Jack was incredibly kind, humble, generous, hard working, and a remarkably talented chef. I treasure the time working in the kitchen at Vegetarian Haven. He had a great sense of humour and took care of his restaurant staff like family. I’ll never forget all the amazing staff meals between shifts, where you really felt part of the Vegetarian Haven family. Thank you, Jack. Rest In Peace.

My heart goes out Mrs. Tong, Auntie, Jackie and Beth. 

HAPPY 62ND BIRTHDAY TO JACK! Missing your infectious smile and laughter. May you be extraordinarily well wherever you are.

Thinking of Jack today on the anniversary of his death. Continuing condolences to his extended family who I'm sure misses him every day. Eternal thanks to Jack for his kindness and inspiration.

As a long-time vegan and long-time board member of the Toronto Vegetarian Association, whose office was for many years located above Vegetarian Haven, I enjoyed frequent contact with Jack. Without fail he offered a smile and a kind word even when he was rushing to and from the kitchen.

Of course I loved his cooking, especially those aptly named specials, but even more will remember his friendliness.

My condolences to all who knew and loved him.

Following the final service at Vegetarian Haven on 17 Baldwin on July 14th 2019.

I was deeply saddened to hear about Jack's passing. He left an indelible mark on my life, and I can only imagine the profound impact he had on those who were fortunate to know him more intimately.

From 2005 to 2008 I worked long hours at the Toronto Vegetarian Association, and Jack's daily visits with delicious vegan meals were a ray of sunshine in my day. His culinary creations were a feast for the senses, but it was his warmth and care that touched my heart the most. His cheerful demeanour, infectious smile, and mischievous sense of humour brightened my days. But most of all, he made me feel so well cared for.

In a 2006 letter to my French-speaking father, I wrote about Jack, describing him as "tellement, tellement gentil" ("so, so kind"). Despite language barriers, Jack's kindness transcended words. He, along with Shing and the Veg Haven community, provided me with a sense of belonging.

Jack may no longer be with us in person, but his legacy of dedication, integrity, and boundless love will continue to live on in our hearts. Jack's kindness and generosity have made a deep and lasting impact on all of us, and we are richer for having known him.

My deepest condolences to all of Jack's family and friends. May you find solace in the beautiful memories you shared and the wonderful impact he had on so many lives.

My sincere sympathy Shing, and to all of Jack’s family and friends.  

During my years volunteering upstairs from Veg Haven, I enjoyed Jack’s delicious meals, invigorating smile, caring suggestions and fun conversations.  

His visits helped light up the TVA RC in that humble but welcoming Baldwin house with it’s exposed brick walls.  

He always reminded us to turn everything off before we left, but I suspect he’s left lights on in everyone he met.  

I'm incredibly sorry to hear this very sad news. I have so many fond memories of Jack. His dedications to his work and to those around him was incredible, he was so hard working and always so eager to help us at TVA with whatever we needed. When we moved offices, I missed him dearly. One of my fondest memories is when I dropped my grandmother's ring behind the wall in the washroom. I figured there was no way to get it back, in the wall, but just incase left a note with the staff at Veg Haven to pass on to him, asking him if it was possible to find it. The next morning, the ring was sitting on my desk. I was so thrilled and touched, and I again went down to the staff at Veg Haven, and passed along a thank you card for him. The next morning, on my desk was a card from him thanking me, for thanking him. :) I am so sorry he left this world this early and I'm sorry for all the people who will be missing him so much.