Who Was Jack Fraser?

A Saskatoon native born September 19th, 1930, Jack graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor of commerce degree.  Co-founding the company Empire Freightways, Jakc managed to scale the business before selling it to the Canadian National Railway. Jack, a businessman at heart, dove into his next endeavour, purchasing a petroleum distribution company before moving to Winnipeg in 1961. Upon arriving in his newfound home, yet another business was formed by Jack, this time being a menswear store. 

​

A man of many interests and a person for the community, Jack was involved in many organizations and activities throughout his life. From being the president of Norcom homes, the director of the Bank of Montreal, Air Canada, Investors Group, Bank of Canada, Coca-Cola, and Shell Canada, to receiving the Peter D. Curry Community Service Award form the University of Manitoba, there wasn't much that could escape the midas-like touch of Jack. 

​

To honour his involvement in the community and economy, Jack received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and was shortly after awarded the Diamond medal in 2012. Receiving an honorary doctorate form the University of Winnipeg, education was a foundation in his life.

​

Jack was married to Valerie ("Val") Georgina Ryder and had a son and daughter. Passing away in Winnipeg on July 24th, 2021, Jack's legacy continues on, passed down to his grandchildren.