Obituary of John Ernest Jackson
JACKSON, John
In his 103rd year and after a life filled with simple riches, John Ernest Jackson has peacefully gone to join his love, Lou. John was surrounded by family on May 5th, 2024 following a short stay at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Born October 3rd, 1921 to Ernie and Bessie Jackson, John spent his earliest years in Orillia. The family moved to Northern Ontario where John and his three sisters came of age in the mines, forests and lakes around Gowganda.
Like his father, John served during World War II. He was stationed at Prince Rupert and held the rank of Gunner.
After the war, he crossed paths with the love of his life, Louise. Together, they built a life, with Lou choosing their house in Whitby and John selecting the lots on Beaver Lake for their family cottage. John ran a construction company and then worked for the Ontario Department of Highways while he and Lou raised their three sons, Michael, Gordon, and Grant.
John retired in 1984 after 31 years of public service and fully embraced cottage life. His love for the outdoors was evident from his collection of boats, canoes, snowmobiles, ATV’s and, eventually, his long-awaited backhoe at age 98. He knew the Beaver Lake area like the back of his own hand. After all, it was with his determination and foresight that the final portion of Beaver Lake Road was developed, making road access possible for the north side of the Lake.
True to his honourable nature, John served on the Galway Cavendish Fire Department for many years and was an instrumental part of the Geriatric Construction Co. who built the Cavendish Community Centre. When he wasn’t fishing or tinkering on projects, John could be found helping at community events and tending bar at the many functions that brought such vibrancy to the Cavendish community.
Humble and honest, John worked hard but also enjoyed life to its fullest. He had a sharp sense of humour with blue eyes that would dance when he laughed. He loved Country & Western music, fishing and teasing everyone he could.
John was predeceased by his wife, Lillian (Louise) Jackson (née Fox); parents, Ernest Grant Jackson and Elizabeth (Bessie) Jackson (née Ballantyne); and sisters, Minnie Dick, Edna Jackson and Jean Jackson. He is survived by sons, J. Michael, Gordon (Elaine) and Grant; granddaughters, Tina (Tim Lamont), Amanda (James McWilliam), Lisa and Laura; and great-grandchildren, Jacob, Leah, Sarah, Mason and Liam. He is also survived by a new family member, Christine. He will be missed, too, by nephew, Paul Dick (Cheryl); grandniece, Lyndsay Jackson; grandnephew, Jordan Dick; and great-grandniece, Lillian Jackson.
John's long life was a testament to good living. His legacy lives on in the Cavendish community and in our hearts.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff of the Haliburton and Peterborough hospitals for their kindness and dedication.
Arrangements have been entrusted to THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOME – LAKEFIELD CHAPEL. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 16th from 5:30 PM till 8:30 PM at Hendren Funeral Home, Lakefield Chapel, (66 Queen St, Lakefield) with a Celebration of Life will be held in June, details from the family to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough, Cavendish Youth Group or the Trent Lakes Outreach Center Food Bank by calling 705-652-3355 or by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com
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