Obituary of Jack Edward Brockest

Jack Edward Brockest of Onanole passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at the age of 84 years. He was born in Winnipeg on September 3, 1927. While receiving his education there, he was very involved with the Winnipeg Canoe Club and the Winnipeg Ski Club. Jack married Shirley Anne Justice on December 27, 1951 and over the next few years, they resided in both North Vancouver and Winnipeg, before settling in Brandon in 1957. While here, he was employed at National Cash Register, Wilton Motors, Canadian Motors and the Provincial Exhibition Board. Jack was also the first general manager of the Keystone Centre, general manager and owner of the Brandon Wheat Kings, and after the sale of the club he persued a successful career in real estate. Jack and Shirley enjoyed their summers at Clear Lake, and after retirement travelling to Florida in the winter. Jack was an active member of the Brandon Kinsmen Club, the K-40 Club and served on Brandon City Council from 1970 to 75. He was an accomplished public speaker and a dedicated family man. In 2003, Jack retired to Onanole and spent the past six years working as a first tee starter at the Clear Lake Golf Course. Jack was predeceased by his parents; Clarke and Dorothy Brockest; his beloved wife, Shirley in 1989; and his brother Roy in 2003. He is survived by his daughter, Cathie (Nelson/Roger) Strong, Regina; son Bob (Doris) Brockest, Courtenay, BC; four grandchildren; Lindsay Strong, Regina; Sean (Chanel) Brockest, Warman, SK; Brett (Amanda) Strong, Regina; Kelly (Chris) Poppy, Parksville, BC; five great-grandchildren; Laney Brockest, Hanna Poppy, Lucas Brockest, Jack Strong, Kalvin Poppy; three special godchildren; Julie (Greg) Phillips, Dan Cumming, Sara Cumming; two sisters-in-law, Ruth Brockest, Toronto, Margaret Pridham, Carson City, Nevada, as well as several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Jack's life was held at Central United Church on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 with Rev. Shannon McCarthy officiating. Eulogists were Jack and Bev Cumming. The family would appreciate memorial donations to be directed to the Onanole Recreation Centre, Box 137, Onanole, MB, R0J 1N0. Messages of condolence may be placed at www.brockiedonovan.com.