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(JACKIE) JOHN ALEXANDER WILLIAM WARD
Born: Jul 10, 1987
Date of Passing: Oct 12, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory(JACKIE) JOHN ALEXANDER WILLIAM WARD July 10, 1987 - October 12, 2017 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jackie. Jackie is survived by his parents John (Jack) and Donna Ward, his sister Alison, his brother-in-law Rob (Wood), his nephew River, his Nanny Margaret Ward, aunts, uncles, and loving friends. Jackie had a wonderful life. He was born with Cerebral Palsy but that didn't stop him from being an active participant in life. Jackie adored his family and was incredibly close with his mom, dad, and sister. They ensured that he was a part of everything. His mom in particular was an advocate for him his entire life and made sure that not only were his needs met, but that he was seen as a person first. He was joined at the hip to his sister and the two of them called themselves the "super sibling duo". He was always included with his sister and her friends growing up. He appreciated all aspects of life from simple things like patterns and trees to holidays and parties packed with his friends and family. He loved walks after his day program with Mom and snuggling on the couch in the evening with Dad. He was best buds with his three year-old nephew River and the two of them would play together and go trick-or-treating. Jackie really was a remarkable individual. He had the lightheartedness and joy of a child combined with the wisdom of an old soul. People thought they were looking after him, but he really looked after everyone he touched. The people close to him didn't see his disabilities but rather his joy and strength. He was an absolute blessing to his family. His brother-in-law Rob often spoke of Jackie's "magical healing properties" and his contagious happiness. He may not have been able to speak in the traditional sense, but with a look, a laugh, or a touch he could tell you everything, or he would get his sister to speak for him. His incredibly loud and deep laugh - "mmmmm hahahaha" - filled rooms and our hearts. Jackie will truly be missed by his family and friends, but he leaves incredible memories and a legacy of love that will be forever cherished. A private family event will be held to celebrate Jackie. For those wishing, the family would like donations to be made to St. Amant Centre or to The Society for Manitobans with Disabilities.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 21, 2017
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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I was saddened to hear of Jackies passing. He truly was a unique individual. I also learned a lot from that young man. He was a huge friend magnet in the younger days and I had the honour to work along side of him. Jackie you will always hold a soft spot in my heart during my early days as your educational assistant. My condolences to the Ward family - Posted by: Dana Burdey (Heckert) (Educational Assistant ) on: Oct 23, 2017
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“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”– Melodie Beattie. On behalf of Society for Manitobans with Disabilities Foundation we are grateful to be remembered by Jackie’s loved ones during this time and honoured to be trusted to support Manitobans with disabilities in his memory. - Posted by: Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD) Foundation () on: Oct 23, 2017
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Saddened to read of Jackie’s passing. I worked as an assistant to him at Lavallée school. I appreciate everything he taught me and will always remember his great big smile. Condolences to all the family. - Posted by: Lynne (Former instructional assistant) on: Oct 22, 2017
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My condolences. I saw Jackie's photo and I felt compelled to respond. Jackie was a student in my class at Lavallee School. His picture is exactly like I remember him, even though it was over twenty years ago. It was so wonderful to read that he had such a full life and was embraced by love. - Posted by: Doris Gietz () on: Oct 21, 2017
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Donna, Jack & Family We will truly miss greeting Jackie on his afternoon walks around the bay. He was a remarkable young man with the brightest of spirits which was indeed contagious. He will be dearly missed, but always remembered. - Posted by: Dave & Marg (Neighbours) on: Oct 21, 2017
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Jack, Donna and Alison I am saddened to hear of Jackie's passing. He was indeed a very special person and so lucky to have such a loving family to share his life with. - Posted by: Tracey Hamin () on: Oct 21, 2017