It is with great sadness that the family of Gregory Jarvis announce his passing in Ottawa on November 13th, 2022, at the age of 69. Beloved husband of Rita Jarvis (Hovey). Cherished father of Kari Jarvis (Steve) and the late Corey Jarvis. Loving grandfather of Anna and Max. Brother of Lindon (Judy) and Perry (Dianne). Son of the late David and Helen Jarvis.
Greg was born in Saint John, New Brunswick in 1953. He enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1971 and completed his studies at the University of New Brunswick and the University of Alberta.
Initially posted to the Base Controller Branch at CFB Edmonton where her served as Non-Public Funds Accounting Officer and later Accounting Officer. In 1978 he was posted to National Defence Headquarters, where he served as Staff Officer to the Director General Financial Administration until proceeding to sea in 1980.
In 1983, he was posted ashore to the Maritime Command Headquarters where he served as Staff Officer Accounting Services and later Senior Staff Officer Finance. He attended the Canadian Forces Command and Staff College in 1985 and was promoted to Commander upon his graduation in 1986.
Promoted to Captain (N) in 1990 he assumed the duties of Deputy Chief of Staff (Logistics) and in 1992, assumed the appointment of Command Comptroller for Maritime Command. In 1993 he was posted to National Defence College in Kingston to attend course 47 and was promoted to the rank of Commodore and assigned duties as Director General Financial Services at National Defence Headquarters. In 1996 he was promoted to Rear-Admiral and was appointed to the new Director General Finance position and named the Departmental Comptroller. He was promoted to Vice-Admiral in December 2000.
Greg proceeded in his professional development, among other things, completion of the Queen’s Executive Program and a one -year assignment with the Conference Board of Canada exploring best practices in human resource management. He returned to National Defence in 2003 and served as Special Advisor to the CDS pending his appointment as Assistant Deputy Minister (Human resources – Military).
Greg holds a Master of Business Administration Degree from the University of Alberta and is a Certified Management Accountant.
Following his retirement, Greg worked as an Auditor with the Federal Government.
Aside from Greg’s impressive Military career, he was cherished by his family and fondly remembered for his self-taught ways of fixing anything and everything. There was nothing he couldn’t do, especially when it was a request from his grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), for a Memorial Service on Thursday, November 24th, 2022, at 10 a.m., followed by an interment with Military Honours in the National Military Cemetery located at Beechwood Cemetery. At the request of the family, we please ask that you wear a mask when attending the indoor services. For those who wish to make a donation, please do so to Diabetes Canada.
Digital Guestbook
Judith Mooney
Danielle Thompson
Rita ,Kari and family my deepest condolences on the passing of Greg
Eric Gregory
My deepest condolences. Greg was a great shipmate in Athabaskan and an outstanding leader in his many roles in Ottawa. I always enjoyed working with him. He will be missed
Todd Mitton
An exception leader and mentor. It was my honour to serve as his Chief of Military Personnel Comptroller, where he, as always, took exceptional interest in the well being and development of his staff. My sincerest condolences to your family.
Heather LeBlanc
I am so very sorry to hear of Greg's passing. I know his parents Dave and Helen were immensely proud of all of his accomplishments and cherished their visits together. My sincere sympathies to his wife, children , grandchildren and two brothers. RIP Greg.
Brian Moreau
You are in our prayers. God bless.
Kimberley Berquist (Moreau)
We are so sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. Our condolences to his family and friends.
Ray Ziuliani
My sincere condolences Rita and family. Greg was a good friend and he will be missed by many. I pray that you can find some level of peace by holding dear the many memories you shared with Greg. May he rest in peace.
Carl Comeau
Special guy ...
Russ & Cathie Ingram
Rita and Kari,
Cathie and I are shocked by this news and send you and your family our deepest condolences. Greg was the most inspirational leader with whom I have ever served. My time with him as his Chief Storesman in ATHABASKAN was the highlight of my career. What a devastating loss - our hearts are with you.
I was fortunate to work with Vice-Admiral Jarvis during my time at NDHQ. He was a kind, caring boss and colleague who was always willing to listen and offer constructive advice. News of his passing is very sad. My condolences to the entire family.