John Thomas Coldwell (Jack)
November 18, 1925 to October 27, 2015
Not everyone seeks fame and fortune; some people are at their happiest when they are surrounded by people that love them, they are in nature, and lead a simple life. A life based on working hard, having simple pleasures, doing their best, and helping others. That pretty much sums up Jack. He didn't want to travel the world, he didn't want fine cars, he wanted a loving partner that was completely committed to him and he got that in Helen.
Jack was raised in a family of eight. His parents, Reg and Doll, taught their family to have a strong work ethic, a love of the land, a special fondness for animals, especially horses in my Dad's case, and the ability to create with their hands.
Dad enlisted in the army and became an artillery instructor. He had always been an exceptional shot so it was a natural progression for him.
1946 was the year that Helen and Jack married and so became the beginning of a 69 year long marriage. Theirs was a marriage that still involved holding hands and always telling each other how much they loved one another. They raised a family of four together, Bob, Dianne, Jacqueline, and Debbie.
Jack worked in the bush and scaled logs for much of his life but also worked in a hardware store later. Log scaling was perfect for him because he was amazing with numbers and long calculations.
Helen and Jack moved to Clearwater in 2001 from Quesnel and they loved it here. It was a fitting end to a really hard working life, being with family, and their dog Bree. They could just relax and enjoy it.
Dad's last two years were spent in Forest View, where he was cared for by an amazing staff of people. Not only were his needs taken care of, he was treated like family. Six months ago Helen joined him at Forest View and their rooms were across the hall from one another. They were so happy to be close to one another again.
Jack is survived by his wife Helen, daughters Dianne and Debbie; brother Bernie, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Jack was predeceased by his parents Reg and Doll; sisters Gertrude, Gladys, Agnes, and Bea; brothers Joe and Harry; son Bob; daughter Jacquline, and son-in-law Steve.
A service for Jack will take place at the Upper Clearwater Hall in Clearwater, British Columbia on November 7, 2015 at 1 pm. Reception and opportunity to visit and share memories will take place at the same location following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Forest View Recreation Program, so the residents have more opportunities for joy. Services entrusted to North Thompson Funeral Services in Clearwater, British Columbia. 250-674-3030