Jack Anthony Puglisi

Jack was born in Minneapolis on December 25, 1941 to Joseph and Olive (Akervik) Puglisi. The family moved to Duluth early. Jack attended Denfeld High School the class of 1960 where he excelled in football. He went on to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities where he also played football. He finished his college education at the University of Wisconsin Superior. Jack married Carol Jean Anderson on October 31, 1963. They moved to Florida for a short time where Jack was under contract as a full back for the St. Petersburg Blazers. Upon returning to Duluth, Jack embarked on a lifelong entrepreneurial career. He worked for a time at Goldfines, co-founded J&J Auto, founded Puglisi Toyota and operated many other ventures most notably Puglisi’s Gun Emporium. Jack was the patriarch of the family and had a larger than life persona. He was charismatic, strong and flamboyant yet kind and caring. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing as well as philosophizing, teaching and helping out his family and friends. His memory will endure.

He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Olive and sister JoAnne.

Jack is survived by his wife Carol; son John (Linda) Puglisi; daughter Lynn (Brad) Thompson both of Duluth; grandchildren, Troy, Alyssa, Hannah and Brooke Thompson, Anthony, Maria and Joann Puglisi as well as many other family members and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 P.M. on Monday, July 18, 2011 at Elim Lutheran Church 6101 Cody St. and again one hour prior to the service at the church. Funeral service will be at 11 A.M. on Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at Elim Lutheran with Pastor Jim Hagen officiating. Interment will be in Oneota Cemetery. Bell Brothers Funeral Home 624-5745