Jack Richard Shook Jr.

Jack Richard Shook Jr., our eternal Valentine, entered this world in Amarillo, Texas, on Feb. 14, 1948, in the midst of a blizzard to Marie Blades and Jack Shook Sr. He transitioned into the next world on Monday, September 26, 2016, after a combination of infections overtaxed a heart already plagued with atrial fibrillation. He told his long exasperated wife that we won’t know which direction he went until we get there ourselves, but she expects to see him in heaven.

After a life full of adventures, most dealing with high performance cars, he knew he would have to answer for his transgressions so he made sure to have some good times along the way. He and his wife Barbara traveled across the United States, including driving the length of Old Route 66. Jack also served his community as an election judge in Fort Bend County for more than 20 years and worked in AARP Tax Aid for almost a decade.

Jack is survived by a number of kinfolk, some of whom may or may not claim him. His wife Barbara enjoyed/endured 47 years with him. They had two children whom he adored, Robyn and Daniel. Other survivors include Robyn’s daughter Stoney and Daniel’s wife Crusita and their sons Nicholas and David. He enjoyed his grandchildren, who called him “Papaw.” Additional survivors include his brother, Lloyd Blades Chinn; his uncle and aunt Rusty and Vela Blades; his aunt Louise Hope; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother William Martin, sister Barbara Martin Showers, and their mother Helen Marie Chinn, and step-father Lloyd P. Chinn. After a frank and open discussion with Barbara, Jack revealed his desire to have his ashes spread off the end of the Santa Monica Pier at sunset. He considered this site as the end of the Katy Freeway, one of his favorite high school haunts. Honoring his wishes, Barbara will do so, enjoying another trip to some of their favorite places in Southern California at the same time.

A memorial service honoring Jack’s life is schedule for Saturday, Oct. 1, at 11 a.m. at New Hope Lutheran Church, 1424 FM 1092 in Missouri City.

Contributions honoring Jack may be sent to the American Heart Association 10060 Buffalo Speedway Houston, TX 77054 832-918-4030.