Jackie Lee Quillen

Born to Verl and Katherine (Gough) Quillen on January 30, 1939 in Patoka, Indiana. Preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Dixie Bognar and Pamela Dillon. He is survived by his brother, Rick Quillen, of Goodrich, Michigan.

At 17, Jack left home to join the U.S. Navy, where he traveled the world and learned his craft as a boilerman. After his enlistment ended, he had many interesting and varied jobs on the west coast, such as truck driver, roofer, brick layer and corrections officer for the State of California. His enlistment and innumerable jobs made him a Jack-of-all-trades and provided the foundation for his career.

After returning to Michigan, he became the plant supervisor at a local hospital. He married Phyllis (Stephan) Quillen in September of 1969, in her hometown of Upper Sandusky, Ohio. Together they built a life in Southeastern Michigan, eventually spending their winters in Florida. Jack is survived by his wife and their two children, Meredith (Jim) Flynn of Beverly Hills, Michigan and Jason (Jodi) Quillen of Waterford, Michigan, and their granddaughters, Morgan and Lauren Flynn.

Jack was a skilled marksman; trap shooting being his favorite. He traveled domestically and internationally for the love of the sport. From Navojoa Sonora, Mexico to Saskatchewan, Alberta; he was an adventurer. His many years of shooting took him to numerous competitions and brought him countless friendships, which he maintained until his final days.

Despite, or perhaps inspired by, his humble beginnings, Jack recognized those less fortunate who walked among us. His hunting was purposeful, in that after a long day of hunting, he would give the day’s catch to locals in need, many of whom scarcely had a roof over their heads. Whether he was collecting bicycles, clothing and treats to distribute on his adventures or offering a meal, he was keenly aware of all that he had.

Jack will be remembered as fiercely loyal patriarch who will be dearly missed by his family and friends. A private family memorial will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation at www.garysinisefoundation.org or (888)708-7757.