“The leader of the pack, and now he’s gone”
Jack William Witiluk, a dear son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully with his loving family around him on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 in the ICU at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre at the age of 76. Jack was born on March 13, 1949 in Port Arthur to Rita and William Witiluk.
In 1973, he married his soulmate from Atikokan, Barbara (Dickson). His spirit will always be remembered by his hardworking sons Jeff (Karen Edwards) and Ryan (Christine Biniaris); he is also survived by the joys of his life-his grandchildren Jacey, Kaylee, Jacob, and Cole; loving sister Donna Deknatel (John) and brother Bill; wonderful sisters-in-law Donna Mac Neil (Pat) and Janet Margarit (Terry); along with many 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 some called him was an entrepreneur from an early age. He delivered newspapers as a kid and worked at Tony and Benny’s garage. At just 19 years old he opened Jake’s Speed Shop on Cumberland Street while also working full-time as a tester at Abitibi Provincial Mill for ten years. In 1976 he started Automart on Simpson Street and built J& J Sports in 1978. Later he opened Balmoral Park Acura in 1988 followed by Thunder Bay Mitsubishi in 2004. Jake had a passion for cars-especially fast ones-and loved to race them home with trophies.
He cherished time spent at his camp on West Floral Beach with family and close friends. Scottsdale, Arizona held a special place in his heart along with all his American friends and families.
His passing leaves a significant gap that will be felt deeply by his family, extended relatives and everyone who had the chance to know him. Over more than 55 years of business in Thunder Bay he met countless wonderful people who became lifelong customers and friends.
As we grieve for him we are thankful for the beautiful life he led and the memories we have of him. According to his wishes he will be cremated. The Funeral Mass to celebrate Jack’s life will take place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 10:30 a. m. at St. Andrew’s R. C. Church located at 294 Red River Road. Friends can visit an hour before the Funeral Mass starts in the church. For those unable to attend in person there will be a livestream available on Sargent & Son’s Facebook page. A reception will follow immediately after at the Italian Hall with internment scheduled for later.
From the bottom of Jack’s family’s hearts we want to express our gratitude to the paramedics as well as ER staff and ICU staff for their incredible care during this time showing patience, compassion, and kindness toward Jack and his family-alongside Drs. Biman, Lai Melton, and Shack who have cared for Jack over many years.
He lived with honesty, dedication, and love that asked nothing back from others. The impact of Jack’s life is evident not only through our cherished memories but also through how we’ve grown because of him. Even though he’s no longer here what he shared so freely stays with us forever.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Jack to St. Andrew’s Dew Drop Inn, the George Jeffery Children Centre or Northern Hearts Foundation. Online condolences may be expressed at www. sargentandson. com.
