John "Jack" Francis Xavier McCann peacefully passed away on September 5, 2024.  He was survived by his loving daughters, Colleen McCann and Kathleen Sipio, former wife and mother of his children, Agnetta "Mickie" McCann, and his adoring granddaughter, Jacqueline Bella Sipio.

Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife, Annette "Nettie" McCann. Survived by Nettie's children, Debbie Waser (Mike), Donna Morawski (Rich), Shelly Novak, Tommy Novak (Lisa), Cheryl Paluszek (Michael). Nettie's grandchildren, Holly Jo Harvey (Joe), Richie Morawski (Nina), Casey Crowley (Billy), Kira, Justin and Erica. And Nettie's great-grandchildren: Izzy, Ali, Tripp.

He was predeceased by his dear siblings: Joseph (Lillian), Dan (Diane), James "Ace" (Gerry), and Mary Theresa Murray (Frank) who laughed with him and loved him throughout their lives.

Jack was a loving uncle to Geraldine (Mike), Jimmy (Kristen), Elizabeth (Kevin), Michael, Maureen (Jeff), Lisa (Jeff), Michael (Rachel), Kara and Teresa, Laura Beth, Timothy, and Jennifer (Brian).

Born to Mary & Joseph McCann on March 29, 1941, Jack attended and graduated from St. Helena's School and Cardinal Dougherty High School. In 1964, he stepped onto the docks of the Delaware River and became a member of the International Longshoremen's Association Local 1242. Little Ace, as he was affectionately known, left an indelible mark on the Philadelphia waterfront throughout his six decades of dedication to the union membership.  He wore many hats along the way, and Jack was seen, more often than not, in a Local 1242 hat – proud to speak with any ears that would listen about politics – his lifelong passion.  He lived for Election Day in the city – going from polling place to polling place while stopping in watering holes throughout Philadelphia to get the vote out. In labor negotiations, Jack had a seat at the table and would listen to others for hours, or even days, into late nights of negotiations compiling legal pads of notes and scribbling on napkins which would make a difference for the final union Contract. For 22 years, he was a Business Agent for Local 1242.  He was a recognized expert on maritime issues. Jack also served in leadership roles throughout his career. He served as a Trustee, International Longshoremen's Association Philadelphia Marine Trade Association Pension Fund.  Served as a Delegate for the Port Advisory Council and as President of District Council of Philadelphia, New Jersey, and Wilmington ILA. Jack was Chairman of ILA Political Action Committee.  His international positions included Appointed Member of Rules, Credentials, Grievance, Constitution and Law Committee, Sargeant of Arms, Wage Scale Delegate, Elected Delegate of International and Atlantic Coast District Conventions and as a Delegate for AFL/CIO- COPE. Jack was a labor leader with a proven record of building consensus within Longshoremen's Association and other labor associations. He retired from the ILA in 2005.

Jack loved spending days sitting on the porch at Mercer Street & Delancey Place, and those Wildwood nights, having a beer at Cheers, playing the numbers, reading, and chasing the perfect cheesecake. In recent years, his ball cap was a "RETIRED" ILA hat, or a Celebration Florida hat.  More recently, he sported a University of Florida gator hat for Jacqueline's college. He loved hearing about family and friends' whereabouts, their flight deals, and travels, while being home with his bride in Philadelphia. He was a good man that did great things – considered life an adventure and regaled all who knew him with his skilled storytelling. A life well-lived and a life well-loved - Jack did it his way.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to the John "Jack" McCann Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Education Foundation, Osceola County, Florida. Donations can be made online www.foundationosceola.org or mail donations to: Education Foundation- Osceola County, 2310 New Beginnings Road #118, Kissimmee, Florida, 34744. Checks should be made payable to the Osceola County Education Foundation.  Direct donation to John "Jack" McCann Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate his life on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church at 2535 E. Allegheny Avenue, Port Richmond/Philadelphia, Pa 19134.

·         Visitation 10AM – 11:30AM.

·         Mass & Service at 11:30AM.