With great sadness, the family shares the news of Kenneth John (Jack) Woodruff’s passing. Jack was born to the late Norman and Eva Woodruff on November 26, 1939, and he left us at Huntsville Hospital in the early hours of Saturday, April 25, 2026. He was 86 years old.
Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Venetia on May 30, 2018, just a month shy of their 55th wedding anniversary.
Jack is the forever loved Dad of Mary Woodruff (Josh), Ken Woodruff (who has passed), and Doug Woodruff (Kim).
He is also the loving Poppa to Kate Wright (Eric), Kayley Woodruff (Nick), and Lisa Woodruff.
Jack spent his entire life in Huntsville and truly embodied what it meant to be a Huntsville boy. He cherished his time on his grandparents’ farm and being part of a large family with nine siblings. From a young age, he developed a passion for fishing, hunting, and enjoying nature.
His career began with the Ministry of Natural Resources in 1957 when he was just 18. In those early days, his supervisor took him home one day and introduced him to Venetia, who would later become his lifelong partner. Jack married Venetia on June 29, 1963. They raised three wonderful children: Doug, Ken, and Mary. His family meant everything to him.
Jack took immense pride in his work with the Ministry. He formed friendships with many incredible people during his career and relished every moment he spent there. After dedicating 36 years to service, Jack chose to retire so that he could travel with Venetia. They made countless memories together on trips across Canada’s coasts as well as an unforgettable four-week journey through Alaska. He fondly reminisced about this adventure even in his final days.
Together with close friends over sixty years ago, Jack helped establish what became known as the Exotic Riverside Hunt Camp along the banks of Big East River. This special place welcomed families and friends from near and far to enjoy its beauty while creating lasting memories together-exploring Big Sky Country or simply sharing good times over drinks. Many generations have visited this camp for these reasons alone. It was always Jack’s wish for this tradition to endure for years ahead while fostering friendships along the way.
Jack’s love for nature was evident throughout his life; whether hunting or fishing or riding snowmobiles and ATVs-he shared these joys with his children, grandchildren, and numerous friends.
He had an extraordinary talent for storytelling or singing little songs; if you were lucky enough you might catch him dancing too! His ability to recite verses would surprise many who knew him well-it seemed spontaneous yet captivating each time! With a bright smile that could light up any room coupled with infectious laughter filling it up-Jack embraced life wholeheartedly & made sure everyone around felt it too!
A bit of a legend himself now gone but never forgotten-his stories will live on through all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him! Nothing ever held him back from pursuing what brought joy!
This isn’t goodbye forever…. Beagle 3 out.
Visitation is scheduled for Friday May 8th ,2026 from1-3 p. m. and6-8 p. m. at Billingsley Funeral Home ,430 Ravenscliffe Road, Huntsville , Ontario.
The Funeral Service will take place at All Saints’ Anglican Church ,30 High Street, Huntsville , Ontario on Saturday May9 th at11a. m.
A reception will follow upstairs at Huntsville Legion after the funeral service ends.
If you’d like , donations can be made in memory of Jack towards Hospice Huntsville, Huntsville Hospital Foundation , or Royal Canadian Legion – Huntsville Branch No.232
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