pg 572 More Big Hill Country 2009
Jack Macdonell was raised in Calgary, Alberta and Betty was raised on a farm near Manson, Manitoba. They met while working for the summer at Lake Louise. Their friendship blossomed into love and they were married on July 5, 1952.
The Macdonells came to Cochrane in 1956 when Jack accepted a teaching position at the “new” Andrew Sibbald Elementary School. He taught Social Studies, English Literature, Language Economics and Drama.
Many wonderful drama nights happened because of Jack’s dedication. Some of the plays were “The Valiant”, “Jane Eyre” and “Johnny Dunn”. The community really enjoyed these productions.
Jack eventually assumed the position of Principal and officially opened the new Cochrane High School in 1963 on Cochrane Heights. In 1966 he was appointed Assistant Superintendent for Rocky View School Division and commuted to the office in Calgary from Cochrane.
During 1968 and 1969, the Macdonells took a sabbatical from teaching and went to Reading, England. When they returned, Jack returned to the Rockyview School Division and in 1971 was appointed Superintendent. Jack’s love of teaching drew him back to the classroom when he accepted a position of principal in Bassano, Alberta.
Betty was a great homemaker and cook. She loved to bake. She was involved in the United Church as a UCW Member, a Sunday school teacher and a C.G.I.T. Leader. The children loved her vivacious personality. Betty and Jack mentored many young people over the years. They provided room and board for many students from Morley who found it difficult to attend school regularly from their homes. Betty’s brother Toby arrived from the farm to finish his grade 11 and 12, followed a year later by their sister Linda.
On their arrival in Cochrane, Betty and Jack rented the Sid Reed house and in I958 they bought the Klassen home where Jack pursued his love of building and renovating.
They retired to the Shuswap area of British Columbia where Jack built their home. In the winters, they spent a great deal of time travelling to many destinations. In 200l, due to failing health, they sold their home and moved to a modular home park in Vernon, British Columbia to be closer to doctors. They are living there today.
Betty and Jack have three daughters. Lynne Louise married Blair Pinder. She followed in her father’s footsteps and taught for the Rocky View School Division for several years. They live in Calgary.
Leslie was married and divorced. She has two sons Christopher and Bradley and two grandchildren. She lives in Toronto.
Margo never married, lives in Calgary and teaches music. All three girls graduated from Cochrane High School
