It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of John (Jack) Thomas Lay.
Jack Lay was predeceased by his parents, Matthew and Annie Lay (Dunnigan), his siblings Marjorie Prosser, Mary Henderson, Gladys Violette, Frank Lay, Bill Lay and his grandchildren Connie and James Lay.
Jack is survived by his wife of 71 years Elaine Lay, his five children, Sharon Flegg (Richard), Bob Lay (Judy), Dan Lay (Susan), Allan Lay (Dawn), Mother Cynthia Lay, 12 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.
Jack was born in Alameda, Saskatchewan on February 18, 1929 and moved to Abbotsford with his family when he was six years old. Jack met the love of his life Elaine Perry in Abbotsford and they were married on March 4th, 1949. They were blessed to celebrate 71 years together.
In 1955 Jack began his career of Provincial Game Warden. Jack served throughout the Province, predominantly in the Lower Mainland. Jack's main duties were removing dangerous wildlife for the protection of the public. Jack enjoyed sharing his knowledge of the outdoors with others.
He annually instructed at B.C.I.T. and spoke in numerous locations throughout Western North America. His teaching endeavours prompted him to write a book ("All in a Day's Work") revealing a portion of his work experiences.
Jack Lay retired at the age of 49 but continued his passion for the outdoors through hunting, trapping and fishing. Jack continued to share his wealth of knowledge of the outdoors by initiating and joining many outdoor recreation clubs and associations.
Jack will be remembered for his love and dedication to this family and friends, his stoic nature, work ethic, humour and storytelling.
Jack Lay's funeral was held at St. Ann's Catholic Church on December 22, 2020. He was laid to rest at the Hazelwood Cemetery in a beautiful shaded area, where the birds sing all day. (Due to Covid restrictions a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.)
Online condolences may be sent to: www.hendersonsabbotsfordfunerals.com
Henderson's Fraser Valley Funeral Home