Jack Simonsen
1921-2010

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Jack Simonsen announces his passing on Oct 14, 2010 at the age of 89. He is survived by his sons Keith (Joanne) and Neil, daughter Stephanie (Jim), and grandchildren Kelli (Marc), Dana (Jennifer) and Jill (Johnathan) as well and several great grandchildren. Also mourning his passing will be brothers Simon (Gladys), Vagn (Ann) and Ove (Phyllis) and sisters Louise, Eva (Harvey), and Inge (John). He was predeceased by his wife Ann, parents Simon and Anna, and his brother Chris.

Jack was born in Stenum, Denmark and immigrated with his family to a farm near Redvers Saskatchewan in the 1920's. After schooling in the public system he moved to Ryerson Polytechical College in Toronto for a degree in Engineering. He enrolled into the Air Force during the Second World War and spent his formidable technical talent repairing airplanes. After the war he embarked on a career with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation where he remained until retirement as head of operations and planning for the Maritimes. While at the CBC he covered the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II for which he received a Coronation Medal, was part of the team that established satellite television and radio signal distribution to 95% of all Canadians via Anik 1, and spent many years hosting and training foreign broadcasters in satellite communication.

Jack was also very active in the charity and service sectors; working tirelessly for the "March of Dimes" and his service to his community and internationally reached it's zenith with Rotary International where he was awarded their highest honour - A Paul Harris Fellow. In addition he was made a lifetime member of a local Rotary Club in Halifax for many years of distinguished service.

Visitation will take place on Saturday Oct 16th from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at A. L. Mattatall Funeral Home, 217 Portland Street, Dartmouth, NS. The service of remembrance will take place in the Chapel of Mattatall Funeral Home on Monday Oct 18th at 11:00 AM. Private Internment to follow.

Donations can be made to Rotary International or the charity of your choice. You may leave an on-line condolence for the family by visiting www.mattatallfuneralhome.com