BUCHANAN, John Mead
Jack was born in Trail, B.C. on July 31, 1916, to James and Helen (Riddle) Buchanan and passed away peacefully
on January 29, 2011 in the Cowichan District Hospital with his wife at his bedside. He was predeceased
by his wife Elsie (Guthrie), his brother Jim Buchanan, and sister Molly Salter.
He attended St. Michael's School in Victoria BC and then The University of Washington , where he graduated
with a degree in metallurgical engineering in 1941. He was the oldest living member of the fraternity Zeta Psi.
Jack then commenced his career with Cominco in Trail before enlisting with The Royal Canadian Engineers
in September of 1941. In 1942 he married Elsie Guthrie in Saskatoon and following the war they returned to Trail
where Jack became superintendent of the zinc plant. He went on to become manager of metal production
and finally assistant manager of Trail operations. From 1964 to 1967 Jack worked in India where he was responsible
for establishing a zinc smelter for Cominco Binani Zinc Company.
Jack was active in community affairs in Trail, he was a member of the Trail Library Board and was president of the
Rotary Club and The United Way and also served as Civil Defense Coordinator for Trail and District and was
a member of the Tadanac Municipal Council. Jack was a natural athlete and was an active participant in curling
and golf, he was also an avid gardener. Jack enjoyed many summers at Kootenay Lake with his family.
In 1979 he married Luella (McLellan) and he retired from Cominco in 1981 after forty years of service. In 1990
they moved to Duncan, where they became members of the Cowichan Golf Club , and enjoyed their friends
old and new in Duncan.
Jack is survived by his wife Luella, his son John (Patti) and daughter Janis Bower (John), stepdaughter Joyce Wilson,
grandchildren John Jr.(Asia) and Patrick Buchanan; Jamie (Hollie), Jeff (Tjammie), and Richie Overgaard;
Jason (Aiden) and Lisa Bower; as well as four great grandchildren Kyler & Nolan; Jack & Madeleine Overgaard;
also nieces and nephews.
Jack will always be remembered for his sense of humour and happy outlook on life.
He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and a true gentleman. The memories will live on.
No service by request. Jack asked that any donations made in his memory be sent to the United Way
or the charity of your choice.
FIRST MEMORIAL FUNERAL SERVICES
Duncan, B.C.
(250) 748-2134
Condolences may be sent to:
www.mem.com