John Archibald “Jack” Fergusson

John Archibald “Jack” Fergusson was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, church elder, telecommunications executive, Freemason, and proud supporter of Winnipeg’s Scottish community.

Jack was born on Remembrance Day, November 11, 1928, in the family home on Aikins Street in Winnipeg’s North End. He was raised with his older brother, Robert, and younger sister, Mae, by their parents, John and Margaret Fergusson.

From a young age, Jack demonstrated a strong work ethic. His early jobs included delivering newspapers, bread, and pastries throughout the neighbourhood. During high school, he worked at the College Theatre at Main Street and Church Avenue, serving at various times as an usher, doorman, and assistant manager.

After graduating from St. John’s High School, Jack joined the Manitoba Telephone System. He remained with the organization for 40 years, eventually becoming Manager of Personnel and Administration before retiring in 1988.

Faith was an important part of Jack’s life. He attended St. John’s United Church with his family and became an elder while still a young man.

One memorable Saturday evening, while travelling to Winnipeg Beach on the Moonlight Train, Jack was introduced to Patricia McGeown. Their friendship quickly became a lasting courtship, and they married at Kildonan United Church on May 3, 1952.

Jack and Pat raised five children—Jack, James, Gary, Sandra, and Patricia—and created a family home filled with activity, humour, and unforgettable memories. Jack was a supportive father who attended hockey games, Scouting events, Job’s Daughters activities, Highland dance competitions, piping performances, and countless other family occasions.

When daughters Patti and Sandi became involved in Highland dancing and piping, Jack and Pat developed a deep connection with Winnipeg’s Scottish community. They travelled throughout Canada and the United States for competitions and became founding volunteers of Folklorama’s Pavilion of Scotland.

Jack was also deeply committed to Freemasonry. He joined the Winnipeg Chapter of the Order of DeMolay in 1946 and was initiated into King Edward Lodge No. 93 in 1950. Over the decades, he held numerous leadership positions, culminating in his installation as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba in 1989.

His Masonic service also included leadership within Scottish Rite Freemasonry and the Royal Order of Scotland. He served as Provincial Grand Master of the Royal Order of Scotland from 1998 to 2003 and later as Provincial Grand Secretary.

Recognized for his knowledge of Masonic procedure and tradition, Jack authored Masonic Civility, Masonic Reflexions, and Masonic Reminiscence. His dedication earned him numerous honours, including the 33rd Degree, the Walter C. McDonald Medal for Meritorious Service, and service recognition spanning 70 years in Freemasonry.

Despite his many commitments, family remained Jack’s greatest priority. He delighted in his 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandson. He was especially fond of his granddaughters, affectionately known as “Grandpa’s Angels,” although he good-naturedly denied showing any favouritism.

Jack was also known for his love of chocolate and his homemade fudge, without which no family gathering seemed complete.