Jack Stacey Galvin

Peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and with his beautiful wife at his side, on Friday, August 31st, 2007 at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, in his 77th year. Beloved husband of Lyla for over 53 years. Loving and very devoted father/father-in-law to Douglas (Judie), Russell (Rebecca Poon) and Tracy (David Hynes). Cherished and adoring "Poppa" of Kristy, Kim, Sadie and Frances. Dear brother to Dennis of New Zealand, Brian of Australia and Pattie (Fred McMillan) of New Zealand. Lovingly remembered by his niece Vicki Meyer of New Zealand, as well as by many other extended family and so very many dear friends.

Jack was born in Wellington, New Zealand and raised in nearby Wanganui where he developed his love of swimming and all sports. Losing his mother at a young age, Jack learned to be self-sufficient and began his lifelong skill of self-education.

Leaving NZ in 1952, Jack met his bride-to-be, Lyla, onboard ship enroute to travel Europe. Married in London, England in 1953, they stopped in Canada on the way back to NZ and stayed for good. After leading the design effort for the "Indians of Canada" pavilion at Expo 67, Jack successfully ran his own design business for many years. In 1969 Jack designed and built his family home in an idyllic valley of the west Don River.

Jack's love of life was expressed in his vibrant paintings, woodcarvings, furniture, and other creations, as well as in his penchant for costume parties, singsongs around the piano or campfire, card nights, doing the haka, and midnight tobogganing. Musically gifted, he could play most instruments he picked up. His enthusiasm, hospitality and good humour were legendary among his many friends and he was always the first to volunteer, whether for a new adventure or to lend a helping hand. Jack was a lifelong good steward of the earth and a regular blood donor.

After retirement, Jack and Lyla did not slow down. They traveled, continued tennis and competitive swimming, and swam regular mornings at the Frost pool. Jack took up downhill skiing at age 65 and spent many wonderful days flying down the slopes - finally getting a helmet at 74! Jack never lost the spark of youth or the twinkle in his eye. He lovingly cared for his beloved Lyla until his last day. Those who knew him, will remember him always.

A memorial service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge Street, at Goulding, south of Steeles), on Saturday, September 29th, 2007 at 11 o'clock. Interment, York Cemetery.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Canadian Hemochromatosis Society (www.toomuchiron.ca ) or a charity of your choice. Please consider donating blood in memory of Jack.