Obituary of JACK ALEXANDER CUMMINGS

It is with great sadness that the family of Jack Alexander Cummings announces his passing on December 1st, 2005 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Woodstock, Ontario, on January 29, 1918 to Francis and Bertha (Watt) Cummings, Jack grew up in Chatham, ON. As a young child, Jack discovered the saxophone and clarinet, which gave him a life-long love of music. With an enjoyment of many types of music, Jack joined several groups and orchestras over the years. Jack was especially proud of his long involvement with St. Mary's Band, becoming the first Honorary Life Member after 50 years with the band. He also started his own easy listening group, “Nice 'n Easy”, enjoying many years on the local circuit. A life-long member of local 815 Musicians' Association, Jack's music gave him and many others great joy throughout his life. In 1940 he enlisted in the Elgin Regiment, serving in World War II and saw service overseas during WWII. In his 16 years with the armed services, Jack also served in the Korean War with the Royal Canadian Electrical & Mechanical Engineers from 1951 to 1953. He spoke proudly of his 50-year membership with the Royal Canadian Legion. Pre-deceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Margaret (Peg) Cummings (nee Brooks), he is deeply mourned by his daughter, Jacqueline Thomson (Brendan), son, Robert Cummings (Wendy) and sister-in-law, Dorothy Brooks. A very special Grampie to grandchildren: Sheila Bergeron (David) of London, ON. Karen Reynolds (Jason) of Saint John, Heather Skopinski (Victor) of Calgary, and Jonathan Cummings (Ginny) of Calgary. Treasured great-Grampie to, Justin Lyon-Bergeron and Brooke Bergeron of London, ON, Natalie, Andrew and Matthew Reynolds of Saint John. Jack is also survived by one brother, Floyd Cummings of ON. and several nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by one brother, Beryl Cummings and one sister, Vivian Copeland. Jack will be missed by his many friends and the staff of Chateau Champlain in Millidgeville. Resting at Brenan's Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424), with visiting on Saturday and Sunday from 2 ? 4 and 7 ? 9 PM. A Royal Canadian Legion Service will be held on Sunday evening at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Pius X Church, 316 Somerset Street, Saint John, on Monday December 5, 2005 at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place in Ward's Creek Cemetery at a later date. Remembrances may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.