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Monday July 13, 2009

REESOR, John (Jack) Franklin LLB, Q.C.
It is with sadness that the family of Jack Reesor announces his passing on July 4th, 2009. In his 92nd year, we are grateful that he is free of the confines of advanced years and ill health. He is re-united with his wife and the love of his life Mary (nee Marshall), and his son John of whom he was so proud.

His children, Peter Reesor (Deborah) and Gwynneth Simpson (David) and grandchildren, Jordanne and Blair Reesor and Ben Simpson, celebrate Jack's life with memories that make us all smile. He was a gentle, nurturing man of quiet generosity, deep faith, compassion and humour. He modeled for his children and grandchildren a loving commitment to marriage and parenting.

Jack is also survived by his dearly loved sister Martha Mumford (nee Reesor) who shared his long history and love of life, and by his six nieces, who loved their 'Uncle Jack.' He is predeceased by his dear brother Robert (Bob) in 1954.

Born and raised in Lindsay, Ontario, Jack's character was shaped by the small town values of dedication to family and friends and by the church teachings of the inherent goodness of others.

A graduate of the University of Toronto and Osgoode Hall Law School, he was an R.C.A.F. pilot during the Second World War, married in 1944 and then embarked on a fifty year law practice in Hamilton, Ontario.

His volunteer commitments included serving as President of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, The Rotary Club of Hamilton (a Paul Harris Fellow), The Hamilton Advisory Board of The Salvation Army (recipient of the Order of Distinguished Auxiliary Service), and elder of Central Presbyterian Church.

By his own admission, he was undistinguished on the golf course (The Hamilton Golf and Country Club) and curling rink (The Thistle Club). Jack always valued the fellowship more than the score.

We are so grateful to the staff at Highgate Retirement Residence and Queen's Garden Residence for the compassionate and respectful care that Jack received.

A private family service will take place. A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Central Presbyterian Church, 150 Charlton Ave. West, Hamilton, on Thursday, August 6th, 2009 at 2 pm with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Rotary Club of Hamilton, The Salvation Army, Central Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice.

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