For now we see through a glass darkly but then Face to Face.
Jack Harper (John Edward Alexander) is now face to face with his Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ. Beloved husband of Frances Quin; loved father of Robert, 2014 (Janice), Elizabeth Wukasch (Peter), Stephen (Kathy), David (Nancy) and Colleen Hicks (Mark); cherished by his 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren (with another on the way!) who are all greatly blessed to have had him in their lives.
Jack grew up in a loving family of five in Toronto, graduated from the University of Toronto and become a teacher. He served in the Canadian Armed Forces as a medic, marrying his beloved Frances while still a soldier in February of 1945.He taught briefly with the Toronto Board of Education but soon made plans to go to Southern Africa with the South Africa General Mission. He was influenced in this decision by his church and the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. Jack and Frances together made great friends and trained pastors and teachers during their years in Malawi and Zimbabwe. Later in life he served as a special Education Teacher with the Etobicoke Board of Education. Jack loved Muskoka, and spent several summers as a section director at Camp Miniyowe on Mary Lake. He especially enjoyed canoeing, sailing and swimming in the lake. He specialized in telling exciting and wonderful stories to the children at camp, and to his children and grandchildren. One of his daily practices during his days at the cottage in Muskoka, was hiking up the hills behind the cottage to pray, read his Bible and meditate on “God’s carpet" his term for the mossy areas between the Muskoka rocks. This practice was the secret of his Christian Life, and formed his character and integrity. Jack and Frances moved to Orangeville during retirement, where he served as a volunteer at the Headwaters Health Care Center. He continued his daily swim and walks for years. He loved people, and was always friendly, caring and interested in others. He had a devoted prayer life with many who remained on his list for years. We will not know until heaven, the results of the many prayers that Jack sent forth for others.
The key to understanding his life? “Remain in Me, and I in You”, from John 15:4.
A Celebration of Jack's life and legacy will take place at Compass Community Church, 246289 Hockley Road, Orangeville, Ontario on Friday, May 19, 2017 at 12:00 p.m.
Gifts given in Jack’s honour will go towards the Compass Global Missions Fund.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.dodsandmcnair.com