NAGAI, Jack

NAGAI

JACK NAGAI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, August 7th, 2019, at the age of 92 years.

Jack was born in Sea Island (Richmond) BC to Matsunosuke “Joe” and Chiyo Nagai. He was the second oldest of seven children.

While attending high school, the war broke out and the family evacuated to southern Alberta to work in the sugar beet fields. The local farming families supported the Nagai family with knowledge, equipment and helping hands when needed and eventually Jack and his brother Bill started Nagai Bros. Farms.

Jack went on to marry Masako “May” Kase and raised their four children until her death in 1977.

Jack re-married to Rie Tanaka and with whose love and support they nurtured and raised their family. He was especially fond of spending time with his five grandchildren.

During Jack’s family farming days, he became involved in volunteering in his leisure time. He dedicated time to the church and donating to the local food banks, soup kitchens, the Lethbridge Senior Citizen’s Organization as well as to many local families and friends. In 1980 Jack joined the St. John Ambulance Brigade Division as a volunteer member. He has been a proud member ever since not only serving as a first-aid member but as well as a retired sergeant in ranking.

Over the years, Jack has been awarded several accomplishments along the way. Many of these have been recognized provincially for his dedication to volunteerism in his community and surrounding areas. Some of these awards include, “Long Service Award” received from Lt. Governor Gordon Towers, “Serving Officer Award” and “Excellence in Volunteerism” both received from Lt. Governor Norman Kwong, “Alberta Centennial Medal” received from St. John Ambulance, “Serving Brother Award” received from Governor General Jean Sauve, “Officer-Order of St. John” received from Governor General Adrian Clarkson and “Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame” received from The Lethbridge Sports Association.

Whether it was his sense of humour, infectious smile or his quiet, never give up determination, Jack was always an inspiration to those around him and will be dearly missed by the many people who have come to know and love him.

Thank you to the nurses, doctors and staff at the Chinook Regional Hospital and St. Michael’s Health Centre, Palliative Care Unit for their care and support of Jack and his family.

A Private Cremation Service was held in Lethbridge.

A Celebration of Life (49th day Memorial) will take place on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Izumi officiating. An announcement will follow with the location.

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com