Obituary of John Johannes Aries

March 17, 1931 - Amsterdam, Netherlands

May 23, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

Johannes (Jack) Aries of Calgary, AB passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at the age of 93 years.

Jack was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands on March 17, 1931. Jack was eighteen years old when he went through Ellis Island to come to Canada for a visit. He was sent by his father, Hendrik Stefanus and his mother, Ellig je, to check on his sister, Rita, who was a war bride living in Yorkton, SK. While there, Jack met his beautiful wife Rita and Canada became his forever home. Jack and Rita were happily married for seventy years.

When Jack arrived in Yorkton he began working for Beaver Lumber where he had a long and successful career for over forty years. He rose to Regional Manager of Western Canada. Jack was known for his strong work ethic and people skills. He was always respectful, kind, considerate and honest.

Jack was predeceased by his daughter Brenda and is survived by his loving wife Rita, his sons, Duayne (Karen) and Darrel (Cecile), and five grandchildren, Claire, Zachary (Dani), Chanel (Brendan), Noah (Sonya) and Quaid (Cassandra). Jack also has a great-grandson Zachary, and Dani is due to arrive in August.

Jack made a lasting impression on everyone he met. His generosity and zest for life were contagious! He lived life to the fullest and valued family first. He seized every opportunity to celebrate the milestones of life and always said, "Yes!" to dancing! His spirit lives on in the stories of his life that he loved to share with those who knew him.

Jack will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his family and friends. “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die” -Thomas Campbell.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Jack’s family here.

In living memory of Jack Aries, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.