Celebrating the life of
Jeff Kirkland
We celebrate the life of our friend and colleague, Jeff. Please share your personal memories and stories of him.
Family and friends
+ 49
Dallas Christopher Visiting Stampede w. Bill Schultz
Laura Ponich Scavenger Hunt selfie in Winnipeg, MB with Wayne, Andrea, Jeff and myself. We obviously came first as Jeff refused to lose!
Jeff, You welcomed me as a new member of the Coke family and my first trip was to Calgary to meet with you. You were a kind, tough authentic leader who deeply cared about people and our business. I was lucky to have seen you in action and learn from you. You are missed! Love and best wishes always. Maureen
Cindy Dickie I’ve know Jeff for 32 years, as a matter of fact I interviewed Jeff when he applied to be a driver in Calgary. Without a doubt Jeff had the best work ethic of anybody I knew at Coca-Cola. Rest peacefully Jeff. Dwight Dickie
Although constantly on the go, Jeff was always generous with his time and willing to help support others and the betterment of the business.
I met Jeff briefly in one of SLMs and he made a huge impression on me on how passionate he was about the business and his impressive level of knowledge about all the intricacies of supply chain and sales. At that SLM Jeff also rallied all leaders to do better and you can feel how genuine his message was. Jeff was an inspiring leader. Jeff will be m...
Jeff, We will miss you wholeheartedly. You were a fearless leader but most importantly an amazing human being who truly cared about the people you worked with, your family, and in general others in this world. We will miss your corny jokes and endless ability to devour pizza and all things candy-coated during long meetings. We could always co...
You will be missed. Your passion and energy has inspired many people to be better and do better everyday and that remains with us always.
Jeff, you had such a profound impact on my career at Coke, thank you for the teachings, time and leadership. One of the coolest Jeff moments for me…I was doing some training that was over a 2 week period so I was going to have to stay over a weekend, and it happened to be Halloween weekend. I didn’t want to fly home just for a day because of the...
I have been honoured to know and work with Jeff for the past 20 years. He was one of the finest human beings I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. He had a deep love for life and an incredible ability to share that love with everyone he met. His family meant everything to him. Sandy and TJ were profoundly loved. I have a deep sense of loss kn...
Laura Ponich Jeff watching his son TJ enjoy a Family Day at the Calgary Plant!
I will never forget the time Jeff took to engage myself as a young merchandiser almost 10 years ago. He caught me prepping a Walmart for a trade tour because him and the ELT were ahead of schedule. I was incredibly embarrassed but he genuinely took the time to meet me and share some of his wisdom with me for a good 10 minutes. That was the first...
Jeff's infinite wisdom to business and his quick witted sense of humor will sorely be missed.
While the lessons learned from you around our business were innumerable, what resonates most is the inspiration drawn from the qualities of dedication, sincerity and humility that shone through your words and actions. Your mentorship, support, belief and kindness toward myself and my family will never be forgotten, and to your family, friends and l...
ashleyboey7@gmail.com Boey Jeff and mini-Jeff cake for his 30th anniversary at Coca-Cola!
A major loss to so many! Jeff was a great support during my career with Coca-Cola Canada, always fair in criticism and quick to celebrate success. It was an honour to have worked with him and for him. Even after I left the company to work on the distributor side of the business his support continued. Throughout the last fourteen years since leavin...
Lindsay Allan Photos from the Western Canada Career Compass in June 2019. Jeff’s unwavering support of his employees was unmatched. I recall him getting emotional talking to this group of emerging leaders. He was so proud to be part of their development, for both the participants as well as for the future of Coke Canada. Jeff was truly an inspiration to us all.
Mike Pontin For the past 3 years I've hosted a Western Canada meeting, and I ask that all the presenters send me a picture for their title slide. For the first year or so, Jeff would stick with a simple head-shot, not being one to branch out with a selfie. Last year I told him it was time to mix it up, and he immediately humoured me with a great shot from the Vancouver market with Vicky. But every month since then he would only send me pictures of TJ. A gentle reminder that while we all work hard, there are bigger reasons why we do it. Jeff didn't leave any doubt as to what he cared about most in this world.
It's not easy to find a true leader to look up to, so it was a wonderful experience to work with such a great one like you. You revolutionized this business on so many different levels and spent countless hours mentoring the people within it. Words can neither qualify nor quantify how helpful your guidance and advice has been. I am forever gratef...
Jeff Fitch Jeff at a Women's Foodservice Forum event in Toronto
As we walk thru life there are folks that cross our path and undenounced to us a the time will make a pivotal impact. When I first worked for you 13 years ago you were a force of inspiration beyond my belief. Your intensity and passion for the business was immediately apparent but most of all your focus and attention to your people was paramount. A...
Words cannot express how much you have impacted my life. You will be so missed. God bless you.
Jeff was the 24 hour man, ever since our first meeting in 1993, Jeff was busy 24 hours a day - 7 days a week. We built many mass and some award winning displays together, he was always there to support the retailer in what ever way possible. Tracy and I were fortunate enough to become close with Jeff in the early days, it was our honor to h...
Jeff and I became closer over the past few years because my husband had the same cancer as him. I was fortunate enought that he was able to win the battle and he is now healthy. Your support over that period was very appreciated. I will miss you. Erika
Jennifer Leduc I will always remember Jeff as a great manager and mentor. He was also an incredible advocate for women in leadership. When Jeff stepped down as Vice-Chair of Women's Food Service in Canada, he passed the torch to me, opening the door for me to serve this amazing organization and its members. For that I will be forever grateful. Jeff - I will miss you.
As serious as Jeff was about our business he always tried to do what was right for his people. He would joke, laugh, poke fun at his team and accepted being made fun of in return. I have so many memories of Jeff but one of my favourites was how he convinced me to ride the Behemoth at Canada’s Wonderland in the name of team work. I am horrified...
Robb Davies Born Leader
Jeff. An amazing friend who thought more of others than himself. In the midst of his challenges all he wanted to do was help others including me. The most unselfish and generous individual I have ever known. You are with us always. Love Ken King
Dear Sandi, TJ and family, I am deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Jeff was such a passionate man and was always so supportive of me. I had the utmost respect for him and always will. My heartfelt sympathy on your loss. He will be truly missed. A true legacy. Tanya Beyak Radium, BC
Catherine Bell Jeff was instrumental in my 3 year involvement sitting on the WFF (Women Foodservice Forum) Marketing Board. He helped me network within the industry and encouraged me to build my brand. He was engaging and always supportive. He made time to talk to you and you never felt rushed. His sincerity and authenticity was always present. You will be missed!
Jeff was among one of the first people I met when I started with the company almost 20 years ago and over the years, I have learnt so much from him. I have always appreciated his support, knowledge and words of wisdom. Jeff always had a smile and that smile just got bigger when he would stop by my desk and ask for the candy jar lol. Literally,...
A genuine man gone from us way to soon. A dedicated man for the RED team put in numerous hours in and away from office to make sure RED was 1st. Over the course of 21 years with Coke I have learned a lot from Jeff and with his support and leadership got me to where I am today. Myself and colleagues will miss him greatly. My condolences go out to J...
I first met Jeff about 12 years ago when I started as a merchandiser in Calgary. I didn’t know him as anyone other than our VP, but I remember him taking the time to introduce himself and ask about me and my short time with Coke. There was a presence about him that inspired, and you could feel it resonate throughout the organization. At a time when...
Joe Rae Even during Jeff's toughest times, he would always reach out and ask how my wife & I were doing during her pregnancy, whether through email or during visits. Even sending a toy box when she was born. His thoughtfulness and care is something that myself and my wife/daughter will never forget. His passion for this company goes without saying, but it was his passion for his people is what I learned from him and something we could all embrace as we honour Jeff. Sending my condolences to Sandy, TJ and his whole family & Friends. Sincerely, Joe Rae
A business relationship that grew into a wonderful friendship. Everlasting memories too numerous to mention , highlighted with the Olympic Torch , Winter Olympics , running , Coke Zero , grilled cheese at Nash , movies and soo much more ! Loved the quiet strength and passion Jeff brought to daily living You will always be remembered and sadly mis...
I've never met anyone who displayed the passion Jeff did for everything important in his life. Whether it was Sandi/TJ, his new house, Terry Fox Foundation, his work, his meal choices Jeff displayed passion for everything important to him. This was contagious to everyone that had the opportunity meet him. As I look back to the many learnings fro...
I would like to say a few words about my friend Jeff. He and I have been co-workers since 2006 and friends since 2007. Yes, it took me a whole year to win him over. The first time we met at a Toronto meeting, I invited him for dinner, it felt like it was the right thing to do since we were the only two outsiders present. He was quick to respond in ...
Thanks for always pushing us to achieve our best! You will be missed. Penjani Nyangulu
I first met Jeff when he interviewed me in November 2003 before I moved to Edmonton. Little did I know at that moment l would meet a person like Jeff. He was strong in his convictions, supportive beyond measure and truly cared not only about the business, but also the humans inside it. I have many amazing memories of Jeff. From him popping by on...
I have known Jeff for many years and always known that he was a great leader with a huge passion to win. One favorite memory of Jeff was during an infamous trade tour in Newfoundland that went on for a few days longer than anticipated due to a "foggy" weather situation. After a few long days I was planning another evening dinner with the executive ...
❤❤ Rest in peace jeff ❤❤ You will always be remembered. My Thoughts and prayers to Sandi n TJ
One of my favourite memories was when I was at my desk just a few months into my career at Coke, and Jeff walked by. He stopped suddenly, turned around and began walking directly towards me with a serious look on his face. I said “Hi Jeff” to which I got no response. At the time, I did not know him very well and his personality was a little intimid...
I worked closely with Jeff for four years. He was passionate about everything Coca-Cola and passionate about developing his team to make them the best they could be. But of course his true love was Sandi, TJ and his beloved dogs. He worked hard but always made sure his work/life balance reflected his love of family. My wife always told me that I...
I had the privilege of working with Jeff on a number of projects over the years and would often find myself reaching out to him for feedback or advice. Like he has done for so many others Jeff would always make himself available and provide guidance and perspective as needed. In the latter years our paths would not cross as frequently and when t...
Jessica Belair Jeff and I started working together when I inherited the Dollarama business back in 2009, and man oh man was he demanding. I quickly learned that whatever question he was asking, he actually already knew the answer to it. I was fortunate enough to move back to Field Sales shortly after he became the VP and continued working indirectly for him up until he became my direct manager a few years back in one of his favorite places in Canada, Calgary. I was lucky to be sharing the same work address as him and spend as much time as we did together. Jeff was a great mentor and always believed in me. Despite his health situation in the last few months, Jeff was always looking out for others and making sure we were in good spirits. Family was important to him, and he made us remember to spend quality time with the ones we love. I will miss our quick phone calls as well as trade tours together, especially since we would stop for ice cream on the way back to the office. I like to think that Jeff was not only my boss, but also my friend and I will always cherish great memories of him. Rest in peace Jeff.
Rest in Peace Jeff. You will truly be missed. Prayers to Sandi and T.J.
Jeff will be missed by many at Coca-Cola. I remember our last conversation. He took the time to sit down with me and offer me advice about my career path at Coke. Jeff was always sincere, and always candid. Jeff was serious in business; he pushed you to do better. At the same time, he was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Coke Canada wil...
I was really sad to hear the news about Jeff and I send my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. He was such a shining star in the WFF Canada work – a wise counsel, a great mentor, a passionate advocate for gender balanced workplaces and as they say here in Australia just a great bloke!! I always think of him and the Coke team when I ...
Although I only had the pleasure of knowing Jeff for a couple years, his impact on everyone around him was truly profound. An inspirational leader, dedicated employee, loyal friend and brilliant father and husband. Jeff was a man of true integrity and the world will miss him. We extend our deepest condolences to Sandi and TJ from the entire A&W ...
Jeff was always very supportive of me and my career, which I greatly appreciated. We often shared a good laugh about funny situations at work when we were together. The greatest impression he left on me was to always remember, on good days and bad, that working for Coca-Cola was a privilege and a blessing. I am very grateful for all he did for m...
Jeff you have been an incredible leader and mentor and the ultimate inspiration to all of us to better our business and ourselves. I enjoyed and appreciated all our time together - your special ability to give a tough love push while inspiring and your words of wisdom in challenging situations were always exactly what I needed. Whether we were wal...
You will be missed deeply and remembered fondly. My condolences to Sandi and TJ. Rest easy, Jeff.
Jeff, a poem for you...…. It has meant so much having you as a friend you will always be a part of me until we meet again. when times were tough you were always there it has brightened my world just knowing you cared you are a friend, mentor and a guide since we met our friendship has grown while you were in this world I never felt alone I f...
Jeff, You will be missed but remembered all the time. You were one of the people I always looked up to in the leadership meetings. As a friend you always had open arms welcoming me. Sandi and TJ please accept our deepest condolences. Sai & Shyamala.
Jeff will be truly missed by the Coke Family in Canada. It was a pleasure to work with him over the past 25 years.
Jeff was always dynamic and cheerful. My heart felt condolences to his bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace.
Rest In Peace, Jeff.
My deepest condolences to the family. Rest In Peace Jeff. You will be missed.
He was always so kind and so patient and he will be missed dearly.
Jeff will stay engraved in my memory as the ultimate representation of what passion truly means. A source of inspiration... Jeff, we will make it a purpose to ensure that your legacy lives forever.
Jeff, when I became a VP in this organization, you made a point of connecting with me and wanting to make sure that I could benefit from your sound advices. I cherish this deeply and it has stayed an important guidance for me. I always had dynamic and insightful conversations each time with you. Your passion for the business is the most inspiring...
My friendship with Jeff started a decade ago. In 2010, a passionate group of female leaders decided to change the conversation about inclusion, diversity and the advancement of women leaders in Canada. The WFF (Women's Foodservice Forum) was an established organization in the USA but had little understanding or capabilities of supporting a chapt...
Jeff - you were a Coca-Cola Canada patriarch. This organization, and many of the people who work here are better because of you. Thank you for all of your contributions, for pushing hard, for never being satisfied. Well Done.
Jeff has been a wonderful friend and colleague for the past 9 years. He "adopted" our family in 2011, having just landed in Oakville as immigrants I am very blessed to have been asked to do the Coke Eulogy in both Calgary and Toronto. Although very hard and deeply moving, I will never forget that. I will always miss his tenacity. His sense of op...
Rest in peace Jeff... you left such an amazing legacy with Coca-Cola...we will be missing you...
Brigid Pelino Jeff was an incredible advocate for women in food service industry. As Chair of the Canadian WFF, I worked closely with Jeff on a number of initiatives. And EVERY time, in EVERY ask, Jeff came through as an incredible leader. My deepest condolences to Jeff's family......both personal and professional. He will be remembered for all he has done for others.
Jeff never lost his energy, enthusiasm and passion for this business its people. Even in the darkest moments, and after Jeff had physically been away for many weeks, he remained totally connected to his many friends and colleagues and his made his influence felt every single day! Never once did he complain about his own situation - Jeff was only ...
Jeff, You were a colleague, peer, mentor and most importantly a cherished friend. I will always remember the numerous conversations we had at the end of the day, usually starting with your CP24 traffic update, and ending with "take care buddy". You were always so focused on ensuring everyone around you had the tools and support to be successful. Yo...
Join Memories to request access to contribute your cherished photos, videos, and stories to Jeff's memorial with others who loved them.
Join MemoriesWe celebrate the life of our friend and colleague, Jeff. Please share your personal memories and stories of him.
Family and friends