In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

 

John Irwin (Jack) Nash

 

Combined Operations, RCNVR

 

Died: 31 Mar 2014

 

NASH, John Irwin (Jack) - Peacefully at home on Monday, March 31, 2014 in his 89th year. Loving husband of 67 years to Eileen. Beloved father of Roderick Nash and Linda Barbeau. Dear grandfather of Jennifer Barbeau, John Barbeau (Carolyn), Sarah Mattalo (Christian) and Sophie Nash. Cherished great grandfather of Jonah Barbeau, Mischa and Suvi Mattalo and Sydney Madill. He is survived by his Aunt Emily McPhail (late Don) and sister Margaret Lauzon (late Phil). Son of the late William and Christina Nash. Brother-in-law of Reg Donaldson (late Audrey, late Dona), Shirley Bumbacco (late Fred), late Lloyd Beaton (late Ethel, Dorothy), Chester (late Bev, Nancy), late Jimmie and late Gladys. Jack is predeceased by his siblings Bill (late Jean), Murdine (late George) and Tom (late Joan). Jack retired in 1987 after 30 years with the City of Sault Ste. Marie, the last 20 years as the City's first Purchasing Manager. In all, Jack's working life encompassed 49 years from the early days at the T. Easton Company, Algoma Steel's Testing & Servicing Division, and Algoma Central Railway working up through his trade designations until he was asked to set up and run a stores operation for ACR's diesel shops. Jack devoted many hours to the community through his involvement and active participation in a variety of clubs and events. He was a proud member and past President of the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie, Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow, and past President of Rotary Children's Centre. Jack received 50 Year Pins for each of the following: the Algoma Lodge, the Scottish Rite – Lodge of Perfection Chapter of Rose Croix, the Sault Shrine Club, and Mocha Shriners. He was also a strong supporter of the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25 and served on the Board of Directors. Jack was appointed Honorary Governor of the Corp. Commissionaire Ottawa division and director of the Sault Ste. Marie Naval Veterans' Association. In 1954, one of his proudest achievements was his organization, with the support of the Rotary Club, of the first handicapped Cub Pack and remained Cub Master for several years. He was integral in the beginnings of the "Whipper Watson Snowarama for Timmy" in 1975. Jack was also instrumental in the purchasing of James Lyons School and the relocation of Children's Rehabilitation Centre in 1996. He continued his commitment and worked closely with Mac McLelland and Dr. Sinclair as they moved the vision of the Centre forward. Jack served in the Navy during World War II as part of the Combined Ops and had a distinguished service record. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, he was on the ubiquitous HMC-LCI (L)-305 Landing Craft as part of the 2nd Canadian LCI Flotilla (Royal Navy Flotilla 264). He participated in the campaign as part of the invasion of Normandy, France at Omaha Beach and Gold Beach. Their presence there was the culmination of some two years preparation and was Jack's first action as part of the Royal Navy. Jack made his dash for the beach, as the first man out without mishap, which would be the beginning to the end of WWII. Landing Craft 305 would make several trips back and forth to England to bring additional troops to the beaches as part of the campaign. Their on-going ferrying of Allied troops was their top priority. Jack was tremendously proud of the fact he once wore the famous insignia of the anchor, wings and machine gun. Above all else, Jack was a family man, and the cares and concerns of those he loved always took precedence over everything else. He stood for all that's good and for everything that's right. Jack was respected by all who knew him. He enjoyed many years with his dear friends, fishing buddies, and neighbours on Second Avenue and Pointe Louise. He stands as a great example, the best anyone ever had. With great love and admiration he will be missed by all. Friends may call at the Arthur Funeral home and Cremation Centre on Thursday, April 3, 2014 from 5-8 pm. Funeral service will be celebrated on Friday, April 4, 2014 in the chapel at 11 a.m. Rev. John Wilson officiating. Interment West Korah Cemetery. Memorial contributions to the Children's Rehabilitation Centre-Algoma or A.R.C.H. would be appreciated by the family.

 

At the going down of the sun And in the morning We will remember them.

 

Members of the Royal Canadian Legion are requested to assemble at the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre on Friday, April 4, 2014 at 11 a.m. for a memorial service for the late Mr. Jack Nash. Members of the Masonic Lodge are requested to assemble at the Arthur Funeral Home & Cremation Centre on Thursday, April 3, 2014 at 6:45 p.m. for a memorial service for the late Mr. Jack Nash.

 

Ships served in:

LCI(L) 305

 


 

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