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John STAGG Obituary
STAGG, John Ewart (Jack), Deputy Minister, Veterans Affairs Canada 1947-2006
With grace and dignity, at home in Ottawa, his family by his side, on Wednesday August 9.
Loving husband of Bonnie Laurie and devoted father to Amary and Wallis, Jack will also be missed by his mother, Lila Stagg, brother Robert (Barbara), and many family members and friends. He is predeceased by his father Garnet (Bill) Stagg, and his brother Douglas (Holly).
Jack achieved an enviable balance of work and homelife, achieving much in his 32-year Public Service career while devoting time to his community, his family and his many hobbies, which included cooking, gardening, fishing and roller-blading.
The son of two Veterans, Jack was born and raised in Galt (Cambridge) Ontario. After graduating with a BA and a Masters in History from McMaster University (Hamilton), Jack spent two years with Prentice-Hall. In 1974, he began his public service career. At the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs, Jack was a skilled negotiator, helping settle many Northern land claims, and negotiating the Political Accord which framed the creation of the new Territory of Nunavut. During this time, Jack and his wife Bonnie spent a year in England, where he earned his PhD in Modern History from Cambridge University, while Bonnie pursued her teaching career.
In 1999, he was appointed Associate Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. In 2003, after a two-year term as the Deputy Minister of Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada, Jack was appointed Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs, where he championed the Year of The Veteran project as well as the New Veteran's Charter Legislation. A genuine mentor, Jack will be remembered by his many current and former colleagues as a caring, compassionate and disciplined leader.
Jack played as hard as he worked. He loved all sports and enjoyed nothing more than rising early to roller-blade before shopping and preparing a fine meal for family and friends. Strangers also benefited from his culinary skills, as he was a regular volunteer at the Knox Presbyterian 'Out Of The Cold' program.
Though Jack was not a veteran of any war, he was a veteran of life. He enjoyed much, he endured much, and his spirit will live on with those whose lives he touched.
Special thanks to Dr. John Seely of the Ottawa Hospital (General Campus), as well as all of the staff of the 5th Floor, the doctors and nurses of the Ottawa Cancer Centre, VON and At Home Hospice.
Donations in Jack's memory to the Knox Presbyterian Church 'Out of the Cold' Program, 120 Lisgar Street (at Elgin), Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 0C2, would be appreciated.
A private family funeral will be followed by a Memorial Service to be held in September, in Ottawa. Condolences/ Donations at: www.mcgarryfamily.ca (613) 233-1143.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John STAGG
36 Entries
John Licharson
September 21, 2006
Jack, simply put, was one of the very best with whom I worked in 33 years in the federal government. Dedicated, smart, sympathetic and loyal, both to those for whom he worked and to those who worked for him. Persons of quality, such as he, are sorely missed long after their time.
Joseph Gough
August 26, 2006
I knew Jack Stagg from 1999 until his death, and found him a man of knowledge, integrity, and action. At the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, his direct involvement helped give hundreds of Native people a new livelihood in the commercial fishery. He applied a long-term perspective to immediate problems, and moved matters forward with courage, determination, and good cheer. Among many other actions at DFO, Jack sponsored me to complete a long-needed history of fisheries management. I remain grateful for his insight and support, and I salute his memory.
Robert and Jean Hage
August 25, 2006
Dear Bonnie: Since we live far from Ottawa now we have just learned of Jack's untimely death. We would like to express our sympathy to you and the girls at this difficult time. One of the things we planned on doing when we finish our posting here was returning to the Out of the Cold program at Knox and join the others in being able to sample Jack's famous chile. The years he devoted to cooking Saturday night meals is but one example of his concern for others. He was a man with a big heart and friendly smile and we will miss him. May God bless, Bob and Jean
Betty Jean Bone
August 23, 2006
Dear Bonnie
Your grief following Jack’s death will be understood but understanding his death will take time. I hope you will be comforted remembering your lifetime with Jack and
knowing others are thinking of you.
During afternoons at Out of the Cold at Knox Presbyterian, my connection was very brief with Jack but everyone, on arrival to prepare the meal, was immediately aware of Jack standing at the stove making wonderful chili and rice and leaving it in confidence to be served later in the afternoon. His demeanor was subtle but his contribution was so essential to the success of the program.
My sincere condolences, Bonnie, to you and to your daughters.
Liseanne Forand
August 16, 2006
As the many entries in this guest book express, in words both accurate and heartfelt, Jack was a very special person who gave generously of his many gifts. I have had the privilege of following in his footsteps as ADM Northern Affairs, and can attest to the high regard in which so many Northerners hold him. His example has served as guidance and inspiration to me in the job, and I can't count the number of times when events, people and circumstances have reminded me of him and his achievements. My thoughts were with him in the first days of August, when I knew his tremendous strength was failing, as I travelled through the Northwest Passage, where nature, history and time itself seem to come together in the ice that stretches to the horizon. I wished him godspeed under a midnight sun, and gave thanks for having known and learned from him. Thank you to Bonnie and his family for having shared him with us all.
Margaret Melhorn
August 14, 2006
It was with sadness that I learned of Jack's death last week. I met Jack during the numerous meetings between Canada and the territories on territorial formula financing in the 1980s, when Jack had the pleasure of leading this file for the federal government. I remember best his wonderful sense of humour, a gift that meant that, even after a long session of negotiations, we all still wanted to go out for dinner together. Jack's understanding of northern issues and his commitment to the north will long be remembered and appreciated. I offer my condolences to his family.
Jacquie Prokopanko
August 14, 2006
My Deepest Sympathies to the Stagg Family
I had the pleaure to work with Jack when he was Director General of the North/ADM of INAC. Jack was an inspiration to work with not only because of his brillant mind but because he had a big heart and an easy laugh. Jack has left his mark on both the public service and on the North. Jack and I have kept in touch over the years and I always enjoyed catching up with him when he was in Vancouver or I was in Ottawa. Jack will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
Eva Kmiecic Paul Migus
August 14, 2006
From his work with the National Archives to his volunteer leadership with the Institute on Governance Board, our lives have intersected with Jack Stagg, and been enriched by him. He represented for us the best of the public service, the highest ethical standards and principled leadership, and we will miss him.
Evelyn and Willard Phelps
August 14, 2006
Dear Bonnie and Family,
We were deeply saddened at Jack's passing. We worked with Jack for several years in the early eighties during negotiations on the Yukon Indian land claim. We shared hard work, good times and many laughs during those years. We had not seen Jack for quite awhile until last May when he travelled to Yukon to deliver a speech to Veterans on behalf of his Minister. We spent a wonderful evening with Jack at our cabin in Carcross reminiscing about old times. How fortunate we are to have had that evening with him. Jack was a bright, enthusiastic, caring and honest person who made many friends in Yukon. We will not forget him. Our condolences to you and family.
Catherine McBride
August 14, 2006
Jack took me under his wing in the early 1990s in Northern Affairs Program when I was the junior member of the Nunavut Team. Even after we stopped working together, he continued to be a support and a mentor to me, always giving me the best advice. The most important things that I learned about negotiations, about how government works, and about how to fit within the system I learned from Jack. He will be greatly missed.
Maureen Dunnigan
August 14, 2006
As it has been said many times over, Jack was a very personable, kind and caring man to work for. I will never forget the mornings when he was DM of IRSR, and would arrive with his mother's home baked goods, and want me to be the sampler...We had many great chats before the day began, and he taught me how to make a great cup of coffee. My condolescences to his family. Jack will be missed by all.
Peter Bower
August 13, 2006
We still have the fondest memories of Jack rushing (at his insistence) to Laval University from Ottawa with a carload of the hot-off-the-press first issue of Archivaria (1975/6) for distribution to prove that publishing the scholarly journal was feasible and could be done on a timely basis. Jack was the first (and only) Managing Editor and was instrumental in helping to establish this ambitious publication that immediately gained international recognition. Nancy Stunden joins me in offering our condolences to Bonnie and family.
Peter Bower
Elizabeth Snider
August 12, 2006
Bonnie, Amary and Wallis I have just heard the sad news about Jack. I first met Jack when he was a student at McMaster University and went on to work with him on many interesting northern projects. Jack focussed his intelligence and skills on the work at hand but his tremendous sense of humour and fun made working with him both rewarding and enjoyable. He will be missed by the many friends and colleagues that knew him throughout his career. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Liz Snider
Robert Mercer
August 11, 2006
Fortunate are the people who knew Jack Stagg, and blessed are those who knew him well. I will miss his wise counsel, his words of encouragement, his choice of phrase, and his wonderful smile. I wish I had know him much earlier in my life. Thank you Jack!
Hiram Beaubier
August 11, 2006
My condolences to Bonnie and Family. I had the real privilge of working with Jack for many years in DIAND. He was always professional and a thoroughly nice person who had the respect of all.
Kirk Cameron
August 11, 2006
I worked with Jack in the 1990s in the Northern Affairs Program. His vision and commitment to the place of the northern territories in our Country was truly inspiring. I learned much from Jack.
Stephen Walsh
August 11, 2006
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Laurette Glasgow
August 11, 2006
Au nom de tout le personnel de l'Ambassade du Canada en France, je souhaite vous offrir nos condoléances les plus sincères, mais aussi notre "mémoire partagée" d'un homme de vision et d'engagement. Jack's courage was ever so remarkable in his recent participation at the 90th Anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. It meant a great deal to him, but it also inspired us all. He will be missed and he will be remembered. Peace. Laurette Glasgow, Chargé d'Affaires, Canadian Embassy, Paris, France
Keith and Cindy Hillier
August 11, 2006
It was with great sadness that we heard of Jack's death. We can only imagine the heartbreak of losing a wonderful husband and father. He was very much admired by all those with whom he interacted. Please know that our thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time.
Bryan Lymburner
August 10, 2006
Bonnie and Family: I had the privilege of working with Jack for many years and found him to be a friend and ally through thick and thin. He served as a mentor to many and an inspiration to those that chose to pursue public service careers. I will hold always in fond memory the achievements made with Jack's guidance in the interest of Canada's North. My condolences to those that share in this loss of a dedicated public servant.
Bryan Lymburner
Mary, Glenn,Larry, Garret and Marie Scherbarth
August 10, 2006
Bob, Barb, Jennie, Matt and Lill
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Jack's Family at this very sad time. Your memories of all the good times shared with Jack will be very special to you now and in the future. Take Care of each other .... we will be in touch shortly. Once again our "Sincerest Sympathy"
George Goodwin
August 10, 2006
We first met Jack in 2004 and he was responsible for helping Historica bring a major national remembrance project to fruition in 2005. We valued his advice, his counsel, and more than anything his appreciation of the importance of Canadian history. Schoolchildren across Canada will be benefiting from his initiative for many years to come.
Bob Demmery
August 10, 2006
My sincere condolences to Bonnie and Family.
I will treasue the memories of my pilgrimages with Jack for Veterans Affairs.
It was a privliledge to have known him,
Kevin Fram
August 10, 2006
It was an honour and privilege to have worked closely with Jack during his time at DFO. As others have noted, he was a genuine leader who did much to inspire those around him. He was also filled to the brim with common sense and good judgment. His courage, wisdom and determination during a very tense period on the East coast served the Department --indeed all Canadians -- exceptionally well. I admired and respected Jack. He made a great contribution to the Public Service and he will be sorely missed. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Rosemarie Kuptana, O.C., LLD
August 10, 2006
I had the wonderful privilege of working with Jack Stagg from the "other" side of the table. I was honoured to have worked with him.
Celia Stock Asselin
August 10, 2006
Bonnie,Amary,and Wallis and all Jack's family members:
Please accept our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy. I have worked with Jack on comprehensive claims, self-government and northern issues since the 1970s. He was one who was instrumental in the advancement of northern people and issues. Jack was one of the most accomplished people I know, and he was a great boss who encouraged and promoted people, and always took time to explain things.
Jack was known for his compassion, service to the community, and his marvelous sense of humour. When I think of Jack, I think not only of all his endeavours and successes, but also of his wonderful humanity, his smile, and his infectious laugh.
He will be sorely missed. As Sir Walter Scott said in this lament:
"He is gone from the mountain,
He is lost to the forest,
Like a summer-dried fountain
When our need was the sorest"
With all best regards, Celia, Edouard, & Nicolas Asselin and David H. Searle.
Michael Trottier
August 10, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. I only knew Jack in his professional capacity but I always found him to be a pleasant and most engaging person. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Gilles Lavergne
August 10, 2006
One of the best Deputy Ministers Veterans Affairs has known. Please accept my deepest sympathy in this difficult time. Having lost my own wife last year, I can appreciate how difficult this may be for you and your family.
James McKillip
August 10, 2006
My condolences to Jack's family. He was a fine man in a difficult world. I am honoured to have known him even a little.
Major Jim McKillip
Diana Jardine
August 10, 2006
I had the privilege to work with Jack at Indian and Northern Affair. His spirit has indeed left a lasting impression with me and I often use the memory of it for inspiration. I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences to his family.
Erica Coghlin
August 10, 2006
Amary,
I'm thinking of you and your family during this tough time. Take care of each other.
Kind regards,
Erica Coghlin.
Suzanne Levesque
August 10, 2006
As my first Deputy Minister, Mr Stagg will always hold a special place in my memory. Although I worked under his command but a short time, I quickly came to admire and appreciate his determination, persistence and good humour.
Francine Aoun (PCO)
August 10, 2006
Deepest sympathies.
Jan Maydan
August 10, 2006
Mr. Stagg is one of the most inspiring and down-to-earth leaders I have ever worked for. His public accomplishments are many, particularly championing a better life for veterans, First Nations, and the North, but I will remember his pride in his family, his and his mother's baking that he would share with colleagues, his delight in life, his acute understanding of the role each of us has in history, his sense of humour, and the shared experiences he would discover in people. It is a very great privilege to have known him and shared stories about attending one-room schools, both parents being veterans of WWII, having great life partners and wonderful daughters and travelling in remote areas of Canada.
My sympathies to his family.
Grant Mahood
August 10, 2006
On behalf of the National Executive Council and all the members of the Air Force Association of Canada, I send our sincere condolences on your loss. Jack Stagg was a staunch supporter of all Veterans and worked diligently on their behalf. I personally served on a Committee with him and will always remember our trip to the Netherlands. He will be missed.
"We will remember him."
Per Ardua Ad Astra
Grant E. ‘Ted’ Mahood, CD
National President
Air Force Association of Canada
Chantal Rousselot
August 10, 2006
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
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