John Bacon (Jack) McDonald IV passed away suddenly on January 10th, 2025, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital. He was born on October 31st, 1956, in Waukegan, Illinois.
John was predeceased by his parents, John and Lorraine McDonald; siblings, Hugh and Leah McDonald and his granddaughter, Rheanna Trepanier.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer; children, Angelina Turner (Paul), Marissa Trepanier, Gabriel McDonald (Chelsea), Colin Chamak (Moonsun), Adam Chamak and Gillian Chamak (Peter); grandchildren, Emma, Jade, Anthony, Jordyn, Benjamin, Noah, Callum, Connor, Nate, Nylah; great-grandchild, Hayes; siblings, Jill, Robert, Vickie, Sean, Colleen, and Somerled. He also leaves behind many close aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
John went to school in Port Alberni before going on to study at the Seminary of Christ the King in Mission, BC. Afterwards, he joined the military briefly, training in Alberta and Nova Scotia.
He entered the funeral service profession in 1980 and held licences as both a funeral director and embalmer. After dedicating decades to serving families in Edmonton, Nanaimo and Powell River, John joined the McCall Gardens family in 2001.
John was proud of his Metis and Scottish ancestry and his spiritual connection to his church. John enjoyed singing and is a former President of the Arion Male Voice Choir. His hobbies included golf, fishing, and spending time with his loving wife, Jennifer, and his dog, Violet.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, 740 View Street (at Blanshard), Victoria, BC on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 12:00 pm with a reception to follow at 2:00 pm in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Many thanks to the paramedics, emergency room team and the Coronary Care Unit at the Royal Jubilee Hospital for working so hard to save him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Victoria Bulldog Society, a local rescue that was very dear to his heart. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
A Slideshow Tribute to John (Jack) McDonald:
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
27 Responses
To Colleen and Family
My condolences for your loss.
Jack was a gentle giant and had a heart of gold. He was a kind person and was a fun to be around.
Though I didn’t spend a lot of time getting to know him, when I was out with the family he would stand out for his heart.
Miss you John,
Grandpa, I miss you so so so much. I always wanted to go fishing with you but we never did but we still had lots of fun together. Love Ben
I had the pleasure of working with John (JMac) at McCall’s for nearly four years. He gave his best to every family we served, and he was the steadfast help I could always count on.
His absolute heart of gold, genuine care and concern, his mischievous side, beautiful singing voice, and his powerful presence are the the things I will always cherish.
My next visit to McCall’s will feel very hollow without his presence there, but I am ever so grateful to have had him as part of my life.
Jennifer and family, you are in my thoughts at this most difficult time. Sending you strength and love for the journey ahead.
Fly high JMac. #Metis tough
Dear Jennifer and all family and friends whose lives have been touched by Jack. I have been blessed to have him as my cousin. Jack was always there to listen, advise, be a shoulder or bring much needed laughter. We loved Jack so much as did each of my children with their incredible memories of him. Jack made everyone feel loved and accepted no matter what. Thank you dear cousin for your love, kindness and being there for us all. Your life will always be remembered and cherished ❤️
Our deepest condolences to Jen and all of the family. I had never met anyone quite like Jack who was very funny , passionate about his hobbies and very knowledgeable about life and all of the curveballs it throws at us all. We really enjoyed our many dinners with Jack and Jen at Romeo’s and other fine Victoria restaurants which were filled with laughter , excellent political conversations and of course so much fun. Rest in peace our good friend, we love you Jen xxxooo
Fly high, Jmac. My thoughts are with your wife (your soulmate, with whom you shared so many amazing adventures), your family, friends, and sweet Violet as they navigate this sudden and heartbreaking loss. It was truly a gift to have known and worked with you. I like to think of you being greeted by Rheanna with open arms, the biggest hugs, and that perhaps her spirit truly needed you. The thought of you reunited with your beautiful young granddaughter brings a small comfort amidst the sorrow. Rest easy, knowing the love and infectious sense of humor you brought into this world continue to shine through those who cherished you.
With our deepest sympathy to Jennifer & family,
Our hearts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
John will be remembered in so many wonderful ways, his kindness,amazing personality and
smile would brighten anyones day. Words cannot express the loss but may the fond memories of John bring comfort to your family.
We have been fortunate to have known John for many years at McCalls. He will be greatly missed.
Fine Floral Designs
To Our loving Jennifer and all of your and Jack’s Family, we send our deepest God given prayers. We loved Jack with our hearts and always will until we meet him in heaven. We will miss all his campfire stories and well meaning jokes that we laughed at so heartily. So tender was his heart to those people that needed his compassion, no matter who they were he gave the kindest advice. God bless you Jen, and all your families and all people who met or knew Jack.
My deepest condolences to Jennifer and the rest of John’s family. Together, may you find peace, comfort and strength in sharing warm memories of him and continuing on his legacy.
John had a personality larger than life. His smile lit up every room, and the ripples of life and love that he cast will echo forever in the hearts of those lucky enough to have known him. He had wisdom from experience, a kindness that was unparalleled and a mischievous spirit that brought joy, frustration and much laughter to his coworkers.
JMAC, thank you. I am proud to endure a lifetime of missing you for the privilege of knowing you. Till we meet again, my friend.
Dad, Ican’t believe you are gone. I still have to tell you about my recent trip and share with you the new church I went to. You have meant so much to me and have touched so many peoples lives. You were the connection to my Métis heritage and the person who I go to ask religious questions, you always had an answer! I can always count on you no matter what. I miss you and love you so much.