It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a husband, father, and grandpa on February 26, 2024, at the Hamilton General Hospital in his 81st year. Loving husband and best friend of Andrea (nee Sebastian) for 55 grateful years. Cherished father to Carla Davis (Joe), Mark Antolich (Kim), and Christopher Antolich. Loving Grandpa to Madison and Mackenzie Antolich and Ryan Davis. Special nephew to Mary Antolich. Dear brother-in-law of Fred Sebastian (Diane) and the late Art Sebastian (Marie). He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Will be lovingly remembered by Paul Walychuk (Sharon). Predeceased by his mother Pauline Zecevic and sister-in-law Fran Sebastian.

Jack worked for the HWCDSB for over 33 years. He was principal of St. James the Apostle School (which he opened), St. Francis, St. Catherine of Sienna and St. Michael Schools. During his career, Jack served as Science Resource Teacher, and taught all grade levels. The impact he had on his students academic and personal lives was far reaching and influential. He was a D’Youville University student teacher supervisor and a 3-term Chairman of the Principal Association.

Jack was always a family man who cherished his family. As a father, he was an inspiration to his children, living by example and guiding them with wisdom and through his actions, he taught them his values of family and shaped their lives with his profound influence.

Jack’s legacy lives on through his three grandchildren. He adored them with endless hugs and kisses. He enjoyed wrestling matches in the pool, taking them on nature walks, going to the beach or attending their soccer, baseball or hockey games.

Throughout his life, Jack formed sincere and genuine connections and long-lasting friendships. Jack’s friends were always welcomed into his home, where they shared many meals, memories, card games and an abundance of laughter.

Jack liked to cook and loved to eat. He enjoyed making his Croatian cabbage rolls and Kasha soup, always sharing with family and friends. He was always happy creating everlasting memories of love, family and togetherness. Nothing brought him greater delight than gathering around a full table of food with family and friends.

Jack enjoyed playing cards with his buddies, getting together at his house for poker. He played euchre weekly at St. Francis but most of all trying to beat his grandchildren at Pass the Ace.

Jack had a passion for the Toronto Blue Jays. His desire to travel brought joy, laughter, and a heartfelt appreciation of the world as he explored it with Andrea and family.

Those who knew and loved Jack will remember his character, a blend of integrity, determination, kindness and tenacity. He will be remembered for his passions, his generous spirit, unwavering kindness and his profound love for his family.

Thank you to the many “angels” who held our hand, wiped a tear, said a prayer or drove us to doctor appointments along the way.

The family would like to thank all the doctors and medical teams for their guidance over his long medical years. A special thank you to the doctors & team at the Acute Care Unit at the Hamilton General Hospital for their compassion and care in his last days.

Visitation will be held at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 947 Rymal Road East, on Monday, March 4th from 2-4 & 6-9pm. A Funeral Mass will be offered at Our Lady of Assumption Parish, on Tuesday, March 5th at 11:30am. Cremation to follow. A private family burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to Our Lady of Assumption Parish, St. Patrick’s De Mazenod Door Outreach or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Online condolences can be made to www.baygardens.ca

“Dad, you overcame many obstacles in your life. We are proud of you and we love you.”