John (Jack) R. Vivian of Camden, Ohio passed away peacefully at his home with family on February 17, 2021 after an 18 year battle with Parkinson disease.
“If what you did yesterday looks big to you today, then you haven’t done very much today.”
Jack was a son, brother, husband, beloved father-in-law, proud grandpa of 18+ grandchildren, favourite uncle, long time friend, high school and college football player, college wrestler and hockey player, founder and coach for the first hockey team and program at Bowling Green State University. Jack was the proud owner of four Stanley Cup Rings as western scout for the NHL New York Islanders, he was head coach and manager of the WHA Cleveland Crusaders, builder of ice rinks, and was known as Mr. Ice in hockey circles. Jack was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Adrian College, MI and to the Hall of Fame at Bowling Green State University, Ohio. He was a University Professor, mentor to many, conference speaker and consultant in arena building, programming and management.
He was born to the late Robert and Doris Vivian on May 14, 1941 in Southern Ontario and moved to Dryden as a youngster and called Dryden home. He leaves his wife Elaine, sons John (Bethany). Joshua (Angie), daughter Amy (Joe), stepdaughter Elizabeth. A brother Roy (Barbara) and sister Bernice Ferguson, sister-in-law Suzanne. A daughter Julie preceded him in death as well as a grandchild, brother-in-law, niece and his brother, Ron.
A private family service was held at Bales Funeral Home in Camden, Ohio. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
