Jack was born in Seaforth, ON on September 5th, 1942. He grew up in the town of Dublin, ON with his older brother Donald and younger sister Mary Margaret. During his years in high school , Jack worked at the local Red and White grocery store owned by George Goettler. George became a huge influence in Jack's life and convinced him he should become a Chartered Account, Jack took George's advice. After high school Jack left for London, ON, where he studied to become a CA with the accounting firm of Clarkson Gordon. In 1967 Jack journeyed to Montreal to have a fun time taking part in Canada's 100th Anniversary celebrations. Jack fell in love with the city and vowed to return to live and work in this vibrant and exciting city. In 1971 his wish came true, when he got a position with CN Rail in the Auditing Department. He worked for CN in Montreal for a couple of years and it was during that time that he met his love, Nancy. After a brief time in Toronto he was transferred back with CN to Montreal. Around 1975-76 Jack got a position with Genstar as Manager of the Internal Auditing Department. Jack had many interesting experiences working at Genstar. He traveled extensively with Genstar across Canada, California and as far away as Saudi Arabia. Jack and Nancy married in May 1976. In 1979, Jack took a position in Calgary, as V-P of Finance with Keith Construction, a subsidiary of Genstar. Jack's son Michael was born in Calgary in 1980. After 4 glorious years in Calgary, a move further West was looming. In the Spring of 1983, Jack and the family headed to Vancouver, where the family settled in North Delta until September 2009. At this time Jack & Nancy decided to moved to a condo in White Rock. In 1985 Jack decided to switch careers and went into Real Estate. Jack worked with Re/Max Performance for 30+years and enjoyed every minute.
Through all his moves and varied work experiences, Jack made many friends and acquaintances. He was admired for his loyalty, professionalism, love of life, great sense of humour, strong character, honesty and dedication to his family and friends.
Jack had many interests in his life but he was extremely passionate about Rotary, Fraser Valley Executive Club, golf, skiing, hiking, travel and bridge. He also loved to walk the promenade and pier in White Rock and sit on our balcony in the sunshine and enjoy the ocean view.
Since being diagnosed in May of 2019 with inoperable stage 4 pancreatic cancer Jack fought valiantly with a smile and a positive attitude until April 9th, 2020 when he lost the battle. Jack passed away peacefully in his sleep as per his wishes.
"There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love"
If you wish, a donation may be made in Memory of Jack Klinkhamer to the BC Cancer Foundation or the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation.
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