Club Chairman John Cooke writes a tribute to his dear friend and fellow Player, Jack Walsh, who passed away on 7th July, 2022.
It is with great sadness that we have had to say goodbye to our dear friend Jack Walsh who was one of the longest serving members of the Downsview Players. He passed away on Thursday 7th July in St Christopher’s Hospice after a short illness.
Jack spent much of his time locked away in the sound and lighting room with me for most of the productions and was one of our unseen heroes. He also helped the backstage crew with the set building, decorating and painting. Like any great Player, Jack was always willing to turn his hand to anything. We will miss him greatly.
He will be remembered fondly by all the Players - past and present - and especially for hosting the green rooms (our after show parties) along with his wife Elaine, who he met at drama. Not to mention the legendary Red Bull Club which everybody enjoyed and which became a regular part of their green rooms along with the fantastic music for dancing supplied by Elaine. The parties would often go on until the early hours!
Our next production will be a pantomime which Jack really loved. I’m sure he will be there in spirit to cheer us along.
Goodbye dear friend.
Jack's family were supported greatly by Macmillan Nurses and have set up a fundraising page in his honour. If you would like to donate, please visit: Just Giving
Pictures L-R:
Jack receives a Lifetime Achievement Award in March 2020 at the Downsview Players' annual dinner. It was our last evening together just before the pandemic and we all treasured that lovely evening.
Jack's Downsview Players' portrait.
John Cooke, left, sits with partner in crime Jack as the pair watch rehearsals at Downsview Methodist Church.
Jack (centre) stands with the crew on stage during the dress rehearsal for The Deep Blue Sea.
Elaine, Jack's wife, shares a smile with Jack at Player Martin Parham's birthday. The Players love spending social time together and Jack would always enjoy our parties.
Friends for life, Jack and Elaine with John and his wife Chris at another Players' event in 2019.
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