John "Jack" Burns

The family is saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of John “Jack” Burns on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at the age of 90, at his home.

Jack was born and raised in Frontier, Saskatchewan.

As a young man, Jack joined the CPR as a policeman and he ended up stationed in Fort William where he met Shirley Steele. They were married and spent the next 63 years together, until Shirley’s passing in 2018. Jack was transferred to Schreiber where they spent the first few years of their marriage. They returned to Fort William after Jack started with Fort William Telephone, (now TBaytel). Jack worked there in various roles until his retirement. After retiring, Jack worked part time every spring as the McKenzie Seed distributor for many years.

Shirley and Jack lived in a small house and once Larry and Susan came along, they decided they needed to move into something bigger. They never found anything they really liked and once the kids left for school, they began looking for a camp. They found a place on Floral Beach and spent many summers enjoying the view of the Sleeping Giant while getting in a few games of Cribbage.

Jack was involved with Scouting, being the Leader of the 7th Fort William Troop for several years. He was very involved with Wesley United Church, (now First-Wesley United Church), serving on various committees until the last few years. Jack was also a member of the Fort William Masonic Lodge No. 415.

For as long as we can remember Jack donated blood and plasma. He was a regular at the local Red Cross and he received several honours for being one of the top local donators. He was upset when the local branch closed and travelled to Fort Frances many times to donate plasma.

Jack is survived by his children Larry (Bev), Susan (Michael), grandchildren, Stephan (Candace) and Elise, and his great grandchildren Teagan, Greyson, and Archer, nieces, Janice Steele, and Roma (Ken) Kopechanski and other extended family. Predeceased by his wife, Shirley, sister, Gavina and brother in law Brent Peterson, and parents John and Violet Burns.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private family service was held on Friday April 9, 2021.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations to First-Wesley United Church or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.