John William "Jack" Juen

Jack never met a stranger. If you did not know him, you were instantly drawn in: first by his athletic six-foot-two stature, then by his movie-star good looks, and finally, by his sky-blue eyes. When he spoke–or sang–his words were delivered in his deep, full-bodied voice, dotted with disarming malapropisms.

Jack was an all-star athlete. At Cathedral High School, he was a standout as co-captain of the football team and captain of the basketball team. His talent earned him a football scholarship to Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and later a basketball scholarship to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, where he graduated in 1956. At St. Mary’s, he helped organize the university’s first golf team, cementing his lifelong passion for the sport. His athletic contributions were later honored with his induction into the St. Mary’s University Basketball Hall of Fame. He also served his country with distinction in the U.S. Air Force for four years.

While at St. Mary’s, he attended a dance where he met Elaine Brotherman–one of the Brotherman twins of San Antonio. They married in 1957. Together, they shared 46 years of marriage and had five children: Bradley Juen, Ann Juen Newman, Cynthia Juen Ryan, Byron Juen, and Emily Juen.

His employment took the family to St. Louis, Cincinnati, New York City and back to San Antonio. He worked as Regional Sales Manager for Friedrich Refrigeration and Federal Envelope Sales Manager before founding Champion Business Products, which he led for two decades.

He set a good example, prioritizing his family above all else. What he wanted most was to instill a strong moral compass in his children. He patiently taught them right from wrong, emphasizing the importance of integrity and decency.

Jack loved San Antonio. In 1974, he and Elaine were co-founders of the Monte Vista Historical Association, which helps to preserve the historic neighborhood where he raised his family. A committed community member, Jack was actively involved in several organizations, including the Rotary Club of San Antonio, Oak Hills Country Club, and the San Antonio Liederkranz.

As much as he loved his home, he was also an avid traveler. Throughout his life, his travels took him all around the world including his favorite destinations San Miguel, Mexico, and Italy.

After Elaine died in 2004, Jack was lucky enough to find love again–the second time with his lovely partner of 16 years Kay Simanek.

Nothing seemed to bring Jack down; he was always upbeat and optimistic. To his friends and family, he sparked joy through singing oldies in one-man concerts and envy through his lucky bingo streaks.

After suffering a stroke, Jack died peacefully on June 12 surrounded by his children and Kay as familiar 1940s tunes filled the room with calming nostalgia. Jack’s values of positivity, integrity, and kindness continue to be his legacy, carried forward by his children and his seven grandchildren.

The family expresses its gratitude to The Forum staff for the loving care Jack received.

A memorial celebration of Jack’s life will be held in the fall.