Jack (John) Steffler

Jack was the loving husband of Joyce, who died in early 2021, and cherished father of Kim, Carol, Jackie and Mark. He was also the proud grandfather of Jacob, Logan, Sean and Matthew and dear brother of Francis, Carmel, Theresa, Rose, Bernice, Tom and Ann.

He was the youngest of eight children who grew up on a farm in Puslinch Township in what is now Guelph. They were the fifth generation of the George Adam family branch that came from Alsace, Germany and settled in Canada in 1831.

Jack was a captivating storyteller, recalling fun and difficult times on the farm and was known throughout life for his sense of humour and quick laugh. He played baseball in his youth and was in the Junior Farmers 4H Club.

Later in life, he enjoyed hosting large family picnics with the woman he called "my beautiful wife" on their tree farm just south of Guelph. They sold the land and Jack took early retirement from a 31-year career at Bell Canada in the mid-1980s. He then worked for the new owners to help maintain the property and produce maple syrup for several more years.

Jack revelled in winter sports, including snowmobiling and cross-country skiing on the tree farm, welcoming friends and relatives to join in. He even went downhill skiing in Hockley Valley without any experience or instruction.

He was known as a competitive player of euchre, cribbage and crokinole. He was also an honorary life member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 6024, in Maryhill, Ont.

A special thanks goes to all the caregivers who provided Jack with comfort and support in his final years.

Jack is resting at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph. Visitation is from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026. A funeral service will be held in the Hart Chapel on Saturday, May 16 at 10 a.m., followed by burial and a reception at the Hart Chapel. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to your charity of choice.