Jack Duaine Pulford

Jack Duaine Pulford was born to parents Catherine and Bothwell Pulford on June 15, 1937, in their home in Moline Illinois. He was the youngest of three and had two sisters, Maxin Neels and Mary Armstrong. He graduated from Moline High School in 1955 and after graduating he joined the United States Navy and served as an Aviation Ordinance Specialist. He married Constance Freidman in 1960 in Rock Island Illinois. They had two children together, Dawn Marie (1961) and Mark Duaine (1962).

Jack owned and operated many restaurants in his career. Among those were the Belgrade in Moline, Sammy G Lanes in Moline, Jack’s Waterhole in East Moline, The Greenbriar in Moline, and Jack’s Stardust Lounge in Moline. He married Karen McDermotte in Moline. Jack was an avid golfer throughout his life. He was known for being one of the four Worst Avid Golfers (WAGS) and has been mentioned in Golf Digest, Sports Illustrated, and Time Magazine. He has also made appearances on ESPN and Dateline for his involvement in the WAGS Tournament in 1985. Jack was a member of the Board of Directors for the PGA Quad City Open (now known as the John Deere Classic).

In 2000, Jack and Karen moved to Chandler, Arizona. Jack retired in 2012 and enjoyed his time traveling with Karen, watching sports, and spending time with family and his dog Leo. Jack was a big fan of golf, the Fighting Illini, and the Cubs. He was able to attend game 3 of the World Series in 2016 and although they didn’t win that game it was a bucket list experience for him. Jack was blessed with six grandchildren Jennifer (38), Amber (38), Melinda (37), Jessica (36), Mark and Mike (34), and seven great-grandchildren Tanner, Colton, Kylie, Ariana, Jacob, Lilliana, and Grayson. Jack made many lifelong friends and he will be missed by all who ever had the privilege of meeting him. His laugh, zest for life, and his love of family and friends will be cherished memories for all who knew him. Jack is preceded in death by his mom and dad, both of his wives, both of his sisters, and his daughter Dawn.

For those who are unable to attend his funeral, a celebration of life will be held in Moline, Illinois on July 28, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 at Oakwood Country Club (1067 US-6, Coal Valley, IL 61240).

A visitation for Jack will be held Friday, June 21, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, then Jack's funeral and celebration of life at 1:00 PM, followed by his graveside in the cemetery with military honors; all services occurring at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery, 10940 E Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, Arizona 85248.