John Walter (Jack) Groat, long-time resident of Sunset Prairie, BC passed away on July 28, 2014 in Dawson Creek, BC at the age of 94. Jack was born in Edmonton, Alberta on July 8, 1920, the second child of Malcolm Forbes Groat and Emma Groat (nee Oppertshauser). Jack and his family moved to Sunset Prairie when Jack was 9 years old.
Jack was a very hard working individual, determined and strong. He went to school in Sunset Prairie and worked on the family farm during his youth. Jack enlisted for military service on January 9, 1942 and saw active service in Europe. He returned to civilian life on February 28, 1946.
Jack operated caterpillar tractors cutting seismic lines and clearing land throughout the Peace Region and Northwest Territories; stooked bundles on farms; worked in sawmills and used his mechanical and welding skills to repair both heavy and farm equipment.
He lived a simple life without the comforts we take for granted – like running water, sewer and electricity. He was 90 when he stopped cutting his own firewood. Jack spent his retirement years refurbishing old tools and small equipment – repairing, sanding and painting – all by hand. He loved farm auction sales and was a well-known attendee, usually one of the first to arrive at the sale. He also loved cats and had shelters and food dishes strategically placed around his cabin and wood piles.
Jack was an avid reader: newspapers, non-fiction books, National Geographic, the Beaver (Canada’s History); Alaska; and The Yukon.
Jack was predeceased by his parents and all of his siblings – brothers Malcolm, Robert, Allan (Buster), Kenneth and sister Dorothy.
At Jack’s request there will be no funeral.
Expressions of sympathy in memory of Jack may be made to:
SPCA South Peace Branch
637-114 Avenue
Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3A1