John "Jack" Cahalan

John “Jack” Cahalan was born to Frank and Pearl Cahalan on July 22, 1929. Graduated from Cedar Rapids Roosevelt in 1947, and joined the U S Navy. He served on the USS Vesole for 4 years during the Korean War and continued his service in the US Naval Reserves until 1991. In the mid 1960s, he developed a crush on a beautiful French woman named Genevieve. Knowing he was a shy man, Jack’s buddy Buster made him a bet that he wouldn’t get up the nerve to ask her on a date. When he arrived at her home, he found 4 children: Jerry (9), Cathy (8), Sandy (7) and Michele (3). He politely inquired as to whether or not she was babysitting, to which she replied, “No. They are all mine!” Never one to run from a challenge, Jack not only continued the date, but showed up the next day with toys and treats for all of them. While Buster never paid up for losing the bet, Jack always believed he was paid with much more than money—he was rewarded by spending the remainder of his days with the love of his life. In 1967, he and Genevieve were married and celebrated their honeymoon at Niagara Falls with his mother-in-law along for the trip. January of 1969 brought Jack and Genny their “bonus” baby, Stephanie. Jack spent his entire professional career as a purchasing manager for MRC, which later became Westinghouse, and finally became NCS. This loyalty to a company that would change leadership and corporate titles is one of many examples of a man who once committed, would never turn his back nor change his course. Jack was a dedicated husband who loved his wife fiercely. He was also a devoted father to all of his children. Jack was a doting and loving grandfather and great grandfather, and they will all cherish their memories of Grandpa Jack. Jack is survived by the one true love of his life Genevieve Cahalan, sister Mary Davis (Richard), son Jerry Cahalan (Denise), daughter Cathy Cahalan, daughter Sandy Sowder, daughter Michele Wolf (Dennis), and daughter Stephanie Schnoebelen (Dave). Grandchildren include Ben Cahalan (Ashley), Melanie Blondin (Andy), Kaely Harrington (Michael), Luke Schnoebelen (Rebecca), Zach Cahalan (Rachel), Will Lockray, Trista Trader (Shawn), Jon Cahalan, Jeff Horrell, Jenny Griffith (Craig), Derek Schnoebelen, Amanda Bartch (Aaron), Amber Asher, Megan Asher, Lauren Schnoebelen, Madison Asher and several great-grandchildren. Jack was possibly the kindest man who ever lived and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.