Obituary of John "Jack" Peter Groat

John “Jack” Peter Groat passed away suddenly at his home in Stettler on October 11th, 2013; 2 weeks shy of his 79th birthday. Jack was born in Castor on October 27th, 1934, the 6th of 7 children born to Peter and Elizabeth Groat. He took his early schooling at Daisy Bank School south of Halkirk. His family moved to Endiang from their farm when they purchased the Endiang Trading Store. This is where he finished his schooling. After high school Jack moved to Stettler to work for his brother-in-law Jack Ritchie. The majority of Jack’s life was spent working as a parts salesman. He finished his career in 1991 working at Corner Appliance. Jack enjoyed playing crib (of which he had 2 perfect hands), fishing, camping, baseball and time spent with his many friends. One of the highlights of his life was travelling to St. Catherines, Ontario to watch his daughters play National Jr. Ladies fastball. Jack spent many hours watching his grandkids and great grandkids play hockey and other sports. The boys always looked forward to receiving a toonie from Grandpa after their games. Jack married his high school sweetheart Gladys on October 24th, 1954. They enjoyed almost 59 years of happiness together. Jack is survived by his loving wife Gladys and his three daughters: Beverley (Duane), Colleen (Chuck), and Aileen (Svend), grandchildren: Brad (Kate), Danee (Brent), Dustin, Danny (Erin), Nicole, Dylan, Heather (Dustin), Kristen (Adam), and Hannah (Curtis), as well as six great grandchildren, sister Verna, brother Gordon (Sharon) and many extended family and friends. Jack was predeceased by his parents Elizabeth and Peter, sisters Mary, Isabelle, Helen and brother Bob. Memorial donations in memory of Jack gratefully accepted to Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation, Alberta Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice.