Obituary of Jacobus Mare

It is with great sorrow that the family announces the passing of Jake on January 27, 2012. He will be mourned and greatly missed by his wife of 50 years, Janita, son Marius (Patti), daughters Christel and Lois (Jeff) and four grandchildren Myles, Hailey, Jasmine and Jack who were the joy of his old age. Jake is also survived by brother, Jan, and sister Kato both of S.A. Born on the Highveld of South Africa, the second child of a teacher family, Jake spent his formative years on the maize farm of his paternal grandfather after whom he was named. Oupa had a profound influence on Jake and Ouma provided the love for a lonely child whose father was away at war in the Sahara and Egypt. After high school, Jake went to the University of Stellenbosch where he met his future wife, Janita. They married in 1961 and the next year they became parents of Marius. Ever the adventurers, he and his small family first moved to Canada in 1963 and returned permanently to Kenora in 1967 where he became a teacher at Lakewood Secondary School. Subsequently, Christel and Lois were born. Jake was an alumnus of Stellenbosch University, Lakehead University, Ontario College of Education, University of Western Ontario and Florida State University where he obtained a Master of Science in Education. During his career in Kenora, he was appointed Dean of Environmental Studies for Lake of the Woods District School Board, Vice Principal of Beaver Brae Secondary School and Director of Curriculum Development. He retired in 1992. As an avid young sportsman, Jake excelled in rugby and boxing in S.A and later played soccer, squash and golf recreationally in Canada. Jake served on the executive of the Presbyterian Church and was an active member of the Kinsmen. Jake fully embraced his new country and was a proud Canadian. He enjoyed the outdoors and, in particular, spending time with family and friends at the cottage on Treaty Island. His workshop was always a busy place as he enjoyed carpentry, having built a houseboat, sailboat and numerous household projects. Many happy retirement winters were also spent enjoying the sun and surf in Mazatlan, Mexico. The family plans a memorial service to be held this summer in Kenora, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Ontario Humane Society would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Shawn Jackson Funeral Home 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570) Ascension And if I go, While you’re still here... Know that I live on, vibrating to a different measure - behind a thin veil you cannot see through. You will not see me, So you must have faith. I wait for the time when we can soar together again, - both aware of each other. Until then, live your life to its fullest. And when you need me, Just whisper my name in your heart, … I will be there. Colleen Hitchcock Service Information