Tribute

It is with great sadness that the family of John Byron (Jack) MacDonald announces his passing on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Willingdon Creek Village at the age of 83. Born June 27, 1942 in Powell River, Jack never left the town he loved and excelled in soccer and fastball, and coached his sons in baseball and hockey. He was a catcher during the glory days of Powell River Senior Men’s Fastball, and he caught his brother-in-law Jack Lockstead, (husband of his only sister, Gloria, both deceased) and other local pitching legends Herb Gawley, Les Zohner and George Hanna, amongst others, with the Westview Hotel, Coast Paving and Labatt’s. His signature was playing with only a mask, without shin guards or a chest protector, and racing batters to first base to snare any errant throws.

Dad started in the MacMillan Bloedel Powell River pulp and paper mill in 1961, and went back to school in the 1970’s to became a Millwright, which he enjoyed while working on the platform with his buddies until taking early leave at age 55, and officially retiring at 65. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1974, Dad stubbornly refused to give into the disease and through sheer force of will, enjoyed a full life filled with recreation well past what many believed possible. Ski trips to Silver Star in Vernon and Mt. Washington in Courtenay were a regular and fun part of Dad, Mom, Jason and Tania’s lives. Dad also enjoyed woodworking in his shop and crafted many intricate wooden toys, logging trucks and other working vehicles which were treasured by family and friends.

Dad was one of the earlier pioneers of having a float cabin on Powell Lake, and the family “Mac’s Cabin” across from Rainbow Lodge was a favorite family gathering spot and host of numerous Millwright Fishing Derbies over the years. He organized many sports related draws for his workmates, many of whom joined him on legendary fishing and prawning trips up the coast.

Dad was a loving husband to Anita, of whom he would often say: “I won the lottery without even buying a ticket”, and was close to their children, Tania (Brown), Jason (Poole), and his sons Brian and Mark MacDonald, and loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren very much. Dad was a very generous father and friend, and his determination and “no BS” trademark was an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and he will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cranberry Seniors Centre at 6792 Cranberry Street. For further information or details, contact westan@telus.net