On March 22, 2020, the world lost an incredibly bright light. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking passing of our beloved husband, father, papa, son, brother and friend Jack Wiens at the age of 67.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 46 years Mary Lou, his children Jeffrey and Rachel, Cheryl and Jen and much-loved grandchildren Logan, Taveon and Brynn.
Jack leaves to mourn his mother Anne, siblings Allan (Eileen), Carol (Brian), Rick (Joyce) and Dave (Bev); mother-in-law Joyce along with in-laws Joanne (Brent), Murray (Debbie), Barb (Cam), Bruce (Doreen); 21 nieces and nephews and 22 great nieces and nephews. Also left to mourn are his forever buddies Wayne, Scott, Brian, Jerry, Claude and Bruce H.
He was predeceased by his father Bill, brother Leonard, and father-in-law Ken Reid.
Jack was born and raised in St. Vital where he met the love of his life, Mary Lou. They went on to marry in 1974 and proudly welcomed their first-born Jeff in 1975. In 1979, they welcome their second child, daughter Cheryl. Becoming a father forever changed Jack’s life as he became a very proud and hands on loving parent. Jack was involved in many activities with his children, the biggest being hockey. His love for hockey was passed down to both his children that bonded them to this day. He coached both his children for many years and continued his passion of coaching other youth even after his own had moved on. Jack became a friend and mentor to many young men and women in his coaching career. After his coaching career, Jack found a new love for travel. Together, Jack and Lou traveled from Petawawa to Yellowknife to Oklahoma and recently Nova Scotia wherever Jeff’s postings landed him and the grandkids. He also traveled all over Canada to watch Cheryl play either soccer or hockey and was her biggest believer. Jack and Mary Lou also developed a love for Mexico and vacationed there yearly for the past 14 years. This past year to his surprise, Jack got to walk down the beach with his little brother Dave, that was a highlight of this last trip.
Jack was proudly employed with the Winnipeg Police Service for 33 years in which he wore many hats, served in many different capacities and was known to many as a mentor. Once retired, Jack gained employment with MLCC and True North for the next 10 years. As an avid Jets fan and season ticket holder, the True North was surely his dream job as he enjoyed the opportunity to meet and mingle with old/new acquaintances and diehard Jets fans. Through his 43 working years, Jack shared many genuine friendships, memories and laughter with all whom he met.
Jack and Mary Lou had a love story that was never ending. Through 46 years of marriage, they worked side-by-side together creating a loving family and home to which the door was always open for many gatherings of all occasions. Along with these gatherings came music, as Jack loved to play guitar, serenade Mary Lou as well as perform karaoke for his guests. Next to Mary Lou and kids, his greatest joy was the grandchildren. They brought him so much joy and laughter that you could see him light up at the mention of them. Jack was an extremely proud husband, father and grandfather and most of all proud of the life he and Mary Lou created together.
Jack touched so many lives in so many ways with his zest for life along with his kind and gentle soul. He made sure to make time for everyone especially his mother whom he spent many hours with watching sports, playing crib and making short trips to the casino. His love for his family and friends will live on forever along with his memory.
Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure; you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.
Heartfelt thanks to Carlo and Candace on 7A, and Nicole who went above and beyond to help our family through this sad time.
Cremation has taken place.
A Celebration of Jack's life will be held on March 22 at 1:00 pm at St. Boniface Golf Club, 100 Youville. With respect for all vulnerable family and guests, masks preferred and encouraged!
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