Stephen JACKSON

JACKSON, Stephen
August 20, 1962 - June 12, 2012
Stephen Jackson passed away on June 12, 2012, in the palliative care unit at Vancouver General Hospital. Predeceased by his mother Nonie and survived by father Robert, sisters Elizabeth and Anne, and nieces Leigh, Lindsay, Molly, Kate and Heather. Stephen grew up in a loving and caring family in Ottawa, and with a stable and nourishing childhood and proper education, he was well- equipped to conform to a standard life-path and career common to many of his contemporaries. But he found better and more interesting things to do. After attending Emerson College in Boston, MA for four years, Stephen headed back to Ottawa to work in the radio news industry. After a few years of covering local goings-on in the Nation's Capital, Stephen headed by rail to Vancouver in the late 1980s (perhaps a precursor for his fondness for travel and exploration), where he established permanent residency. Stephen continued working in radio news for a variety of stations in Vancouver for a few years, but was eventually attracted to what was then the Dubrulle Culinary Institute, where his studies prepared him well for his many years of working in various positions at some of Vancouver's finest restaurants. His interest in cooking remained until the end of his life, helping out for the past few years at his good friend's family-run establishment in the Dundrave neighbourhood of West Vancouver. Owners, staff and regular patrons of Verdicchio's Deli enjoyed his fine cooking and service manner, and his daily presence is sorely missed. Stephen also developed a strong interest in photography, and became a student at Langara College's Continuing Studies Photography program.
Over the years he became an active volunteer through the local chapter of the Canadian Association of Photographers and Illustrators in Communications, and became a Teaching Assistant, and eventually an Instructor at the Lanagara program, right up until his final months. Such were his attitudes, values and philosophy that a scholarship is being established in his name - the first time this is being set up for the photography program. Radio, cooking and photography were just some of Stephen's passions. He enjoyed travelling in many forms, whether it be wilderness explorations with his family to places such as the Nahanni, Grand Canyon or Haidi Gwaii, trips with his father to national and international medical conventions, a solo trip to Europe, or road trips through North America with friends, Stephen was always up for checking out the world. He was also passionate about human endeavours in the cultural and sporting fields. He was an avid collector of audio, video and literary materials concerning The Beatles, for example, and amassed a remarkable collection and knowledge that reflected his pure and full enjoyment of the music and the band's cultural significance. In the sporting world, his depth of knowledge of all things related to professional men's ice hockey was astounding, and his love of "Canada's National Sport" knew no bounds. He was also an enthusiastic fan of baseball and football, with many opinions and observations to share. American history was another area of pursuit. Stephen enjoyed reading about such historical events, visiting sites of significance, and collected many audio and video documentaries that were always good for repeated listening and viewing. One of his all-time favourites, combining his love of baseball and history, was Ken Burns' "Baseball" documentary series. Stephen is also missed by his immediate neighbours. A few years ago he oversaw the building envelope repair project at his condominium development, which as any condo owner in the Lower Mainland can attest, can present many challenges. As usual, he rose to the occasion, and his "get-it-done" attitude has resulted in restored and comfortable homes for many.
Such were some of Stephen's many interests, pursuits and achievements. At his request there will be no funeral or service. The family would like to invite all of his friends and colleagues to attend a celebration of his remarkable and unique life, to be held on Sunday, Aug. 5, 2012, from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m., in the Spirit Room at the West Vancouver Community Centre, 2121 Marine Dr. (22nd and Marine), West Vancouver. Donations in Stephen's memory can be made to the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (regarding the Nahanni), see http://cpaws.org/help/, Langara College, see http://www.langara.bc.ca/about-langara/giving-to-langara/making-a- donation.html, or the BC Cancer Society, see http://bccancerfoundation.com.
Thanks are extended to staff at Vancouver General Hospital, who cared for Stephen in his final days. Thanks are also extended to those at the BC Cancer Agency, who attended to Stephen's needs the past four years, and who enabled him to continue living a productive life during this time. In particular, much gratitude and thanks to Dr. Sophie Sun, in whom Stephen had the utmost trust and confidence for his care and well-being. Stephen Jackson is missed by many, but the good memories are strong and will be ever-lasting. From his family and many friends and colleagues, thanks for everything, Stephen.