“The leader of the pack, and now he’s gone”
Jack William Witiluk, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and dear friend passed peacefully with his loving devoted family by his side on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 in the ICU at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre at the age of 76. Jack was born March 13, 1949 in Port Arthur to Rita and William Witiluk.
In 1973, he married the love of his life and soulmate from Atikokan, Barbara (Dickson). His memory will live on in the hearts of his hard working and dedicated sons, Jeff (Karen Edwards), Ryan (Christine Biniaris); Jack is also survived by the joys and loves of his life, his grandchildren Jacey, Kaylee, Jacob, and Cole; loving sister Donna Deknatel (John) and brother Bill; amazing sisters-in-law Donna MacNeil (Pat) and Janet Margarit (Terry); and numerous very special nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents William & Rita; his brother-in-law Gordie Dickson and mother-in-law Ruth Gresko,
Jack or Jake as he was known to some, was a true entrepreneur from the start. He delivered newspapers as a kid and pumped gas at Tony and Benny’s garage. Later he started Jake’s Speed Shop at the age of 19 on Cumberland Street while working full time as a tester at Abitibi Provincial Mill for ten years. He started Automart on Simpson Street in 1976 and in 1978 he built J&J Sports. From there he opened Balmoral Park Acura in 1988 and then Thunder Bay Mitsubishi in 2004. Jake was always passionate about cars, especially fast cars. He loved to race cars and always came home with trophy’s.
He loved spending time at his camp on West Floral beach with his family and close friends. A special place will always be held in his heart for Scottsdale, Arizona and all his American friends and families.
His passing will leave a void that will be deeply felt by his family, extended family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. During his 55 plus years of business in Thunder Bay he met a lot of great people, many becoming life-long customers and friends.
While we mourn his loss, we are very grateful for the beautiful life he lived and the memories he left behind. As per his wishes, he will be cremated. The Funeral Mass to honour Jack’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Andrew’s R.C. Church, 294 Red River Road. Visitation for friends will be held in the church for 1 hour prior to the Funeral Mass. Those unable to attend the Funeral Mass in person may take part via livestream on the Sargent & Son Facebook page. Reception to follow immediately at the Italian Hall. Internment will take place at a later date.
We wish to thank from the deepest part of Jack’s families hearts, the paramedics, ER staff, and ICU staff for their extreme care, patience, compassion, and kindness towards Jack and his family. As well as, Dr. Biman, Dr. Lai, Dr. Melton, and Dr. Shack who cared for Jack for many years.
He lived with integrity, deep kindness, and a love that asked for nothing in return. The impact of his life will be felt not only in the memories we hold, but in the people we have become because of him. Though he is gone, what he gave so freely remains with us always.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jack’s memory to the St. Andrew’s Dew Drop Inn, George Jeffery Children Centre or the Northern Hearts Foundation. On-line condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
