found solace in places or in people. He had great affection for the years he operated the gas station atop the Coquihalla Connector. He would invite travel weary customers up to his suite for a meal and a conversation and made many friends. He gave more than he ever received and we will all remember this characteristic of a truly gentle and kind man.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Kelowna over the Easter weekend.

For more information contact [email protected].

Condolence Messages

Apr 02, 2012
Dear Marlene and Jeff:

Jack was an upbeat and caring person. He and I worked together for a number of years and he always took the time with a comment or a joke.

Even in tough medical times he never lost his very positive approach.

He was truly kind and gentle. With sincerest condolences.

Robert Keller at Thalheimer & Co, Accountants
Mar 26, 2012
Dear Marlene and Jeff,

We are so sorry for your loss. Jack was truly a unique man. He loved everyone and was not afraid to show it. He went out of his way for everyone. I met him first at a K of C meeting in about 1985 I think and our paths continued to cross for the next 25 years. He was talented in so many ways and we challenged each other constantly. As you know we worked together at many different times during those years. Oh dear, I feel so sad. God bless and keep him, may he rest in peace, Amen.

In sympathy, Henry and Marilyn Thalheimer
Mar 26, 2012
We were Jack and Marlene's neighbors on Fir Court in Kelowna almost 10 years ago. Jack was such a wonderful person and my baby girl Amber still remembers them both fondly even though she was only a year or two when we would sit out back on their makeshift patio under the sundeck. Although it has been years since we last saw them they will always be missed for being the best neighbors anyone could have. My heart goes out to Marlene and Jeff. Big hugs to both of you. Jack was a very special person.

Love Karen, Michael and Amber MacKenzie