Jack Arthur McCague passed away peacefully at Hospice Simcoe in his 83rd year, following surgery for cancer at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto and treatment at the Royal Victoria Hospital Hudson Regional Cancer Centre in Barrie, Ontario.
Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Rita Simone McCague (née Boissonneault), and by his adored granddaughter, Madilynn (Maddy) Constance McCague, who lovingly called him “Pa.”
Jack will be lovingly remembered by valued friends Laura and Kailey (Sebastien); by his sisters Linda (predeceased by Ross), Cathy (predeceased by Melvyn), Carol, and Laurie (Tom); by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins; by sisters-in-law Sue (Tim) and Shirley (predeceased by Gord); and by brother-in-law Pat (Janet). Jack was predeceased by his sister-in-law Monica.
Jack was the only son of Mary Amy Wauchope McCague and Kirwood McCague. With his parents and sisters, he spent his formative years on the family farms on the 8th and 9th Lines of New Tecumseth. During these years, a cherished lifelong bond developed between Jack and his cousin, William Donald Lilly KC, FSA Scot.
Jack lived with “Donnie” and his aunt and uncle, Freda and Lloyd Lilly (Kirwood’s sister and her husband), while attending university in Toronto, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English.
Jack and Donnie were each other’s best men at weddings held just five weeks apart in 1972. Their brides, Rita and Marney, embraced and treasured their relationship. In retirement, the four often joined by Maddy spoke many times each month across the Atlantic by phone and enjoyed memorable visits to England.
After graduating, Jack joined the CIBC head office, where he rose quickly to the executive level. He and Rita moved to North Toronto, where they raised their two young sons, Jason and Jordan. In 2003, Rita and Jack moved to Midhurst, where Jack pursued a very successful career as a Realtor with Royal LePage, Alliston.
Jack was an optimistic, loyal, kind, faithful, and loving man who faced change and tragedy with remarkable dignity and courage. At the age of 25, he lost his father, Kirwood. In 1976, Jack and Rita suffered the heartbreaking loss of their infant son, Matthew, and in 2019, the loss of their son, Jordan.
Jack’s son Jason and his family live independently in Oakville.
The pride and joy of Jack’s final decade was his precious granddaughter, Maddy. Following the tragic deaths of her parents, Jordan and Tara, in 2019, Jack and Rita lovingly secured guardianship of Maddy and devoted themselves to her care.
Jack died as he lived: with dignity, courage, and the grace of a true gentleman. He was supported by Rita and Maddy, and by the extraordinary, selfless, capable, and loving care provided by Sue and Tim.
Rita and Maddy extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and volunteers at Hospice Simcoe, who provided such outstanding care and comfort to Jack.
In memory of Jack, the family would appreciate donations to Hospice Simcoe.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
liam doherty says
My sincere condolences to Rita, Maddy and family. Jack was beyond kind and patient to my now deceased daughter when she was struggling with her illness. I’m forever grateful to him. RIP Jack.
Sarah.D says
I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
My condolences to Maddy, Rita and the family.
May time and love gently heal your broken hearts. Sending you deep sympathy, comfort, and strength during this hard time.
Laurie Mortimer says
My condolences to his family and friends. I too worked with Jack at Royal Lepage, he was always a gentleman and the thing I remember most is how he spoke with love care and softness to his family on the telephone, as our desks were attached at one point.
Beth Wilmott says
Rita, we are so very sorry to hear of the death of Jack ….way too soon. I’ll miss seeing him saunter up Holloway Lane with Maddy alongside on her bicycle. A lovely tribute here characterizing him as we saw him…a true gentleman.
Delphine Archibald says
Deepest sympathy to the family. Many,many years ago we were neighbours at the north end of Beeton.Rest in peace. Jack
Heather Parsons says
Dear Rita and Maddy, I am so sorry you have lost your loved Jack and Pa. I enjoyed seeing Jack out playing with Maddy, going for walks in the neighborhood, and talking over the fence. Sending you both healing hugs
Heather Parsons
John McCague says
My condolences. I had the great pleasure to work with Jack as a fellow Realtor. I’m glad I got to know him. He always met me with a smile.
Karen Morton says
I enjoyed working with you in real estate for a few years at the Alliston office of Royal LePage, now Royal LePage RCR .
Gail King says
My heartfelt condolences to you, Rita and Maddy.
I’ve been thinking about you and remembering the days when Don and I were dating. I have so many fond memories of the two of you, and I will never forget Jack’s kindness, his strength, and how much it meant to me when he came to visit after Don passed away. His compassion helped me through one of the hardest times in my life, and I will always be grateful for that.
I know the pain and emptiness you’re feeling right now. In time, I hope the countless memories you and Jack shared will bring you comfort. Keep talking about him, laughing over the stories, and remembering all the wonderful times you spent together. Those memories will keep his spirit close.
Please know that you, Maddy, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you all my love and a big hug.
Renee Jefferson says
Rich and I extend our sincerest condolences to you and Maddy. Jack lived his life with devotion to you and his family. May you find peace in all your cherished memories. All our love to you during this difficult time.
Patricia Copeland says
Dear Rita
My heartfelt condolences to you, Maddy and your family.
Jack was such a kind person. Steve and l will always remember him as a proud grandfather and a loving husband to you Rita.
With Prayers
Patricia and Steve Copeland