Born in Meaford, Ontario, on November 21, 1939, John “Jack” Campbell passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at Langley Memorial Hospital at age 86.
Jack is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sharon; daughter Tracey (Reid); son Greg (Julie); and his three beloved grandchildren, Madison, Danica, and Maverick. He was predeceased by his parents, Lillie and Alex Campbell, sister Jean Ann Skippen, and brother Bob Campbell. He is survived by his sister Brenda Doran, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Jack was born and raised with his siblings on the family farm in Meaford. Because of his asthma, farm life wasn’t the right fit for him, and at 17 he began his career at the Meaford TD Bank. A few years later, while out fishing in Barrie, he reeled in the best catch of the night — his future bride, Sharon. Jack and Sharon married in 1965 and shared 61 wonderful years filled with family, adventure, laughter, and love — a partnership that was admired by all who knew them. In 1969, Jack’s work brought them to British Columbia, where they built their life together and welcomed their children, Tracey and Greg.
Jack loved being a dad and took great pride in supporting Tracey and Greg in their hobbies, interests, and education. Some of his favourite memories included coaching Tracey’s softball team and skiing with Greg. He was overjoyed to see both Tracey and Greg marry and build loving families of their own, later welcoming his cherished grandchildren, Madison, Danica, and Maverick. Being a husband, dad, and Poppa brought Jack so much pride because his family meant everything to him.
Jack’s retirement from the bank in 1997 marked the beginning of many adventures for him and Sharon. Together they travelled the world, visiting every continent and creating unforgettable memories along the way — from African safaris to climbing the Great Wall of China and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, exploring Machu Picchu, cruising with family and friends, and enjoying regular trips to Hawaii, Mexico, and back home to Ontario to visit loved ones. Closer to home, they loved camping adventures in their motorhome throughout BC and the United States.
When he wasn’t travelling, Jack enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved doing puzzles, playing crib, reading Louis L’Amour books in the backyard, listening to country music, drinking a Coors Lite with a dash of salt, and cheering on his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs and the South Surrey Eagles. You could also find him on the sidelines supporting his grandchildren at their soccer games. Friday coffee gatherings with his friends at Mike’s Pizza and taking his ’66 Mustang to local car shows and A&W cruise nights were also among his favourite things to do.
Jack believed strongly in giving back to his community and was a proud Rotarian for 45 years, receiving numerous awards, including two Paul Harris awards. He also spent countless hours volunteering with the Starfish Backpack Program, ringing bells for the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign, and playing Santa Claus for charitable organizations.
Jack was a devoted family man who would do anything for those he loved. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, Poppa, uncle, brother, and friend whose twinkling blue eyes, mischievous grin, and playful sense of humour brought joy to everyone around him. If you knew Jack, you knew he loved teasing, was rarely without a comb in his pocket, and could never resist a handful of jujubes or a piece of peanut brittle.
Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
As per Jack’s wishes, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rotary International (http://my.rotary.org/en/donate) or your local Salvation Army in his memory.
