John Dewar

December 15, 1942 - March 16, 2010
John Dewar

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John Wallace Dewar (Jack) age 67 passed away on Tuesday, March 16, 2010, at his home in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Jack was born in Pittsburgh, PA on December 15, 1942. Jack was a graduate of Largo High School, Largo, FL and attended St. Petersburg College, St Petersburg, FL. Jack had a passion for music and was a talented guitarist. At the age of 12 he started to perform in many weddings and celebrations in the Pittsburgh area. When Jack moved to Florida he continued to perform in night clubs in the St. Pete area. He was invited to play with Guy Lombardo’s Big Band, but instead, chose a career in the automobile business. He worked at McCracken Oldsmobile in Homestead, PA which was formerly his father’s dealership, George C. Dewar Olds. Jack was sales manager at McCracken Olds when he left to become general manager at Reardon Olds, Lakewood, FL. In 1976 he return to PA. and worked as sales manager at Jim Dewar Olds, his brother’s dealership. He retired to Wilmington, NC, in 1997 where he was a self taught financial investor and formed JWD Securities. Jack and his wife Ilona enjoyed the sun and warm weather in Wilmington during Jack’s retirement years. He was the happiest when he was boating and sailing.

Surviving are his wife Ilona Miller Dewar of 31 years, son John W. Dewar and wife Sharon Cottle Dewar of Myrtle Beach, SC, granddaughter Sydney Dewar of Wallace, NC , stepsons Michael Vore and wife Michelle of Johnstown, PA, and Douglas Vore of Pottstown, PA, stepgrandchildren Tiffany and Michael Vore. Also survived by stepchildren Terry Dewar Pope and Jason Dewar, sister Georgia Matthews and husband Edward, and brother James C. Dewar and wife Patricia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Center 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC, 28401

No visitations at the home.

A memorial service will be held in Johnstown PA at Westmont Presbyterian Church in mid-April, at a date to be announced.

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • March 29, 2010
    Jim ands Patti Dewar says:
    Dear Tootie This has been a long Journey and now Jack is in a peaceful and loving place. He has arrived at a distant shore - He is home. Jack will always be in our hearts for he left us with many happy memories. You gave him the compassionate care he needed and he felt your love. We thank you for all you have done. Please know that God will send you peace and rejoice in the knowledge that life never ends. With gratitude and love, Jim and Patti

  • March 18, 2010
    BETTY & PETE BLANTON says:
    Pete was married to Toni & helped to lovingly raise Terri, John & Jayson. We are glad John was able to reconnect with his Dad and are saddened to learn of his passing, although, it is good to have him no longer suffering. May God carry you as no other can, Betty Blanton

  • March 19, 2010
    Glenn & Barb Smith says:
    We are saddened to hear about your loss. We know that he will be missed. May the Lord open his arms to Jack and also put his arms around his family.

  • March 19, 2010
    Marian Sleppy says:
    To the Dewar family, I send my deepest sympathy to all of your family. My memories go back to childhood and all the many sunday's we shared together in our homes and on the river boating.Jack's smile and good humor will never be forgotten. I feel great sadness as we loose another family member, but know how many people are so glad to see him in heaven above. I know God is holding all of you in his loving arms and I will keep all of you in my prayers as you go through this journey together. Much love to all of you, Marian Sleppy

  • March 20, 2010
    Larry and Nancy Chottiner says:
    Tootie, Nancy and I want you to know that we are keeping you in our prayers. We are saddened to learn of Jack's death. May God's arms be round you in these days ahead.