Good-bye Jack - we miss you

Today, I attended the memorial service for a good friend, Jack Thompson. Jack was a wonderful travelling companion for me during the first few years I was leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party. He was an incredible raconteur, and would relate story after story as we drove together to the winter fair in Brandon. In 2004, I was lucky to be in Morden when Jack was inducted into the Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame for his efforts, over many years, as a builder. I remember well, one of the people who spoke then about Jack. He said "there may be as fine a gentleman here in this hall tonight, but there is no finer." Jack was a remarkable person.

Kindness and courage were characteristic of Jack. He served in the Second World War with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles for five years. He fought in the D-day invasion and in the Normandy liberation and was wounded in action during the battle of Carpiquet Airport. He received citations for initiative and bravery.

In every contact I ever had with Jack he remained positive with a good mood and a sense of humour. Jack - I will miss you.

My condolences go out to Jack's family and friends.