ADY, Jack
Posted: November 27th, 2019
ADY
The family of Jack W. Ady are saddened to announce his passing on Nov. 26, 2019, at the age of 87 years. The son of George Ady and Catherine Dunn, Jack was the youngest of 8 children. He was raised on the farm in the Taylorville and Whiskey Gap areas. He married his sweetheart, Darlene Pilling, in 1954, had 4 sons and 1 daughter and lived in Edmonton, Calgary, Dayton Valley, Winnipeg, Hill Spring and Cardston. He worked in oil field service industry until 1975 when he returned to his rural roots and bought a mixed farm and ranch near Hillspring. In 1986 he was elected MLA for the Cardston Constituency, and was reelected twice more. In 1992 he was appointed Minister of Advanced Education and Career Development in the Klein government, a position he held until his retirement. He was appointed Chairman of the Chinook Health Region in 2000 and later to the Alberta Health Super-board where he served until his retirement from public life. As a tribute to Jack for his many years of public service, the Cancer Treatment Centre at the Lethbridge Regional Hospital bears his name. Jack was a lifelong faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, serving in many capacities, including working for many years in the Cardston Temple. He spent his life in humble devotion to his Saviour. Jack was a man of integrity and vision. He worked tirelessly in whatever job or assignment he was given. He set for us an example of commitment to family, church and community. Jack leaves to mourn Darlene, his wife of 65 years, sons Don (Cindy), Doug (Karen), John (Yvonne), Rob (Carry) and daughter Lori (Eric Brooks); 26 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren. The funeral service will be held Saturday, November 30, 2019 at 11:00 am at the Cardston Stake Centre, 338 5a Ave E, Cardston, AB. Friends may meet the family from 10-10:45 prior to the service.
Jack was a kind, honest, humble and generous man. His legacy in public life and his commitment to the community will not be forgotten. Kathryn and I were proud to know and work with Jack. We – like many – will miss him dearly. Our prayers and thoughts with Darlene and the Ady family.
Bob and Kathryn Dawson, Victoria BC
Dear Darlene and family,
How blessed you were to have Jack in your life for so many years. Please take comfort in knowing you will be together again. Roy has been gone almost 20 years and I am so grateful for the Plan of Salvation.
We have many good memories of you and your family when we were in the same ward all those years ago.
With sincere sympathy,
Merlye and family
Ady family,
What can I say about the man who saved my life as a young boy which allowed me to grow up and have a family of my own which I love and Cherish. I will always have a place in my heart for Jack and Darlene Ady.
Kent Wynder and Family
Darlene and family. I am sorry to hear of the passing of a real gentleman and outstanding husband and family man…Jack. Jack made a very positive contribution to the people of Alberta and his community. His service in the Alberta Legislature was exemplary and I have only fond memories of a modest man who really cared about public service and all that it entailed. We listened when Jack talked. Deepest condolences are offered at this time as are our prayers. May he rest in peace and the family find deep comfort in knowing that he was an outstanding man.
Ken Kowalski, Mexico
Darlene, I just heard of Jacks passing and was sorry that we never found out sooner, I guess that would not have made a difference. Erich and I always enjoyed time spent in conversation with Jack and you, and often wondered how both of you were keeping. Good memories are the best blessings and we are blessed to have known Jack. We hope you stay well and your memories and family take you many years on the road home. Donna Bier
I miss Jack, and I miss spending time with his family on their farm over 40 years ago. He’s a good man.