Jack Irving, the man behind the colossal construction, engineering and steel segment of the Irving family empire has died in his hometown of Saint John, N.B. at the age of 78. Irving is survived by two sons, John and Colin and daughter, Anne. “Jack Irving was truly the builder of the family,” New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham said in a statement. His brother Arthur continues to run the Irving oil business, while brother J.K. and family run the forestry and shipping businesses. He will be remembered as “a proud New Brunswicker who gave generously to heritage and arts initiatives,” says New Brunswick Progressive Conservative Leader David Alward. His funeral will be held Saturday in Saint John.