Obituary of John "Jack" Edward Campbell
Jack's family is sad to inform of his passing, at home, just shy of 86 years of age.
Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife, Madeline Campbell (née Phillips), of Rusagonis, where there were many wonderful meals, corn boils and Christmas celebrations with the Phillips family (James and Linda, Eugene and Jeanne, and Verna). Jack was predeceased by his brother Malcolm and Mac's wife Carol Ann, and sister Allie Lou, with whom he enjoyed many laughs and much love, especially at 'the camp' on the Nashwaak. Jack is survived by his children: Krista, John (Tina) and Tiffany, who brought him much joy. He adored his grandchildren (Roman, Maddie, Curtis, Chelsey and Josh), who gave Jack names he cherished: Budgie and Grampy. He was also fortunate to have wonderful nieces and nephews, Teri Ann Gibson, Travis Phillips, Cassandra Phillips, Christian Steele and Kaden Phillips.
Jack was a proud son of New Brunswick since his birth in 1939, growing up in Woodstock and moving to Fredericton in Grade 11, where he finished high school as an outstanding track and field, and basketball athlete. Jack continued his education at UNB, with an undergraduate degree in science and history, a teaching degree, and later a master's degree in education.
Teaching was a passion for Jack. He taught, coached and mentored throughout his life. As a teacher, Jack taught in several local schools, with many fulfilling years at Albert Street Junior High. Throughout his career, he taught many subjects, ranging from science to phys-ed. Jack was a dedicated coach, offering his skills and time to a variety of school activities, with a focus on athletics. Jack was an avid volleyball aficionado, coaching and refereeing over many years, across Canada and internationally, and making his much-deserved way into the NB Volleyball Hall of Fame. He had enormous respect for his teaching, coaching and refereeing colleagues -- cherished friends.
Jack was a competitive (if not always successful) golfer with a dedicated group of golf buddies over the years. There may still be a club flung into a tree on the Mactaquac or Fredericton golf courses after one of Jack's more challenging rounds...
Above all, Jack was a family man, wanting to spend time with his cherished wife, Madeline, especially at music festivals, on a patio, or on any beach, in low lawn chairs settled into the edge of the water, enjoying the sun and surf, anywhere in the world, especially NB, PEI and Florida. Jack and Madeline were avid travellers -- loving their trips to Europe, China, the US and Central America.
We imagine Mom and Dad sitting on a beach now, enjoying the warm water, and planning their next trip. Together again.
Visitation will be held at McAdam's Funeral Home on Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. A family service to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated, to help fund research and treatment for a disease that touched both Madeline and Jack's lives.