Jack’s vision for the Canadian Snowbird Association was to create “A strong and united voice for snowbird concerns.” In December 1993, Jack presided over the establishment of the Canadian Snowbird Association Special Action Fund. Twenty-five thousand CSA members donated money to the SAF to fund a lawsuit against the Ontario government for contravening the Canada Health Act by slashing out-of-country hospital payments by more than 75%, to a maximum of $100 per day. “Not one group or organization is defending the Canada Health Act. We are going to have to take up the mantle of responsibility. We are defending the integrity of the Canada Health Act.” On March 5, 1994, Jack’s 64th birthday, at the inaugural Canadian Snowbird Association Annual General Meeting, Jack Parry was elected its first president. In October of 1994, the CSA established its Currency Exchange Program to provide snowbirds with a dedicated, affordable and reliable method to transfer their winter expenses to their U.S.-based bank accounts in a convenient and secure manner. It has since grown to almost $200 million dollars per year. In addition to taking the government of Ontario to task in the courts, Jack and the CSA reached out to the leaders of the Opposition and implored them to pledge that, if elected, they would return payments for out-of-country medical services to the previous maximum of $400 per day. In 1995, the provincial election was held; the ruling party was voted out, and out-ofcountry medical payments were returned to their previous levels soon after, as Jack had envisioned. In the early days of the association, Jack propelled the group forward by personally presiding over large gatherings organized in Texas, California and Arizona…spreading the word and growing the organization throughout North America wherever snowbirds could be found. He was always eager to meet fellow snowbirds, answer their questions and share his vision. Jack was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal in recognition of his accomplishments and contributions to Canada. Jack had several pastimes which he enjoyed with Jenny, including his Honda Goldwing, sailing, square dancing, country music and their two dogs. He was an imposing man; as tall and handsome as he was sweet and kind. We remember and commemorate his life and, as we mourn his loss and bid him farewell, we know that his legacy will live on forever. Jack passed peacefully at home on March 18 surrounded by his loving and supportive family. He lived a long and happy life. As Jack said to the initial board of directors and the countless volunteers who dedicated their time, effort and talent to starting this unique organization: “Thank you for a job well done.” Jack was a warrior and he fought many government battles both in the U.S. and Canada on behalf of all snowbirds, giving of his time and boundless energy. Although you are gone from our sight, Jack, you are never from our hearts. Canadian Snowbird Association steering committee in 1992 CSANews | SPRING 2023 | 53
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