John Alexander (Jack) Robertson, 87, of Amaranth, MB, passed away peacefully at home on February 4th surrounded by his family.
Jack was born on December 7th, 1938 in Winnipeg. He spent his early years on the family farm at Lynches Point before moving to Harcus in 1953. The Robertson family continued ranching beef cattle and raising mink and fox for fur during that time.
Horses were always a big part of Jack’s life, used for both work and enjoyment. In the 1950s, he was among the first to breed Paint horses and showed them successfully in Canada and the U. S. He trained and competed with western pleasure horses before shifting to training thoroughbreds in the early 70s. For 43 years, he worked as an Owner/Trainer at Assiniboia Downs, winning over 600 races and achieving titles such as Trainer of the Year and Horse of the Year. Jack earned great respect as a horseman, and people often sought out his advice.
Through his involvement with horses, Jack met Gloria (Kirton), the love of his life. They married in 1964 and purchased their farm at Harcus where they began their herd of Angus cattle. During summer months, Jack would be at the track with the horses while Gloria took care of everything back home including livestock. In fall, he also worked as a cattle order buyer. In 1969, he acquired his first Charolais bull and added Registered Charolais females in 1973; today Bar-J Charolais continues as a family-run operation. Jack had a real talent for breeding quality livestock.
In the 1990s, Jack returned to one of his childhood hobbies-breeding purebred exhibition bantam ducks-and quickly became successful, winning Grand Champion titles at shows throughout Canada and the U. S. Above all else, Jack treasured his family and friends around him. He loved sharing stories and reminiscing about times gone by. An honest man who stood firmly by his values, he wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. His most lasting impact will be seen through the young people he mentored who are now on paths to success-both those related to him and those who became like family.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents Alec Robertson and Marie Robertson (Anderson), along with brother James and sister Donna.
He is survived by Gloria (Kirton), his wife of 61 years; their son Clint (Lynn); three grandsons Justin (Hayley), Max & Ty (Desiree); great-grandchildren James and Jax; sisters Ruby Mac Donald and Peggy Wilson (Stan); many nieces and nephews; along with his Border Collie “Dolly.” As per his wishes, Jack will be cremated.
We will miss you Grandpa Jack!
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