JOHN (JACK) LEONARD PRIOR

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JOHN (JACK) LEONARD PRIOR On Saturday, March 13, 2010 at age 68 years, at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Beloved husband of Susan (nee Berry), loving father of James, Bonnie Keefer (Mike), Rob (Yvonne Burton) and Michael. Devoted Poppa, Grand Papa of Cole, Ashley and Brooke; Simone; and Andrew. Son of the late Marjorie Mearon and Leonard Prior. Cherished son-in-law of Marjorie Berry and brother-in-law to Steve Berry (Bonnie). Will be missed by Jill (Tim Angus), Katie (Rick Gallinger), Charlie, their mom Linda Berry, great-nieces, Elissa, Lily and Madison and many friends, especially the Baters, Allens, Clarks, Youngs, the cottage community and his beloved Arizona. Born in Winnipeg, a graduate of the University of Manitoba, Jack was a pioneer in the computer software industry. His career started in statistics (Agriculture Canada) and evolved into software (ComDev and BMO) but culminated with the formation and successful management of two top Canadian firms (PRIOR Data Sciences and Gallium Software Inc.). Jack would have wanted to be known, not only as a Father of high tech in Ottawa, but also as a teacher and mentor of his peers, of his children and their friends. His greatest pleasures came from the ball diamond where he was passionate about teaching young people new skills. Next to Dad , Coach would be his fondest title. He was a perfectionist, Perfect Practice Makes Perfect! . He placed a high value on fairness, honesty, hard work and getting the best solutions for any problem. He prided himself on being a hand shake business man . Jack was a strong supporter of many organizations within the local and international community. He supported many charities, but in his memory, and, in honour of the 32 years of care he received from the Heart Institute, the family requests that all donations be sent to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Friends were invited to visit at the West Chapel of Hulse, Playfair McGarry, 150 Woodroffe Avenue (at Richmond Road) Monday, March 15 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at Woodroffe United Church, 207 Woodroffe Avenue on Tuesday, March 16 at 1:00 p.m. www.mcgarryfamily.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 16, 2010