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JOHN NICOL Obituary pic JOHN NICOL Obituary pic

JOHN NICOL

Born: Oct 12, 1935

Date of Passing: Jan 09, 2015

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JOHN (JACK) NICOL John (Jack) Nicol, family man, firefighter, volunteer, friend, politician, Queen Elizabeth Diamond Golden Jubilee recipient, leader. On Friday, January 9, 2015 our hero and mentor, husband of Eva Allan, father of Jane (Leonard Dupre), Jacqueline (Will Habing), Joanne (Bill Mitchell), and Jeannine (Darryl Stotski) was reunited with his precious daughter Jodi. His grandchildren, Richard, Brendan, Jonathon, Cory, Brittany, Jesse, Sydney and Eric were so fortunate to have his love and guidance. John was born on October 12, 1935 to Albert and Jane Nicol. He was raised in Elmwood and was involved in Kelvin Community Club activities. He was an amazing athlete; baseball, lacrosse, and hockey just to name a few, and was very proud of himself for still holding Lord Selkirk School's record for the fastest 100 yard dash. While attending Lord Selkirk School, John met his high school sweetheart, Eva. They wed on June 21, 1958. They purchased a home in Transcona and lived there until they moved to Dugald in 1966. John immediately started raising funds to build a club hall for the community of Dugald. Dugald was home for the family for 42 years before John and Eva moved back in to Winnipeg. Once again, John took on the task of being President of their residence Grasse Villa, a position he held to this day. His determination and wisdom made him a natural choice when organizations needed a leader, and what a leader he was! Jack joined the Winnipeg Fire Department on September 3, 1957. He made lifelong friends and enjoyed the comrade of the guys. He was promoted to Lieutenant on January 22, 1984 and then promoted to Captain on November 8, 1987. He retired on July 28, 1991 after 33 years and 11 months of service to the citizens of the City of Winnipeg. Dad continued to serve with the Winnipeg Fire Department Retirees Support Group. The people of Springfield were lucky to have Jack as their Reeve for 21 years. Jack served the people faithfully and honourably. He believed in being truthful and based his decisions on the needs of the people. These personal attributes earned him the respectful title of President of the Union of Manitoba Municipality Association (UMM). Under Jack's leadership, the urban and rural municipalities joined together to form the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM). Jack was instrumental in this amalgamation and continued to serve as President of the AMM. Jack was also a member of the board for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) where he made decisions to benefit all municipalities in Canada. Lifelong friendships were also formed. Due to Jack's wisdom and experience in municipal politics, he was asked to serve on the Manitoba Municipal Board. He retired from this board in 2012 but continued to serve as an advisor when needed. As a father, Dad raised his daughters to be respectful and responsible. He would often work a second job to make sure that his girls had everything they could possibly need. He was determined that his girls strived to do their best in all that they undertook. Dad never allowed us to slack off, he expected us at school or work every day, no excuses. He coached us, cheered for us, inspired us, and bragged about us. Dad loved his sons-in-law and often shared how happy he was with his daughter's choices. As a grandfather, he attended all sporting events and instilled the importance of being a true competitor. He became a grandfather to all of his grandchildren's friends and he was loved by all. John was a hero throughout his life and even more so after being diagnosed with cancer. He fought his battle with cancer the same way that he lived his life. He showed courage, strength and the determination to do everything he could to put his family's needs ahead of his. Dad was grateful for the care he received from Dr. Paul Daeninck and his wonderful nurse and close family friend, Tracy Chornopyski. He felt blessed to have them in his life! He also appreciated all the nurses at CancerCare and often joked with them during his chemotherapy treatments. Dad's wish was to be at home and we thank the palliative nurses who visited him daily for their respect and their guidance. We as a family are thankful that we were able to honour dad by being his team of caregivers. This journey has made us even stronger. A celebration of Jack's life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at The North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church located on 1315 Gateway Road. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Children's Wish Foundation, The Manitoba Fire Firefighters Burn Fund or a charity of your choice.
Publication Date: January 15, 2015

JOHN (JACK) NICOL John (Jack) Nicol, family man, firefighter, volunteer, friend, politician, Queen Elizabeth Diamond Golden Jubilee recipient, leader. On Friday, January 9, 2015 our hero and mentor, husband of Eva Allan, father of Jane (Leonard Dupre), Jacqueline (Will Habing), Joanne (Bill Mitchell), and Jeannine (Darryl Stotski) was reunited with his precious daughter Jodi. His grandchildren, Richard, Brendan, Jonathon, Cory, Brittany, Jesse, Sydney and Eric were so fortunate to have his love and guidance. John was born on October 12, 1935 to Albert and Jane Nicol. He was raised in Elmwood and was involved in Kelvin Community Club activities. He was an amazing athlete; baseball, lacrosse, and hockey just to name a few, and was very proud of himself for still holding Lord Selkirk School's record for the fastest 100 yard dash. While attending Lord Selkirk School, John met his high school sweetheart, Eva. They wed on June 21, 1958. They purchased a home in Transcona and lived there until they moved to Dugald in 1966. John immediately started raising funds to build a club hall for the community of Dugald. Dugald was home for the family for 42 years before John and Eva moved back in to Winnipeg. Once again, John took on the task of being President of their residence Grasse Villa, a position he held to this day. His determination and wisdom made him a natural choice when organizations needed a leader, and what a leader he was! Jack joined the Winnipeg Fire Department on September 3, 1957. He made lifelong friends and enjoyed the comrade of the guys. He was promoted to Lieutenant on January 22, 1984 and then promoted to Captain on November 8, 1987. He retired on July 28, 1991 after 33 years and 11 months of service to the citizens of the City of Winnipeg. Dad continued to serve with the Winnipeg Fire Department Retirees Support Group. The people of Springfield were lucky to have Jack as their Reeve for 21 years. Jack served the people faithfully and honourably. He believed in being truthful and based his decisions on the needs of the people. These personal attributes earned him the respectful title of President of the Union of Manitoba Municipality Association (UMM). Under Jack's leadership, the urban and rural municipalities joined together to form the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM). Jack was instrumental in this amalgamation and continued to serve as President of the AMM. Jack was also a member of the board for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) where he made decisions to benefit all municipalities in Canada. Lifelong friendships were also formed. Due to Jack's wisdom and experience in municipal politics, he was asked to serve on the Manitoba Municipal Board. He retired from this board in 2012 but continued to serve as an advisor when needed. As a father, Dad raised his daughters to be respectful and responsible. He would often work a second job to make sure that his girls had everything they could possibly need. He was determined that his girls strived to do their best in all that they undertook. Dad never allowed us to slack off, he expected us at school or work every day, no excuses. He coached us, cheered for us, inspired us, and bragged about us. Dad loved his sons-in-law and often shared how happy he was with his daughter's choices. As a grandfather, he attended all sporting events and instilled the importance of being a true competitor. He became a grandfather to all of his grandchildren's friends and he was loved by all. John was a hero throughout his life and even more so after being diagnosed with cancer. He fought his battle with cancer the same way that he lived his life. He showed courage, strength and the determination to do everything he could to put his family's needs ahead of his. Dad was grateful for the care he received from Dr. Paul Daeninck and his wonderful nurse and close family friend, Tracy Chornopyski. He felt blessed to have them in his life! He also appreciated all the nurses at CancerCare and often joked with them during his chemotherapy treatments. Dad's wish was to be at home and we thank the palliative nurses who visited him daily for their respect and their guidance. We as a family are thankful that we were able to honour dad by being his team of caregivers. This journey has made us even stronger. A celebration of Jack's life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at The North Kildonan Mennonite Brethren Church located on 1315 Gateway Road. The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Children's Wish Foundation, The Manitoba Fire Firefighters Burn Fund or a charity of your choice.
Publication date: January 16, 2015

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 15, 2015

Condolences & Memories (30 entries)

  • Eva and girls - I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. I don't even know what to say as I just expect him to be there with his smile and teasing nature - my thoughts and prayers are with you. Be strong - Hugs - Posted by: Loraine & Doug Klippel (Life long friends) on: Jan 20, 2015

  • I was very sorry to read about Jack's passing. He was always such a kind and funny man to speak with! The last time we talked, we had a nice visit at St. Boniface Hospital while he was visiting his wife and we were there seeing our mom. He was a genuine man who was truly interested in you. I'll miss seeing him and our little visits. My thoughts and prayers go to the entire Nicol family. - Posted by: Nancy Wilde (family friend) on: Jan 19, 2015

  • My sincere sympathies and thoughts are with you Eva. John was such a good, honest man to everyone. I always enjoyed seeing you both whenever I was back home. Love to you and the girls. God Bless You - Posted by: Ray Thorogood (Friend) on: Jan 17, 2015

  • Dear Eva and family, our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family on the passing of your loved one. Jack had words of wisdom laced with his special blend of humor which always left you feeling good, even if you didn't remember what the topic of discussion was at the start. I will always remember the times we shared behind the glass at the curling rink while you and Rosemary were on the ice. The jokes and witty quips were always present. We have missed and will always remember the friendly wave of his walking stick when we tooted as we passed him on his walks on 206. We will miss you, Jack. - Posted by: Meron and Rosemary Chabluk (Friends) on: Jan 17, 2015

  • Jeanine and Family our condolences on the passing of your Father. Jack was truly unique as is evident by all the people he's touched throughout his life. As a firefighter he was a joker at times but when the heat was on Jack was at your side. I am truly grateful for his candor and presence, we will miss Uncle Jack. - Posted by: Stephen Sumka (Firefighter Friend) on: Jan 17, 2015

  • May the memories of a wonderful father & grandfather help to bring you all a smile in your time of sorrow! Thinking of you all! - Posted by: Wade & Donna Chambers & family (Friend of Dupre's) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • I met Mr. Nicol years ago and found him to be a very caring person. He always helped people. - Posted by: Brenda MacMillan (past co-worker of Jackie Habing, My thoughts and prayers go out to the family in the loss of your fa) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Joanne and family, so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care. - Posted by: Sharon & Wayne Murdock (friend) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Mr Nicol was a good friend to my dad and his support was very much appreciated when my father passed. Please accept our condolences. - Posted by: Gwen Sarginson (Daughter of Friend) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Sincere condolences to Eva and family. Our hearts were saddened when we heard of Jack's passing. He was a wonderful, kind and caring man who will be missed by all who knew him. - Posted by: rod and crystal mcleod (friends of the family) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • My deepest condolences to Eva and Family. I will remember Jack's jokes and bubbly personality. He will be sadly missed. I bet there is quite a line up in heaven greeting Jack. - Posted by: Gloria Gray (friend) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Jack was a true friend to many, always making you feel special, with his warm smile, witty comments. I always looked forward to a chat when we met and was warmed by his huge heart. He felt deeply for those close to him. - Posted by: Ellie Krahn & Brian Finlay (Family friend) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Jack's wisdom arises out of his awareness of the situation and the relationships. Tirelessly caring, his humour was inevitably well timed. Rest in peace Jack, you've earned it! - Posted by: Bob Upton (Colleague building UMM and bringing UMM and MAUM together to form AMM. ) on: Jan 16, 2015

  • Dear Eva & family We are so sorry to hear of Jack Passing. We have known Jack since we were teenagers. We always could count on him to be a part of our lives. He was a kind and gentle soul, We will miss him so much. We pray for your strength and courage in this sad time. Shirley & John - Posted by: John & Shirley Van der Tol & Family (Friend & fellow Fire Fighter ) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Jack, Mr. Nicol - made a permanent impression on my life. He was another dad for many years; the man who welcomed with open arms, always. Respected, down to earth, giving, fun, yet getting things done; an incredible father who was loved by a whole community. Nicols: thank you for sharing him for so long. Yes, some of the jokes were bad...but I can't think of someone I'd rather hear them from. Jack, thank you for always being you, and more, thank you for helping make a whole family of community minded, passionate and fun people. Spread your wings as you spread your joy here. - Posted by: Marla Lewis (Family friend (Jeannine)) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Our deepest condolences to Eva & family. We'll always remember the fun we had with Jack when we were raising funds to build the Dugald Community Club. Jack is now in his new home telling everyone funny stories & jokes. - Posted by: Ken & Lorna Ivanshyn (Friends) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • I first met Jack back in the 60's at the East End Community Club where he was coaching hockey and volunteering. He was well liked and respected by young and old. We had some great, lengthy conversations in the aisle of Costco many times over the years. The world has lost a great person. Condolences to the Nichol family. - Posted by: Richard Woroniak (old friend) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Eva & Family: Our sincere condolences to you on your loss of Jack. As so aptly put in the obituary, he lived a full and helpful life. As well, for us, it was always a pleasure to go past your home and see that our "old place" was so well looked after. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Jack & Barb Ross. Tucson, AZ (Friends) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • John's contribution to our great national summer sport, lacrosse, continued long after his playing days. During the past few years he graciously volunteered to serve as a valued volunteer member on the Manitoba Lacrosse Hall of Fame's selection committee where it was my privilege to meet and work with him. My deepest condolences to the family. God bless; rest in peace John. - Posted by: Dave Gillis (lacrosse - Manitoba Lacrosse Hall of Fame) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • When I moved to Anola, Mr. Nicol was reeve of the municipality of Springfield. He was a dedicated, sincere and honest person. I met him at some of his daughter's ball games while umping their games. He never questioned my calls and instilled in his daughters the same good sportsmanship in all their sports endeavors. He was a good man and will be missed. - Posted by: Fred Budzey (acquaintance) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Sending love, comfort and strength with our heartfelt sympathy. - Posted by: Joan Paulley Neil Childs (Freinds) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • I'm so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. We were fortunate to have met up with our group of old friends from Transcona at Club Regent a few years ago and had a wonderful reunion. I will be unable to attend on Saturday as I am out of country but my sincere condolences to Eva and family. Sudsy - Posted by: Bob (Sudsy) Sutherland (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Although we are unable to join in the celebration of your father's life Jeannine, we will be thinking of and praying for you and your family. - The Millers - Posted by: Darren, Lea-Ann & Casey Miller (Friend of Jeannine) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family. Jack will be dearly missed by all. - Posted by: Leanne and Peter Wolfe (Friend of the family ) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Joanne and Family, So sorry for your loss. Your father was a wonderful person. - Posted by: Pat Pankewycz (Friend of Joanne) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • We have many warm thoughts of Mr. Nicol. He was a hoot at all hockey games, a mentor in politics and just an amazing person. We hold great respect for this man and the wonderful family he and Mrs. Nicol have raised. Our thoughts go out to the whole family. - Posted by: Donna and Peter Skrupski (Friend ) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • I had the privilege to sit ex-office on the UMM board as the Pres. of MMAA while Jack was pres. of UMM. Jack had a special way with people, he made everyone around him feel special and you just wanted to do the very best you could for him. All the members of MMAA had the deepest respect for Jack. At a meeting in Portage one time I got caught chatting with the Mayor of Melita during a debate, Jack stopped the meeting and made me sit beside him. A position I kept for the remaining years I sat on UMM. Eva my most sincere condolences to you and your family, God bless you all. Gary - Posted by: Gary Hanna (friend) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Was saddened to hear of Jack's passing. He will always be remembered as one of the good guys. Great person to talk to, who always asked how my family was. You never wanted to verbally spar with Jack, unless you wanted to finish second. He will be missed. Peace to Jack and the entire Nicol family. - Posted by: Rod Suggitt (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Sincere condolences to Eva and the family on Jack's passing. I enjoyed working with Jack at FCM Board meetings and at the AMM during our time together in public life. Sometimes when discussions got tense and serious, Jack could be counted on to bring some levity to the situation at just the right moment. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Jae Eadie (former municipal government colleague) on: Jan 15, 2015

  • Jack, its been a while but glad you have gone from the pain to a life we all look forward to at some time..God's speed. My Dad thought a lot of you as a fireman as you likely knew during his days as Deputy Chief. Ponemah Beach was a great place those years ago where we first met. Fond memories of another sportsman. God Bless. - Posted by: Gordon McLauchlin (old time friend) on: Jan 15, 2015

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