A Life well-lived: Remembering Jack Beaton
John “Jack” Leask Beaton, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 27th, 2022, at the age of 95. His remarkable 69-year marriage to Doris was a testament to their enduring love and commitment.
Jack’s life was a tapestry woven with diverse experiences.Born and raised on a farm in Brock Township, he embraced a spirit of adventure, venturing to a lumber camp in Eastern Ontario before embarking on a career path as varied as his interests. From the assembly lines of General Motors in Oshawa to the family-owned Beaton’s Dairy, from menswear retail to managing the Whitby Curling Club, Jack’s adaptability and work ethic shone through. in his later years,he found fulfillment as a sought-after painter and decorator,bringing color and vibrancy to the homes of his community.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jack was a passionate sportsman. A skilled baseball player in his youth, he later found joy in curling, sharing his love of the sport by coaching young athletes in hockey and baseball. His dedication to fitness and community involvement was evident even into his eighties, when he could still be found lacing up his skates.
jack’s deep connection to his rural roots instilled in him a profound respect for animals and farmland.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Humane Society of Durham Region or The Greenbelt Foundation, honoring his lifelong commitment to these causes.
A Party of Life was held on June 18th,2022,at the DeStefano Funeral home in Oshawa,followed by interment at Bethel Cemetery in Greenbank,Ontario. Jack’s memory will forever be cherished by his daughters Julie (Richard) and Wallace (lisa), his granddaughters Fiona and Miranda, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit.
From Baseball Diamond to Curling Rink: remembering Jack Beaton
Welcome back, sports fans, to another insightful episode of “Gridiron to Green.” Today, we have a special guest joining us, a fellow sports enthusiast and longtime coach, the legendary Tom “Tommy Two-Gloves” Henderson. Welcome to the show, Tom!
Tom: Thanks for having me, it’s great to be here.
Today’s topic revolves around a remarkable individual named Jack Beaton, a man who lived a life as colorful and diverse as the paints he used in his later years. As a skilled baseball player in his youth who transitioned into curling and coaching both hockey and baseball, Jack embodied the spirit of a true athlete — adaptable, dedicated, and ever-passionate.Tom, having spent your life on various playing fields and coaching young athletes yourself, what resonates most with you in Jack’s story?
Tom: Well, you hit the nail on the head there.The adaptability Jack displayed is truly inspiring. You know, sometimes young athletes get so focused on one sport, they forget the joy of trying new things. Seeing someone like Jack, transitioning from baseball to curling, coaching different sports — that shows a love for the game in its purest form, not just a singular pursuit of winning.
Absolutely! Jack’s dedication shines through in his coaching career, too, continuing to inspire even into his eighties. What message do you think his dedication sends to aspiring athletes, particularly those facing age-related challenges?
Tom: It’s a powerful message, isn’t it? In today’s world, where pressure to specialize and peak at a young age is so prevalent, Jack’s story serves as a reminder that passion for sports knows no age limit.It’s about embracing the journey, the camaraderie, and the simple joy of movement. His willingness to lace up his skates well into his eighties is an inspiration to us all.
Now, transitioning from the grit of the baseball diamond to the finesse of the curling rink is no small feat. What do you believe are the core values that allow athletes to thrive in such diverse sports?
Tom: I think it boils down to a few key things: hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and perhaps most importantly, teamwork. These elements are crucial in both baseball and curling. Baseball demands swift reflexes,the ability to anticipate plays,and seamless teamwork between fielders and batters. Curling, while seemingly less physically demanding, requires similar skills in reading the ice, strategizing throws, and working as a cohesive unit to outmaneuver the opponent.
I couldn’t agree more, Tom! Jack’s life was a testament to these core values, both on and off the sporting field. His commitment to community involvement and his respect for nature, as evidenced by his support for the Humane Society and Greenbelt Foundation, shows that his athletic spirit translated into a well-rounded and compassionate individual.What are your thoughts on the importance of athletes being role models beyond their chosen sport?
Tom: It’s paramount, really. Athletes have a platform, a voice that resonates with peopel. When they use that platform to advocate for causes they believe in,to promote values of respect,kindness,and community involvement,it sends a powerful message,especially to younger generations.
Indeed, Jack Beaton served as a shining example of combining athletic passion with a strong moral compass. His legacy reminds us that sportsmanship extends far beyond the final whistle or score, leaving an indelible mark on the world around us.
Readers, we encourage you to share your thoughts on this remarkable life story. What lessons resonate most with you from Jack Beaton’s journey? How do you see the values of sportsmanship translated into everyday life? Let’s keep this conversation going!
Tom: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing this truly inspiring individual.
