Jack Robertson

John Alexander (Jack) Robertson, 87, of Amaranth, MB. died peacefully at home on February 4th with his family.

Jack was born December 7th , 1938 in Winnipeg. He spent the early years of his life on the family farm at Lynches Point before moving to Harcus in 1953 where the Robertson family continued to ranch beef cattle and raised mink and fox for fur.

Horses were always a part of Jack’s life, both for farm work and for pleasure. He was one of the first breeders of Paint horses in the 1950’s and showed them successfully both in Canada and the U.S.. Jack trained and competed with western pleasure horses before transitioning to training thoroughbreds’ in the early 70’s. He continued as an Owner/Trainer at Assiniboia Downs for 43 years winning more than 600 races and earning such achievements as Trainer of the year and Horse of the year. He was highly respected as a horseman and his advice was always sought after.

It was through the horse world that he met the love of his life Gloria (Kirton) and they married in 1964 and bought their farm at Harcus. They started their herd of Angus cattle at that time. Jack would spend the summer months at the track with the horses while Gloria held down the fort at home and cared for the livestock. In the fall Jack was a cattle order buyer as well. In 1969 Jack bought his first Charolais bull and in 1973 added his first Registered Charolais females and the Bar -J Charolais herd continues as a family operation today. Jack had a passion and talent for breeding quality livestock.

In the 1990’s Jack returned to the hobby from his youth of breeding purebred exhibition bantam ducks and he soon rose to the top winning Grand Champion at shows across Canada and the U.S.. Above all Jack loved his family and the people around him. He loved to tell stories and share memories. He was an honest man who stood by his values and wasn’t afraid to tell it like it was. His most lasting legacy will be the young people he mentored and set on the path to success, both family and those who became extended family.

Jack was predeceased by his parents Alec Robertson and Marie Robertson (Anderson), brother James and sister Donna.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gloria (Kirton), their son Clint (Lynn), three grandsons Justin (Hayley), Max & Ty (Desiree). Great grandchildren James and Jax. Sisters Ruby MacDonald and Peggy Wilson (Stan), many nieces and nephews and his Border Collie “Dolly”. In keeping with his wishes Jack will be cremated.

We will miss you Grandpa Jack!