John "Jack" Leslie Lusk

Born in Nelson, BC, Jack spent most of his younger years in Grand Forks and worked as a lineman and for the Canadian Pacific Railway with his father. He received his teaching degree from UBC and taught hundreds of high school students Math, Science, Woodwork, and PE in Winnipeg and Victoria. Jack enjoyed 30 years on his picturesque Cowichan Valley farm, building a house, workshop and barn, and raising chickens, pigs, goats, dogs and cats with his beloved wife, Rebecca, before recently relocating to Brentwood Bay.

Jack’s love of sports was a constant theme throughout his life. He excelled in softball, basketball, rugby, and later in life took up ice hockey and curling. He had a passion for fishing, especially with his grandchildren, and loved to teach the “gutting” process, but would not actually indulge in eating the fish himself! Jack had a special talent for dancing and tried his utmost to teach Rebecca some of his moves, with limited success.

Jack particularly loved helping young people reach their full potential through sports. He coached all ages through the years and had a particular fondness for his high school basketball teams. He also coached the Women’s Senior A basketball team and travelled to Czechoslovakia. His teams also won three Canadian championships.

Jack was an artist in many mediums yet would never consider himself so. He created many intricate action-packed carvings that told a detailed story. Those who frequented the farm know about his specially carved toilet paper holders, and some lucky ones may have even been gifted one of their own. He especially loved working on the lathe and made many unique lamps, vases and chalices.

Jack leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Rebecca; former wife, Doreen, and their children Brian (Susan) and Stewart; stepchildren Kannon Russell, Casey Russell, Tracey (Mathias) Hulten, Lindsay (Steve) Wist and Shelby (Martin) Schenk; many loving grandchildren; and siblings Barry (Gail) and Jo Ann (Mel). He was predeceased by his parents, John and Winnifred, and daughter Larne.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation or Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation.