Jack Conrad Wigen
June 14, 1928~ November 19, 2011
Jack Conrad Wigen, a lifelong resident of Wynndel, BC passed away November 19, 2011 at the Creston Valley Hospital.
The eldest of four children, Jack was born June 14, 1928 in the Nelson hospital. He began his education at the Wynndel School, graduating from Creston Valley High School with the class of '47. After completing his formal education at the University of Idaho in 1951, Jack returned to Wynndel to work with his Father, Monrad, towards building the sawmill into a thriving family business. Jack was very proud of the contribution Wynndel Box & Lumber made to the economy of the valley. Reaping the fertile land on the Wynndel flats was equally as inspiring to him and sharing the bounty with others brought him great pleasure and satisfaction. He was well known by many as a true philanthropist.
In high school Jack excelled in sports such as track and basketball. He played several instruments and enjoyed reminiscing about his days in the dance band. Another favourite memory of Jack's was participating in the Salmo-Creston Trek July, 1952 to promote building the highway.
Some of his many interests included challenging the stockmarkets, piloting aircraft, skiing, horses, guns, art and poetry. But his main interest was people. He was an engaging conversationalist... meeting new people wherever he went, while lifelong friends always remained predominant in his life.
Jack served on the board of directors of Wynndel Irrigation District, Wynndel Co-op Fruit Growers and Wynndel Recreation Society. He was a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce and Lions International and currently a member of C.V. Rotary Club and President of the Cranbrook Gyro Club.
Predeceased by his parents Monrad and Rose Wigen, Jack will be remembered by his companion Sheila McDonald of Creston; daughter Susan (Eskil) Jorgensen of Creston; son Michael (Mary) of Wynndel; five grandchildren Shawna, Larissa, Colt, Kena and Connor; two great-grandchildren Meredith and Xavier; two brothers Bob (Retia) Wigen of Wynndel, Dick (Vera) Wigen of Castlegar; one sister Donna (Ed) Chorney of Kelowna, as well as several nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Funeral Service was held on Sunday, November 27, 2011 at the Creston Room of the Creston and District Community Centre.
Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC, 4-1551 Sutherland Ave., Kelowna, BC V1Y 9M9; to the Parkinson's Society of BC, Suite 600 -890 West Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6C1J9 or to a charity of your choice.