YATES, JOHN (JACK) ALLISTER - It is with great sadness that the family of John (Jack) Allister Yates of 275 Uplands Ave., Miramichi, NB, announces his passing at the Saint John Regional Hospital on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at the age of 77. Jack was the son of the late George Samuel and Ivy Christina (Johnston) Yates. He was the past secretary of Miramichi Golf & Country Club, past member of Board of Directors of Newcastle Minor Hockey Association and past secretary of the Canadian Pulp & Paper Association ,Technical Section -Standards Committee. Jack was an employee of the Mill and retired from Miramichi Pulp and Paper in 1991 as the Technical Superintendent in the Kraft Pulp Division. Jack held this position for many years because he loved the job and the people he felt privileged to spend his working day with. His passion for high work standards were unparalleled. A top priority for him was making sure things were looked after most importantly, his people. A true family man, Jack was always the perfect gentleman to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kind and gentle demeanor touched many in his life; from family to social settings to his work life to his commitment to his community; he touched us all. Always smiling and humble, he wanted to make sure all were looked after before himself-a quality so selfless and humane that amazed his family. People who knew him-recognized his gift of human compassion to this world and were drawn to him. His darkest hours were made bearable by his courteous demeanor and "Thank you's" and made his struggle seem insignificant. That's the way Jack was - a "People" person - someone who always made those around him feel better. Jack leaves behind a loving and gracious wife, Isobel (Dickison), who he affectionately looked after; three loving children, John (Cindy) of Rothesay, NB, Andrew (Krista) of Quispamsis, NB and Carolyn Mullin (Doug) of South Nelson, NB; four wonderful grandchildren, who worshipped their tremendous Grampy, Nathan, Garrett, Lucas and Maggie. They were the apple of his eye and provided much enjoyment. Jack will be missed by all who knew him - a true "Gem" to this world. His family was so proud of him and his contribution to society. Many thanks on behalf of Jack are extended to those who graciously attended to him in his final days including the doctors and nurses of the Internal Medicine Unit at the Saint John Regional Hospital. At Jack's request there will no visitation at the Funeral Home. A private Family Funeral Service will be held. In Jack's memory a donation may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Bell's Funeral Home, 651 King George Highway, Miramichi, NB, telephone 622-3600.