Obituary
McIRVINE, John Douglas “Jack” – It is with great sadness that the family of Dr. John ‘Jack’ McIrvine announce his passing at the age of 93 on June 12, 2022 in Gravenhurst, Ontario.
Jack will be greatly missed by Britt-Marie McIrvine, his wife and best friend of 69 years. He was predeceased by his brother Edward (Ted) in 2019. He was much loved by cousins Barb Thatcher (and partner Bill), as well as John and Elsie Lindgren.
Born in Regina and raised in Winnipeg, Jack then went to the United States to complete a doctorate in chemical engineering from the University of Wisconsin. This is where he met Britt, the love of his life.
Jack’s career as a chemical engineer found him working in the explosives industry with CIL/ICI Canada, initially in Quebec and then in Ontario. He also spent many years as a consultant involved in hazardous materials clearing as well as composting.
Jack and Britt spent many years involved in activities that they loved doing together. Some of their favourites were square dancing, car rallying, as well as backpacking in Vermont. After they relocated to Ontario they also cottaged on Lake Muskoka. Once in Muskoka, Jack continued to make important contributions to several organizations as a volunteer. He gave his time and expertise to CPS (Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons) as an instructor and an officer. His technical skills and a passion for steamships also led him to support the engineering needs of the RMS Segwun and most recently the electrification of the Wanda III. After more than 20 years of volunteering Jack was recognized for his efforts by receiving an Ontario Volunteer Service Award in 2012.
Jack (and Britt) were also very active and long term members of the Probus Club of Bracebridge. The club was a very important part of his life. He will be missed by his many friends at Probus.
A celebration of life honouring Jack will be held on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 from 1:00 – 4:00 pm at Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of John Jack Douglas McIrvine February 24 1929 June 12 2022 (age 93)..
Death notice for the town of: GRAVENHURST, Province: Ontario
I grew up with Jack as one of my ‘older’ cousins in Winnipeg (nephew of his mother Ella) along with his brother Ted. He and Britt welcomed me to their home in Beloeil, and me, my wife and children to their cottage in Muskoka. We have fond memories of an early exploration of the Wanda during its initial restoration, and dinner on the Seguin with Jack and Britt. He always reminded me of my Uncle Bruce (his father) and will be missed by my entire family. Our condolences to Britt and to other members of his family.