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DR. JACK (JOHN) DOUGLAS ARMSTRONG
Born: Sep 04, 1939
Date of Passing: Aug 19, 2006
Offer Condolences or MemoryDR. JACK (JOHN) DOUGLAS ARMSTRONG BA, MD, FRCPC, CM Jack Armstrong, a mucker' in everything he did, right to the end, died on Saturday, August 19, 2006 at Riverview Health Centre after a very lengthy and courageous battle with cancer at the age of 66 years. Married 42 years, Jack was the dearly beloved husband of Glenda; cherished father of daughters, Jeanne and Carolyn; loved brother of Jean Breckon. Jack was predeceased by his brother Bill and his parents. Jack was born in Winnipeg on September 4, 1939, the youngest son of Fred and Maude Armstrong and brother to Bill and Jean. He grew up in Norwood and attended Norwood Collegiate before going on to United College (University of Winnipeg). Jack earned his medical degree at the University of Manitoba and trained in pediatrics in Winnipeg and Denver, CO. He practiced pediatrics in Winnipeg for 35 years. For most of those years he was also on the faculty at the University of Manitoba Medical School and in recent years was an Associate Professor. He was on active pediatric staff at Winnipeg Children's Hospital at the Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface Hospital. Jack had terms as president of both the Manitoba Medical Association and the Canadian Medical Association. He was instrumental in establishing an Aboriginal Health Committee at the Manitoba Medical Association as well as the Canadian Medical Foundation's Aboriginal Bursary Awards program. He also served in leadership roles with various organizations including the United Way, the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, Urban Circle Training Centre, the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre of Winnipeg, Canadian Cancer Society - Manitoba Division, Kinsmen Reh-Fit Centre, New Directions, Project Opikihiwawin, and Native Women's Transition Centre. He was an active member of the United Church and had a strong but quiet faith. Before entering medicine Jack worked as a probation officer for the Winnipeg Juvenile and Family Court, counseling and working with young offenders from the inner city. This job sparked his life-long interest and dedication regarding the impact of poverty on children and young people, and among First Nations children and families. Over the course of his career Jack was part of the Northern Medical Unit flying to northern reserves as a visiting pediatrician. He had a strong belief in consensus and in being a bridge builder for the better good of all. His professional and volunteer accomplishments have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Order of Canada [2005], Canadian Cancer Society, Mb Division Special Volunteer Award [2005], the Queen's Jubilee Medal [2003], the Canadian Medical Association's Medal of Service Award [2001], the University of Winnipeg's Distinguished Alumni Award [1997] and the Dr. Leighton N. Young Distinguished Pediatrician Award [1996]. In 2005, he was featured in the book Caring Physicians of the World, by the World Medical Association. He also received 2 eagle feathers from the aboriginal community, their highest honour. Jack had a great zest for life. His wonderful sense of humour, love of a good joke, and enjoyment of food were legendary. He was an avid reader and enjoyed sports, music and art. Curling, playing accordion, painting, visiting neighbours and friends, and family trips to the lake gave him great enjoyment. Jack was a loving father and dedicated husband. A celebration of his life will be held at St. Mary's Road United Church, 613 St Mary's Rd. on Friday, August 25 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Susan Tough and Rev. Russell Wardell officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined. If so desired, contributions may be made to the United Way of Winnipeg, 3rd floor-5 Donald St., Winnipeg R3L 2T4; to Urban Circle, 519 Selkirk Ave., Winnipeg, R2W 2M6; Rossbrook House, 658 Ross Ave., Winnipeg R3A 0M1 or to St . Mary's Road United Church, 613 St. Mary's Road, Winnipeg, R2M 3L8 in Jack's memory would be very appreciated. A special thank you to the doctors, nurses and all of the staff, for their compassionate care both at home and at Riverview Health Centre. He touched so many, and his light will shine on. CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2006
Condolences & Memories (2 entries)
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Jack was the very first person that I spoke with at 2 years of age. I have vivid images of Him and I sneaking peeks between the shrubs of our homes, and Mrs Armstrong and my mom commenting how I said 'JACK TALKED TO ME'. I was just over 2 at the time and now 63. He was always friendly to me and I can honestly say my very first BEST friend. I'm so glad that he was able to help so many people. With regards from your neighbor Brian on Monck. - Posted by: Brian Boswick (Neighbors on Monck) on: Nov 29, 2021
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I was very sorry to hear of Dr.A's passing, though I know in some ways it was a blessing for him. I have always had the greatest respect and admiration for him. He was one of a kind. We could only hope to be like him and accomplish as much in a lifetime. I wish I could be there Friday but am already in Vancouver at a family wedding. My thoughts are with you. Karen. - Posted by: Karen Cudmore (Friend) on: Aug 24, 2006