MEMORIES OF JACK MYTON
Ten years ago we moved to Signal Hill and took up residence next door to Jack and Nim. Little did we know we were about to be acquainted with extraordinary neighbours. First we learned Jack had copious ideas on how we could improve the look of our yard – many of which we adopted and appreciated over the past decade.
Then we learned that if a tool had ever been invented, Jack had it and was generous in lending it out. Not only that, if it was a rare or special tool, he probably owned the only one in southwest Calgary. When Jack and Nim sold their house, we bought several of these from them and they gave us some of the rest. Neighbours extraordinaire!! Our grandson, Lance, remembers Jack as the guy who gave him his first baseball bat.
Last January when we were in Arizona with friends, we planned to visit Jack and Nim in Yuma and were dismayed at their sudden departure for Canada. When we returned later and learned of the devastating news of his cancer, we were doubly dismayed. Throughout the spring we were astounded at Jack’s courage and resolve to see things through with dignity, humour and class.
We missed Jack and Nim when they moved away from Signal Hill but they kept in touch with us through the spring and we appreciated their close friendship. We look forward to a long and lasting friendship with Nim and will be in touch after we return to Calgary.
We said our goodbyes to Jack before leaving for Newfoundland and regret that we will not be able to attend his celebration of life. Goodbye again, Jack. It was a blast to know you and it will be rewarding to remember you.
Brandt and Cathy Miller
(in St. John’s, NL)
