It is with great sadness that Hockey NL announces the passing of the late John (Jack) Reardigan.  Jack passed peacefully away at Pleasantview Towers on January 22, 2020 at the age of 95 years. Leaving to mourn his loving children, son Jack (Helen), daughters Kathee (Keith) and Heather. Five Grandchildren and one Great Grandson as well as nieces and nephews.

Jack a.k.a. Mr. Regatta, an Accountant by day, had a lengthy and successful career in sports in St. John’s from a very young age. His hockey days spanned over 50 years between being St. Bon’s finest to step on the ice to one of the greatest officials to wear the stripes.” In a special 1985 poll of Newfoundland and Labrador sports media members, he was selected as the second best provincial on-ice official ever”. He served as President Referees Association, Assistant Provincial Referee-in-Chief, Vice President and Junior Chairman for the Newfoundland Amateur Hockey Association and as a long-time member of the NAHA Appeals Committee.  He is also a Member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Jack had several accolades during his life. An excellent oarsman, he rowed in the Regatta for 14 years and spent 48 years as a member of the Royal St. John’s Regatta Committee. He was a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall Of Fame, the Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador Hall Of Fame and the Royal St. John’s Regatta Hall Of Fame, including two terms as President.

Early in his life, Jack took part in a 10-mile walk, coming in first place in 1946 and 1947. As well, he placed first in 1939 and 2nd in 1940 for Cross Country Skiing. In 1992 Jack was awarded the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in recognition of his significant contribution to compatriots, community and to Canada.

Well into his 80’s, Jack continued to skate five days a week and enjoyed walking up Signal Hill every day in the summer.

The Family of Jack Reardigan would like to thank those that cared for him and loved him at Hillcrest Estates and Pleasantview Towers.

Jack lived a long and full life surrounded by those who loved and respected him. He first dipped his oar in Quidi Vida Lake as a member of the St. Bon’s crew in 1944. In a 2006 feature in The Telegram Jack said each Regatta Day “he felt like a kid. It’s like Christmas, only better. It’s the best day of the year”.

Cremation has already taken place. The family will be receiving friends at Caul’s Funeral Home, LeMarchant Road from 2-4 and 7-9 on Thursday, January 30. Memorial Service to take place at Caul’s Chapel on Friday, January 31, 2020 with a time to be announced. Inurnment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.