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John LEITCH Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John LEITCH
61 Entries
Guy Cloutier
January 15, 2021
Simply put, Jack Leitch was a great man, not not only for what he accomplished but also for how he was. It was easy and a pleasure to go out of your way for him, to go above and beyond and give him your best. My life was enriched for having worked with him, and am proud for having had the opportunity.
Bruce Montgomery
December 24, 2020
I was just looking on the internet and discovered that Mr Leitch passed away, he was very much of a gentleman and l am sure that people that really knew him would say the same.
To his family my condolences he lived a great life and loved life he definitely will be missed.
Bruce Montgomery
Lorrie Katz
December 8, 2020
Sorry to hear of the passing of one of the nicest people I have been lucky enough to have met! I worked at the farm in the 70’s and Mr Leitch would always have time to talk! That time was one of the best times of my life! R.I.P. Mr. Leitch , condolences to the family! Lorrie
Jackie Hookey Neehuis
November 29, 2020
My father, Capt. Wilfred Hookey worked for Upper Lakes Shipping until his death in 1972. I spent my sixteenth summer working at Leitchcroft with Jack’s horses. He was indeed a lovely and respected man.
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Frederick Kuglin
July 30, 2020
I am sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Leitch. As a young boy in the Canadian Pony Club in the 70's, I have many memories of riding at Leitchcroft. I remember Mr Leitch being very approachable at Leitchcroft, always sparing a moment of his busy schedule to chat. As well, my late Uncle
Capt. Ken Austin worked for ULS and spoke highly of Mr Leitch.
Rest in Peace.
Hans Stoger
July 24, 2020
A true gentleman and a role model for young people RIP Jack
Cindylou Thibodeau
July 19, 2020
So sorry to hear of your passing. You are greatly missed.
Marilyn Maratta
June 1, 2020
It is with a heavy heart that I learn of the passing of Mr. Leitch. To Catherine, his daughters, sister and the rest of his family, please accept my deepest sympathy. I worked at Upper Lakes Group head office for 18 years and during that time everyone I came across spoke of Mr. Leitch in the highest regard. This speaks volumes of the special type of human being that he was. I admired and respected Mr. Leitch not only for his business and personal accomplishments, but more importantly, because he was a kind man with the utmost integrity. I will remember him always. It was a privilege to have known him.
May 24, 2020
Jack, you'll be missed...
Not only did Jack hire me to design his Toronto offices and the property management office, Thornmark Capital, but I also rode in the Leitchcroft riding school for more than 10 years. When my daughter was of age she started her riding career there as well.
Leitchcroft was a spectacular equestrian centre and we 'Leitchcroft-ers' remain one big family still today. I have many cherished memories from those days and some were when Jack and I would go for our 'hacks'.
My condolences to Jack's family and friends.
Thank you Jack! You'll not be forgotten
Warm regards, Karen Holmberg-Cash
Susan and Rob Robertson
May 22, 2020
Our condolences to Jill, Jeannie, Catherine, and family.
Unfortunately our message last weekend did not get posted for technical reasons apparently.
We have such fond memories of Mr. Leitch and our time at Leitchcroft. We worked on the farm at various times from 1975 1986. It was a pleasure to know such a wonderful gentleman, and his kindness, generosity and support are even more appreciated looking back. He always welcomed news on the home bred young horses and their development. Plus, enjoyed his rides around the farm on Mr. Bud, Cadet and others, as well time in the barn. A long successful life, he will be missed.
Attached is a photo of Jack from the 1982 3 Day Eventing World Championships in Luhmulen, Germany while walking the cross country course when there to cheer on his horse Jack the Lad.
Susan Ward Robertson and Rob Robertson
Jeanie Craig (nee Fladgate)
May 22, 2020
I have many great memories of Jack as a young girl in my early teens. My mother Ruth Fladgate was Jacks cousin and we stayed at their farm a couple of times in the summer. I love horses and was so excited to be able to ride the beautiful horses they had there. My memories are very fond ones of Jack. He was an amazing man and lived a long wonderful life. My thoughts and prayers go out to Catherine, and all of his family. Lucky them to have such an wonderful man in their lives.
Felicia Houtman
May 22, 2020
I want to send my condolences to the Leitch family. Jack Leitch, his name was the sound track of my childhood. My father, Tom Houtman, had been a seaman on the Great Lakes for many years and one of the founders of the Canadian Seamens Union. Gordon hired him as Personnel Manager, and later he became Vice President of Human Resources for Upper Lakes Shipping for many years under Jacks tenure. My dad spoke of U.L.S. under Jacks leadership being the only shipping company that stood up to Hal Banks, leader of the Seafarers International Union (S.I.U.). In the early 60s Upper Lakes refused to sign with Banks, which led to disruption of shipping traffic on the Great Lakes. In 1962 the Norris Commission was established to investigate Maritime Unions, leading to Bankss fall. My dad testified at that Commission, and Jack had his back throughout that difficult period.
My father often spoke of Jack and appreciated his courage and open-mindedness as head of Upper Lakes Shipping. He described Jack as a true gentleman, a good soul, and interested in his employees on the Great Lakes. Jack attended my dads funeral, my family truly appreciated his caring.
With Sincere Condolences,
dorothy mills
May 20, 2020
e was the greatest man i have ever had the pleasure to work for R.I.P.Mr. Leitch
Canadian Association
May 20, 2020
On behalf of all members past and present of the Canadian Masters and Chiefs Association all honours and condolences are extended to Mr. Leitchs family and friends. Mr. Leitch had a hand in forming our association which is still helping Masters and Chief Engineers now sailing on the Lakes and Sea Coasts. It was an honour to work for and with Uncle Jack. His influence will live on in those of us who cherish his memory.
May 20, 2020
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Catherine and the family for the loss of Jack. He was a long time member and Chairman of the Dofasco Board. He was very loyal and deeply committed to the company and was an effective Chairman. When he retired he was affectionately and unofficially referred to as the Chairman for Life. He will be greatly missed.
Charles Hantho
Eve Gordon
May 19, 2020
I remember him well- he connected ! He was friends of my husband Crawford Gordon who died 3 years ago .Jack was just a wonderful man - how lucky those of us who came across him in our lives - you all have an enormous loss but so much joy and inspiration !!
Ian MacGregor
May 18, 2020
I had the privilege of being associated with Jack in various advisory and executive capacities over the years. Of his many qualities, Jack's enthusiasm, loyalty, sense of humour and commitment to make a contribution to Canadian business and society stood out. It was indeed a great pleasure to know Jack both professionally and as a friend and I shall miss him. Sincere condolences to Catherine and the Leitch family.
BRIAN TAMBLYN
May 18, 2020
Condolences to Catherine, Jill, Jean and the entire family. I was privileged to know Jack through his leadership in the Canadian shipping industry, in my role as President of Georgian College from 1999-2012. We kept in touch after that on a personal level, and he made a difference in my life and with so many others. His vision, kindness, wit, generosity and even his commitment to lifelong fitness set an example for us all. A true gentleman that will be missed by so many.
sydney goldfarb
May 18, 2020
he wasthe best to work for r i p mr leitch
May 17, 2020
Remembered very fondly for his support and generosity through the years by the Toronto (Theta Xi) Chapter of the Zeta Psi Fraternity. Per Jeff Ball, Elder Historian
CMMC Division
May 17, 2020
On behalf of the Company of Master Mariners of Canada - Great Lakes Division, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and relatives of John D. Leitch. We recognize the commitment and contribution to the marine industry that marked his life. It was significant and positively impacted many lives. Some of our members who knew John and worked for him have spoken in the highest complimentary terms about his character and, in particular, about the way that he related to his personnel. He will long be remembered.
Ginette Laplante
May 16, 2020
We are with Catherine, Jill, Jeannie
and the whole Leitch family In thought.
Mister Leitch whom we have known for eleven
years will remain in our hearths forever.
With all our love Andre and Ginette
Clare Gilbert
May 16, 2020
I worked on some of Upper Lakes ships from1979 to 1994. Mr.Leitch was affectinately known by employees as Uncle Jack. I met him a couple times and he was always sincerely interested in the well being of the people who worked for him. He was a true genletman of the old school. I know he will be deeply missed by his family and friends. RIP Mr. Leitch. It was an honour to have known you.
dean Rogers
May 16, 2020
Our parents Joan and Norman Rogers knew Jack for about 55 years. We all loved his first wife Peggy who encouraged our Mom to paint and adored Catherine his second wife. From the GO Go group and so much there was a connection . Jack gave us our dog Torquil and decades later we in turn gave Jack and Catherine, Jude another black lab when our Dad's allergies prevented him from keeping her. He was very remarkable man and loved by many. Sympathy to Catherine and Jill and Jean and their families from Dean,Brain,Jessica and family and Carol,Chris and family -the Rogers families .
Catherine Zingg
May 16, 2020
My condolences to Jeannie, Jill, Catherine and the family. I have many fond memories of riding with Jeannie and her father at Leitchcroft in the seventies. On Sundays there were wonderful lunches at the house where Jack would share great stories. He always took the time to speak with everyone and inquire after their families. - Catherine (Chaplin) Zingg
Capt. Kassbaum
May 16, 2020
John Daniel Leitch was foremost a philanthropist and gentleman with exemplary qualities that we all aspire to have in our own lives. His are tough shoes to fill; in the Marine World or otherwise and he broke the mould. We will all miss him dearly. Goodbye and Sail On John
Suzanne watson
May 16, 2020
Think my dad knew mr. Leitch. Dad was mr. Alan Charles watson who was with masterfeeds dog foods Toronto elevators (Tommy Thompson was dads boss), and dad retired with country style donuts his boss and friend mr. A.t. Lowe. Dad told me that he and mother went on great lake boats up the st. Lawrence river to Quebec city and back. Dad said they got to see iron ore being loaded and unloaded off the boats etc. This was courtesy of Jack leitch dad told me, and I guessing this mr. Jack leitch was dads and Tommy thompsons friend. Our dad died Tuesday March 18th, 2003, in a port Perry ont.nursing home. Dad sure spoke fondly of jack leitch, and if mom (she died Sept 4, 2015) and dad were still alive I know they'd be sad to know mr. Leitch has passed away. We had some hand made wooden toy boats at our cottage as children. They were great lakes steamships and I think they may have been given to us by mr. Jack leitch. It's not every day one sees toygreatlakes steamship wooden boats.. I don't know what happened to them. It was such a while ago. Much sincere condolences to mr. Jack switches family, and to mrs. Jack leitch. From mr. And mrs. Al and jean Watson's daughter,suzanne watson.
Terry
May 15, 2020
Mr. Leitch was a kind man, I worked for Upper Lakes Shipping for over 25 years, introduced myself, I said Thank you for all I have as I owe it all to you, He said, thank you, because All I have I owe it all to you. That really stuck with me. He would take the the time when he visited his ships to talk to all his crew, no matter what your position.
Pat Loduca
May 15, 2020
My family and I extend our sincere condolences to Catherine, Jill, Jeannie, and the entire Leitch family for their loss. May Jack always be remembered as an industry trailblazer, fearless entrepreneur, and generous soul and may he rest in peace!
Scott Misener
May 15, 2020
I'm one of the few souls still alive that knew jack as a competitor and indeed he was a formidable competitor. I recall our occasional one on one lunches at his favorite club when he would play his cards pressed to his chest and I would leave with nothing more than a free lunch.
In his own subtle way, he would make it clear that as competitors we could never be friends and I respected that. He was a giant of our industry and an outstanding Canadian. He has left us with an outstanding legacy. May he rest in peace.
My sincere condolences to his family.
Harold Chataway
May 15, 2020
Jack had a unique combination of grace, wit, intensity, charm and engagement. He was a great entrepreneur. I appreciated Jacks friendship and advice over the years. He made me a better person. Jack will be sorely missed by his family and all of those who knew him. - Harold Chataway
Donald Roussel
May 15, 2020
Condolences to all the family members. It was a great honnor to work for Mr Leitch from 1982 to 1987 and continue to served Upper Lakes as Client for close to 3 decades as public servants. A big lost for The Canadian Maritime Sector. Donald Roussel past Marine Engineer and Transport Canada Marine Safety Director General.
david fladgate
May 15, 2020
Fraser McKee
May 15, 2020
I knew Jack Leitch through naval connections. We were both RCNVR's, and in writing my books about the Navy & in particular the Merchant Navy, for his father's firm lost 5 ships to U-boats. Jack was a 'go-to' person for details about them. Universally helpful in providing anything I asked about, ships or horses, another joint interest. A pleasure to chat with, always prepared to take the time, unassuming. My condolences to the family for someone who will be very much missed
Robert Matthews
May 15, 2020
Sad to hear this news. it was a privilege to work for such a kind, considerate and intelligent man. Rest in peace Mr. Leitch
Ernest Rovet
May 15, 2020
My condolences to Catherine and the Leitch family at the passing of this remarkable man. For over forty-five years Jack was both a client and a friend. His work and business while always time consuming, still left room in his life for his colleagues and friends. His kindness, gentle humour and loyalty will always be remarked on when his life and accomplishments are discussed in the coming months. . Jack never forgot anyone who he had worked with over the years, visiting them when they were sick, encouraging them always. I am thankful to have known him and will cherish him memory as long as I live.
Ernest Rovet
May 15, 2020
My condolences to Catherine and the Leitch family at the passing of this remarkable man. For over forty-five years Jack was both a client and a friend. His work and business while always time consuming, still left room in his life for his colleagues and friends. His kindness, gentle humour and loyalty will always be remarked on when his life and accomplishments are discussed in the coming months. . Jack never forgot anyone who he had worked with over the years, visiting them when they were sick, encouraging them always. I am thankful to have known him and will cherish him memory as long as I live.
Ernest Rovet
Doug Sherman
May 15, 2020
Our condolences to Catherine, Jill and Jeannie. Jack will be greatly missed.
Bob Matthews
May 15, 2020
Sad to hear this news, it was a privilege to work for such a kind, thoughtful and intelligent man. The industry and indeed society as a whole are poorer for his passing. Rest in peace Mr. Leitch.
May 15, 2020
MAY16,2020
On behalf of all past and present members of the Canadian Maritime Union, Local 4401, we wish to express our sincere condolences to the Leitch family. Mr.Leitch was well respected throughout the marine industry but was adored by the seafarers who worked for him. He will always be remembered as a gentleman with the uncommon ability to make all of us feel part of the team regardless of status. God speed on your final voyage.
Jim Mac Dougall
Canadian Maritime Union
Judy Jones
May 15, 2020
My condolences to Jeanie and the family! Jack was a neighbour back in the 60's & 70's, a very generous one at that, and his love of horses was an understatement! RIP.
Appleby Association
May 15, 2020
On behalf of the Appleby College Alumni community we wish to express our deepest sympathies in learning of his passing. Mr. John Leitch 39 moved from beyond a school leader to a visionary community leader who, throughout life, continually demonstrated a drive for entrepreneurialism and compassion. He will be greatly missed by many. With sincere condolences, the Appleby College Alumni Association.
Madonna (Hiscock)
May 15, 2020
I had often heard my dad speak of this man. He spoke highly of him. He worked on the Gordon C Leitch for 23 years as a wheels man. He often said he was a true gentleman. RIP Mr. Leitch. Sincere condolences.
John Bawden
May 15, 2020
Jack was wonderful.
I always enjoyed the Boxing Day gatherings at Leitchcroft.
He will be missed.
May 15, 2020
My condolences to Catherine and the Leitch family at the passing of this remarkable man. For over forty-five years Jack was both a client and a friend. His work and business while always time consuming, still left room in his life for his colleagues and friends. His kindness, gentle humour and loyalty will always be remarked on when his life and accomplishments are discussed in the coming months. Jack never forgot anyone who he had worked with over the years, visiting them when they were sick, encouraging them always. I am thankful to have known him and will cherish him memory as long as I live.
Ernest Rovet
Margaret-Ann Cooke
May 15, 2020
My sincere condolences to the family. My father Lorne Cooke worked about 35 years fir Upper Lakes Shipping and greatly respected Mr. Leitch
Garett Ellsworth
May 15, 2020
Condolences to the Leitch family he was great man to work for. As a large number of my family worked for him including myself. The shipping industry has lost a great founding member of all the advancements made on the lakes and ocean trade.
He will be missed by all
Aldert van Nieuwkoop
May 15, 2020
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr Leitch a few times in my capacity as Director Market Development at the St Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation. He was a true Gentleman, always mindful, genuine, a good soul. May he Rest In Peace.
Calvin Poole
May 15, 2020
He was a great man, a gentleman, and a great employer, I enjoyed working for him.
May 15, 2020
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE LEITCH FAMILY.I WORKED FOR HIS COMPANY FOR 28 YEARS . IT WAS THE BEST COMPANY I WORK FOR IN MY LIFETIME. HE WAS A VERY FINE GENTLEMAN AND PERSON TO KNOW AS A EMPLOYER. R.I.P JOHN D. LEITCH.
May 15, 2020
Mr Leitch was the best Canadian and person I had a privilege to know
The company he owned and managed for decades was recognized as the most inclusive and people friendly on the Great Lakes
Thank you for letting us be part of your life We will miss you and cherish the memories you created
My condolences to Catherine and family
R.I.P. Boss you will be missed
Ewa Chudecki
May 15, 2020
Mr Leitch was the best Canadian and person I had a privilege to know
The company he owned and managed for decades was recognized as the most inclusive and people friendly on the Great Lakes
Thank you for letting us be part of your life and thank you for the memories you created
You will be missed
My condolences to Catherine and his family
R.I.P. Boss
Ewa Chudecki
May 15, 2020
Mr.Leitch was the best Canadian and human being I had a privilege to know.The Company he owned and managed for decades was recognized as the most inclusive and people friendly on the Great Lakes,
After Upper Lakes was sold employees had nothing but the best to say out his Company and him.
Thank you Mr.Leitch for letting us be part of your life.
We will miss you and cherish the memories you created.
My condolences to Catherine and his family
Ewa Chudecki
David
May 15, 2020
He was a Great Canadian.An employer who was interested in his employees & theyre Families.My condolences to the Family & to his Upper Lakes Family.R.I.P.& God Bless you Mr.Leitch.
Brian Klauck
May 14, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Linda Peckford
May 14, 2020
Deepest sympathy to the family. MR. Leitch was indeed a very kind and well respected man in the industry. My husband, Capt. Austin Peckford, thought very highly of him. He worked with Upper Lakes for 35 years.
Shirley Whitehouse
May 14, 2020
My sincere condolences to Catherine and the rest of the Leitch family. Mr. Leitch was a wonderful man to work for as I did for almost 30 years. He was admired and respected by his employees, both ashore and on the ships, and by many others in the marine industry.
Shirley Whitehouse
May 14, 2020
My sincere condolences to Catherine and the rest of the Leitch family. Mr. Leitch was a wonderful man to work for as I did for almost 30 years.He was greatly admired and respected by his employees, both ashore and on the ships, and by so many others in the marine industry.
David Lyrette
May 14, 2020
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Love Mr.&Mrs.David n Denise Lyrette
Janis Aldred
May 14, 2020
It was a pleasure working with the Upper Lakes Group family. Mr. Leitch was such a wonderful man, always kind, smiling, and was genuinely interested in your response when he asked how you were doing. My condolences to the family.
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