John Stuart (Jack) Kingscote

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Stuart (Jack) Kingscote, who peacefully left us at the age of 89 in Whitehorse, Yukon. Born on September 27, 1935, in Victoria, British Columbia, Jack led a rich and adventurous life filled with love, family, and community.

Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife, Myrna Kingscote. In 1960, Jack met his future wife and life long friend Myrna as she swam up to his sailboat to flirt with him. They were married in 1963 until she passed in November 2023.  He is survived by his three sons: Andrew Kingscote (Mandy Holowachuck), Sean Kingscote (Karri Kingscote) and Cam Kingscote (Kim Scott). He also leaves behind a legacy in his grandchildren: Max, Mitchell, Ariana, Hannah, Quinn, Rylee, and great-grandson, Blake.

Jack’s career was as dynamic as his spirit. He began his working life as a heavy-duty mechanic for International Harvester in 1956 before transitioning to teaching Industrial Arts at Eric Hamber High School in Vancouver. Always one for new experiences, Jack took on a variety of roles, including selling soap and real estate, but his heart led him back to teaching Industrial Arts when he moved to Mayo, Yukon in 1976. His decision to move was fueled by a sense of adventure, and Jack would remain dedicated to teaching until his retirement in 1996 from F.H. Collins High School in Whitehorse, Yukon.

In his retirement years, Jack continued his love of storytelling and adventure by working seasonally for Holland America as a tour guide, welcoming cruise ship visitors to the Yukon. This also gave him and Myrna the chance to enjoy numerous cruises together in the off-season, exploring the Caribbean and Pacific regions.

Jack’s life was marked by a serendipitous connection to aviation. His and Myrna’s warm hospitality toward a group of Air Force pilots during the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous Festival blossomed into a longstanding tradition. Over the years, their home became famous for its Rendezvous dinners, attended by pilots from Canada and the U.S. The Canadian Snowbirds Air Demonstration Team became frequent guests, and Jack’s bond with aviation deepened. His work promoting air displays during the Rendezvous festival, alongside Myrna’s festival volunteering, made them both synonymous with the event. They were crowned Mr. and Mrs. Yukon in recognition of their contributions and also received the Commissioner’s Award. Their connection with the Canadian Air Demonstration Team was further cemented when they were named honorary Snowbirds by the team. A rare distinction.

Jack’s adventurous spirit also manifested in his love of sailing. This began during his youth in Vancouver, where he lived across from the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club, often sailing with his lifelong friends, John and Glen.

Jack will be remembered for his infectious energy, warm hospitality, and his many contributions to both the Yukon and the broader aviation community. His stories, love of adventure, and deep connection to family and friends leave behind a lasting legacy.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a local charity of your choice in Jack’s memory. 

**Rest in peace, Jack. Your legacy will sail on.**