Obituary - John 'Jack' McKenzie

June 25, 1944 ~ September 5, 2025

John William ‘Jack’ McKenzie passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the age of 81 years. Along with his loving wife, Loraine, left to cherish Jack’s memory are his children, Jason McKenzie, Les (Crystal) McKenzie, and Alison (Derek) Kessel; step-children, Joy (Brian) Kalmring, Jeff Pede and Dan (Donna) Pede; nine grandchildren, Skyler (Breena) McKenzie, Peyton McKenzie, Tessa Bailey (Clayton) and Brooklyn Bailey; step-grandchildren, Chloe Kalmring, Kole (Tara) Kalmring, Dylan Pede, Sebastian Pede and Brendin (MacKenzie) Pede; five great-grandchildren, Myles, Rayne, Hadley, Cohen and Kenai as well as his special friend, Ralph. He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Eileen McKenzie; brother, Howard McKenzie; sister, Ethel Ries-McKenzie and step-grandson, Jordan Pede.

Jack was born on June 25, 1944, in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, where he was raised and attended school. From an early age, Jack developed a strong work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life.

Jack’s career was as diverse as his talents. In the mid 60’s, he moved to the west coast, from Vancouver to Alaska, building schools before moving back to Maple Creek where he worked on the ranch, built houses and was the maintenance man for the school district in Maple Creek. In 1989, Jack moved to Medicine Hat where he continued his work as a carpenter. In 1998, Jack took on the role of maintenance man at the Medicine Hat Lodge, a job well-suited to his skill set. That same year, he and Loraine moved to 40 Mile Park, where Jack served as park manager. In 2000, they returned to Medicine Hat, where Jack held numerous jobs, proving himself to be a true “Jack of all trades” who could fix or build just about anything.

On February 5, 2000, Jack married his ‘honey bun’, Loraine Pede (nee Haffner) in Bow Island and together they shared 27 years of adventures, including spending winters in Yuma, Arizona, from 2006 to 2010—a time Jack especially cherished; “Yuma Bouno!”. Always together like a bird to a feather.

Outside of work, Jack had many passions. He loved fishing, horses, camping and the simple joys of being outdoors. He enjoyed curling, baseball and hockey and was proud of his grandson’s accomplishments in hockey and equally proud of all of his grandchildren’s achievements in their lives. Known for his easy going nature, Jack valued visiting with friends and spending time with his family most of all.

Animals also held a special place in his heart, and he adored his loyal companions, Dolly dog and Toby cat.

Jack’s life was one of hard work, love, and friendship. He lived life to the fullest and will be truly missed.

The family would like to thank the EMS workers as well as the doctors and nurses on 5 West of the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital for the care and attention they provided to Jack during his time there.

Dignified cremation has taken place. A private time of remembrance was held. Memorial donations in Jack’s name may be made directly to the SPCA, 55 Southwest Drive S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8E8.