It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ivan "Leroy" Jacques, a dedicated veterinarian and esteemed Rotarian, husband, brother, father and grandfather on November 7, 2023.
Leroy was born on July 12, 1941 and dedicated his life to his family, the well-being of animals and the betterment of his community. He was born in Mineral Wells, Texas and graduated from Kennewick High School. He later graduated from Washington State University of Veterinary Medicine with honors, driven by a passion for caring for creatures great and small. While Leroy attended WSU, he met his wife Carol Chouinard and they enjoyed 60 years of marriage. Leroy's unwavering commitment to his profession earned him the respect and admiration of both colleagues and clients alike. For 43 years, he practiced in Seattle's Ballard community.
Leroy was an active and engaged member of the Rotary Club for 55 years. He was a past president of the Ballard Rotary Club and was a former Assistant District Governor of District 5050 . He was a Rotarian at Ballard, Shoreline, Arlington and honorary member at Burlington clubs. He believed in the power of international service projects such as the eradication of Polio, International Rotary Youth Exchange program, and helped facilitate hosting Soviet citizens in American homes during the 1990 Goodwill Games. He sold many Duck Dash tickets for Arlington Rotary aimed at scholarship funds and improving the town of Arlington. Leroy's leadership and dedication to Rotary principles left an indelible mark on the hearts of his fellow Rotarians.
A man of diverse interests, Leroy found joy in sail boat racing at the Shilshole and Corinthian Yacht Clubs. In addition to navigating the waters, Leroy's love for garden design turned his backyard into a botanical haven. Gardening was not just a hobby for him; it was a way to remember his travels and a canvas for his creativity. Leroy's garden included a Japanese and Italian garden which were all places he had traveled with Carol. Upon retirement, Leroy & Carol drove around the country of Ireland, cruised the Mediterranean through Southern Europe and the Caribbean passing through the Panama Canal.
Leroy Jacques is survived by his loving family, friends, and the countless lives he touched through his veterinary practice and community service. As we mourn his departure, let us remember the warmth of his smile, the kindness in his heart, and the positive impact he made on the world around him.
A memorial service to celebrate Leroy's life will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023; 2pm at Arlington United Church.
Leroy was preceded in death by parents Ivan Jacques and Ellen Chapman, infant daughter MaryEllen, and brother Alan.
Ivan Leroy Jacques, was born the first of four children followed by Alan Jacques, Jim Jacques, Colleen Ady, and step sisters: Jan, Gloria, and Carol Roberts.
They had two children, David Jacques (Wife: Katie Wozencraft) and Marianne Jacques (Husband: James Pauley) Their family expanded with eight grandchildren: Trevor, Geran, Nathan, Lauren, Gene, Caroline, Alison, and Megan.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ivan, please visit our floral store.
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ivan "Leroy" Jacques, a dedicated veterinarian and esteemed Rotarian, husband, brother, father and grandfather on November 7, 2023.
Leroy was born on July 12, 1941 and dedicated his life to his family, the well-being of animals and the betterment of his communit
Published on November 28, 2023
Saturday, December 2, 2023
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
In Memory of Ivan Jacques ("Leroy")