John J. “Jack” Nearing Death, Obituary – It is with heartfelt sorrow that we share the passing of **John J. “Jack” Nearing**, the former superintendent after whom **J. J. Nearing Catholic Elementary School** was named. Jack passed away peacefully on **October 2nd, 2024**, in hospice care in **Calgary**, at the age of 92, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. His life, full of dedication, love, and service, has left a lasting legacy in the **Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools** community.
A Life Dedicated to Education and Faith
Jack’s long and illustrious career as a superintendent in the Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape for countless students, teachers, and staff. His commitment to Catholic education was not only evident in his professional achievements but also in the deep care he exhibited toward every individual he encountered.
Jack’s leadership, grounded in faith and compassion, ensured that Catholic values were at the heart of the learning experience. His vision was to create schools that would foster both academic excellence and spiritual growth, and he succeeded in doing just that.
A Legacy Immortalized: J. J. Nearing Catholic Elementary School
One of the most profound honors Jack received in his lifetime was having **J. J. Nearing Catholic Elementary School** named after him. This tribute was a testament to the enormous impact he had on the community and the lives he touched throughout his career. To know that a school bore his name filled Jack with pride, and it will serve as a lasting reminder of the incredible contributions he made to the students and staff of the district.
The school continues to uphold the values that Jack held dear, nurturing a generation of learners who are encouraged to live lives of faith, compassion, and service—principles that Jack embodied throughout his life.
A Full Life, Surrounded by Love
Jack lived a full and wonderful life, one filled with love, laughter, and a deep sense of fulfillment. His final weeks were spent surrounded by his loving family—his children and grandchildren—who cherished the time they had with him in his final days. His peaceful passing, while a sorrowful loss for his family and community, is a reminder of the rich, meaningful life he led.
A Community Mourns
The news of Jack’s passing has deeply affected the **J. J. Nearing** school community, where his memory is cherished not only by staff but also by the students and families who have benefited from the education that is part of his lasting legacy.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our school’s namesake,” expressed a statement from the school’s administration. “Jack’s presence in our hearts and in the values we uphold at **J. J. Nearing Catholic Elementary School** will continue to guide us. We extend our deepest condolences to the Nearing family and ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Rest in Peace, Jack
Though Jack Nearing has departed this world, his legacy endures. His dedication to education, his faith, and his love for his community have left an indelible mark on those who knew him. May he rest in peace, comforted by the knowledge that he was deeply loved and that his contributions to Catholic education will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time of grief. May the strength of the Nearing family be lifted by the love and support of those who knew and loved Jack.
