MacLeod, John “Jack”
Peacefully on June 3, 2021, John “Jack” passed away at Macassa Lodge Long Term Care at 94 years of age. Dear husband of Eleanor (Nora) for 68 years and father to sons Norman (Roberta) and John (Jamie). Loving grandfather “Gogo” to Carly (David) DiDiodato, Jonathan (Justine), Scott (Patricia) and Davis, (Rachael) as well as great- grandfather to Gabriel, Nicolas and Joseph DiDiodato and Kenneth MacLeod. Jack is predeceased by his father John MacLeod (1963), mother Christine (MacArthur)(1984), brother Norman James (2003), and sisters Katie Ann (1963), Bella Mary (1965) and Annie (2010). Jack will be missed by many in his extended family both here and across the pond, particularly, his niece Christine (Steve) Hart in Scotland and nephew Norman (Moira) Paterson in Hamilton with whom he had a close and special relationship. Jack was born in Windsor, Ontario on May 24, 1927. As an infant, he returned to Scotland with his parents and siblings, settling in the family home in Carloway, Isle of Lewis, in the Outer Hebrides. It was there that Jack developed his strong attachment to the Gaelic culture and language of the Scottish Isles. After spending his formative years in Carloway, Jack returned to Canada in 1948 as a young adult, settling in Hamilton where he had an aunt and uncle. Eventually, Jack became a member of the Hamilton Police Department; a career that stretched over 31 years, ending with his retirement in 1982. It was during his early years as a constable that he met Nora, a pretty, young Latvian lady that used to launder his work uniforms. They married in 1953 and started a family that included their two sons, Norman and Johnny. Jack has always been extremely proud of his Scottish Highland heritage including the use and preservation of the Gaelic language and culture through its music, song and literature. He was a piper with the Hamilton Police Pipes and Drums for many years and upon his retirement, continued as one of the band’s loyal followers when son Johnny carried on the tradition. He even ensured that his only granddaughter, Carly, would become a highland dancer by enrolling her in lessons at an early age. In his retirement years, to get out and keep himself busy, Jack became an avid mall walker and socializer. He enjoyed following sports including the Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, and the Tiger-Cats. He was also a lifelong supporter of the Glasgow Celtic football team. However, Jack’s greatest interest and enjoyment was five pin bowling. An above average bowler, Jack participated in many leagues through the years and bowled in as many as three leagues at a time right into his mid 80’s, making many friends along the way. The family would like to thank the staff of Macassa Lodge (C2W) for their wonderful care during his stay there. Cremation has already taken place and at Jack’s request, there will be no funeral. A private family interment will be held at a future date. Jack had a special place in his heart for all the family pets he and Nora had over the years, so it would be appreciated, if those who would like to make a donation, in his memory, can do so to the SPCA. Rest in Peace Gogo.