JOHN A. (JACK) PRIER

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JOHN A. (JACK) PRIER John A. (Jack) Prier of Winnipeg died peacefully in his sleep on December 24, 2008. He and his wife, Audrey, were visiting Gerald and Margaret Whetter of Hartney, MB, for the holidays. Jack lived for 96 years, only feeling like a senior citizen, as he said, the last few months. Jack was born November 14, 1912 in Hanover, Ontario, to George and Carrie Mae Prier. He was the oldest of four children and was predeceased by sisters Vivian Prier and Phylis Sanderson (Doug), both of Toronto. His youngest sister, Ruth Muggeridge (Gord), lives in Toronto. Also in the Toronto area are many nieces and nephews and their families. Jack worked for the Royal Bank in Ontario until 1953, when he was transferred to Winnipeg to work in the bank's head office for Real Estate Resources. There he met Audrey Harry, also a Royal Bank employee. Audrey had two daughters, Margaret and Catherine. Jack and Audrey were married February 25, 1956 at Deer Lodge United Church in Winnipeg. A combination of things contributed to his long and very healthy life, most important being good genetics, good luck and a balanced lifestyle. Jack lived by the principle of everything in good measure: just enough work balanced with just enough fun. Jack was quiet and methodical. He always planned ahead because he didn't like surprises or discomfort. Jack and Audrey always took good care of each other. Before coming to Winnipeg, Jack served as an air navigational instructor on the home front during the Second World War. He also honed his vocal skills, singing in the Mendelssohn Choir in Toronto under Sir Ernest MacMillan. In Winnipeg, he sang in the Philharmonic Choir as well as church choirs at Westminster and Deer Lodge. His hobbies included woodworking, curling (up to age 95), crossword puzzles, reading, dancing, journal writing and baseball. He and Audrey attended Goldeyes games regularly and watched every Blue Jays game they could get on TV. Jack was also a member of the Masonic Lodge. He and Audrey had many great travels together, including all through Canada, a trip to Europe, seven cruises, and 16 winters in Florida. Surviving Jack are his wife, and stepdaughters Catherine (Ian Hugill) of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., and Margaret (Gerald Whetter) of Hartney, Man. He has six grandchildren: Jay (Jennifer Pyzer), Jon (Tracey Salamondra), Ian (Lisa Stepnuk), Andrea, David and Alison. He also has three great-grandsons: Liam, Campbell and Jack. Jack cared deeply for Audrey and their many friends and family members. He will be greatly missed. The memorial service is planned for Wednesday, December 31 at 11:00 a.m. at Sturgeon Creek United Church, 207 Thompson Dr., in St. James. Lunch will follow. Interment will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 29, 2008