John Thomas Conrad

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Thomas "Jack", 85, of Halifax on September 13, 2016, at the Halifax Infirmary, QEII, surrounded by his loving family. But we also celebrate with gratitude the life of an amazing man; quiet, kind, wise and loving.

Born in Halifax, Jack was the only son, and youngest child, of the late Clarence Lane and Jessie Lovella (Anderson) Conrad. His early years were spent in the little house on Oxford St. When he was 11, his family moved to a bigger house on Kline St. During the war the house was full as his family took in soldiers far from home. Jack started working part time at age 8 with Mr. Backman, selling vegetables and fruit from the horse drawn wagon. He always said he learned a lot from that experience. He went to Quinpool Rd. School, Chebucto Rd. School and Queen Elizabeth High School.

Jack followed in his father's footsteps and became a plumber. He was one of the last indentured apprentices in the province, working for Murphy and Wharton Plumbing and Heating while he learned his trade. Once certified he got a job at HMCS Dockyard in the Pipe Shop. He thoroughly enjoyed his work and especially liked mentoring young apprentices. He quickly became lead hand, charge hand and then foreman. He became president of the local pipe fitters union at the age of 23 and kept that position for many years and through some turbulent times.

He met his wife, Jean, when he was 17. They married 5 years later and together happily raised 3 busy daughters. Family was everything to Jack.

He was a great fan and participant of sports. He played left wing for the Halifax Royals hockey team. He also played volleyball and bowled for many years. When his daughters started figure skating he noticed that they weren't enough instructors to help with the children just getting started. He went home and got his hockey skates and spent the next 15 years helping beginners get their feet under them and whizzing them around the ice at the Silver Blades Skating Club.

A man of great faith, Jack grew up at Oxford St. United Church. When he married Jean he transferred to St. John's United Church where he has been a steadfast member of the congregation for over 60 years. No matter what Dad faced he always said that he knew he was not alone. That was the power of his faith.

Jack loved music, books, sports, John Wayne movies and chocolate - but more than anything his family.

Jack is survived, and will always be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Joan (Antigonish) and Elizabeth (Halifax). He is also survived by his loving companion for over 20 years, Janet Campbell. Also surviving is his wonderful sister, Joyce (Bob) Cuthbert and many much loved nieces and nephews. He had a special place in his heart for Mary Lou, who was like a daughter to him.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by his loving wife, Jean and precious daughter, Susan. Also predeceased by his sisters, Dorothy (George) Tidgwell and Margaret (Ralph) Warren.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm on Sunday, September 18, 2016, at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive. A memorial service will take place on Monday, September 19 at 1:00 pm at JA Snow Funeral Home, Reverend Martha Martin officiating. Burial to follow in Fairview Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada or a charity of choice.

Special thanks to everyone who has supported Dad and the family.

As Dad always said "You are loved".