Obituary of John Pritchard Howe

John Pritchard (Jack) Howe 1926-2014 Jack died at home on January 4th in his 88th year. Beloved husband for 65 years of Mary Lou (nee Doyle). Jack was born on a farm near Chatham, Ontario to the late William Eldon Howe and Hazel Mae Pritchard. Cherished father of John Patrick (Lee), Mary Lynne (Barry Onslow), Michael Edward (Adrienne) and Jane Marie (Greg MacMaster); beloved Grandpa to Justin, Brendan (Jessica Young) and Julia Howe, Colin and Katie MacMaster, and Great Grandpa to Lucas Howe. He is survived by his sister Barbara Tuck and sister in law Sister Mary Jane (Marie Doyle) and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Bill and stepmother Sadie. Jack lived his early years on the farm. He served in the Royal Canadian Regiment during WWII and met Mary Lou at this time. They were married in 1948 and began their family in the house that Jack built in Chatham. Jack and Mary Lou moved their family to London in 1959 where Jack attended London Teachers' College and the University of Western Ontario. He joined the staff of Catholic Central High School in 1960 and remained there for his entire career. "Mr. Howe" taught Math and Geography, was a guidance counsellor, coach, Vice Principal and Principal. He will be forever known to his former students by his nickname "Flat Top" from the brush cut he proudly sported since his army days. In retirement Jack gardened, played duplicate bridge, and became a Life Master. He and Mary Lou travelled extensively and spent many winters in Destin, Florida. In his last years, Jack made it a daily habit to visit over coffee with many friends and acquaintances at local restaurants. The family wishes to thank Julijana Bennett and the compassionate care givers from CCAC and Medical Priorities who brought comfort to Jack, making it possible for him to remain at home. Friends may visit at Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street on Monday from 2-4 & 7-9 o'clock. A Funeral Mass to celebrate Jack's life will be held on Tuesday morning January 7, 2014 at 10 o'clock at St. John the Divine Roman Catholic Church, 390 Baseline Road West. Interment St. Peter's Cemetery. Condolences and memories of Jack can be shared at www.donohuefuneralhome.ca