John "Jack" Mcirvine

McIRVINE, John Douglas “Jack” - It is with great sadness that the family of Dr. John ‘Jack’ McIrvine announce his passing at the age of 93 on June 12, 2022 in Gravenhurst, Ontario.

Jack will be greatly missed by Britt-Marie McIrvine, his wife and best friend of 69 years.  He was predeceased by his brother Edward (Ted) in 2019. He was much loved by cousins Barb Thatcher (and partner Bill), as well as John and Elsie Lindgren.

Born in Regina and raised in Winnipeg, Jack then went to the United States to complete a doctorate in chemical engineering from the University of Wisconsin.   This is where he met Britt, the love of his life.

Jack’s career as a chemical engineer found him working in the explosives industry with CIL/ICI Canada, initially in Quebec and then in Ontario.  He also spent many years as a consultant involved in hazardous materials clearing as well as composting.

Jack and Britt spent many years involved in activities that they loved doing together.  Some of their favourites were square dancing, car rallying, as well as backpacking in Vermont.   After they relocated to Ontario they also cottaged on Lake Muskoka.  Once in Muskoka, Jack continued to make important contributions to several organizations as a volunteer. He gave his time and expertise to CPS (Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons) as an instructor and an officer.  His technical skills and a passion for steamships also led him to support the engineering needs of the RMS Segwun and most recently the electrification of the Wanda III.  After more than 20 years of volunteering Jack was recognized for his efforts by receiving an Ontario Volunteer Service Award in 2012.

Jack (and Britt) were also very active and long term members of the Probus Club of Bracebridge. The club was a very important part of his life.  He will be missed by his many friends at Probus.

A celebration of life honouring Jack will be held on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst.