Dyson, Jack
Dyson John (Jack)
March 23, 1926 – January 6, 2026John “Jack” Dyson passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, just shy of his 100th birthday.
Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Thelma, as well as his son Timothy and granddaughter Jenny. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Betty; his daughter Joan; his son Dave (Karen); his grandchildren Chris, Tim, Mike, Katie (Jake), Emily (Artem), and Anna (Alex); and his great-grandchildren Nikita, James, Liam, and Evelyn.
Born in Leigh, Lancashire, England, Jack came to Canada at the age of three and grew up in Guelph, Ontario. As a young man, he was a gifted hockey player and loved fly fishing and hunting. His hockey ambitions were put on hold when he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy—lying about his age to do so—and served aboard the HMSC St. Boniface, a minesweeper in the North Atlantic during the Second World War. He remained deeply proud of his naval service and his long-standing connection to the Canadian Legion.
After the war, Jack trained as a Tool & Die Maker. He worked on the Avro Arrow until the program’s cancellation, a project he spoke about often and passionately. Although his formal education ended at Grade 10, Jack was exceptionally intelligent and quick-witted, with a strong head for business.
Always well dressed and ahead of the style curve, Jack opened Jack Dyson Men’s Wear in downtown Oakville. He built a successful business before selling it to Art Lee, after which he joined Irwin Toy Canada as a sales representative, eventually retiring as the company’s Executive Vice President.
Jack was an avid curler and served as President of the Oakville Curling Club in 1974. A member of Burlington Golf & Country Club, he took great pride in shooting his age at 78. He also enjoyed cards, spending many happy hours playing Bridge and Canasta. A talented self-taught artist, Jack’s oil paintings remain treasured pieces in his children’s homes.
A natural storyteller, Jack loved an audience and was never happier than when he was “holding court” at family gatherings. He had strong opinions and wasn’t shy about sharing them. He was well known for writing letters to voice his opinions on political and social issues.
Jack had simple tastes in food and found great joy in a plate that included smoked salmon, Brie cheese, green onions with salt, followed by chocolate and a cold beer.
Jack Dyson lived life his own way—boldly and never short on confidence. He leaves behind a legacy of humour, creativity, and countless stories that will no doubt improve with every retelling.
The family is very grateful for the care Jack received at Sunnybrook Veterans Centre during the past 3 years, and if desired, donations to the Sunnybrook Foundation – Veterans Program would be greatly appreciated. https://foundation.sunnybrook.ca/fundraising-priorities/veterans-program/
A private family gathering to celebrate Jack’s life will be held in March.
