Jack Kamer

Jack Kamer passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Dec. 1st, 2023. Jack was born in Columbus, Ohio to Minnie and Edward Kamer. He graduated from West High School where his interest in Theatrical Lighting and Sound Production began. Jack continued these studies at The Ohio State University, and became a Stagehand with IATSE Local #12, working in movies, live concerts, and local performances. He met his future wife Daryl, during performances of "The Merry Widow" at the Sullivant Theatre on the O.S.U. Campus. She was a dancer in the cast, and he was working on lighting the show.

After their marriage, their love of dance combined with a local need for a professional ballet company, led to them being among the group of founding members of BalletMet. A fervent supporter both backstage and in the audience, Jack remained passionate for BalletMet throughout his life.

In 1981 The Ohio Theatre was looking for an Assistant Stage Manager and Jack was able to return to his roots. He held that position until his retirement in 2004. Like BalletMet, the Ohio held a special place in Jack's heart.

When not working, Jack could be found enjoying nature. His love of the outdoors started early when he joined Boy Scout Troop # 45. His troop members became lifetime friendships, especially that with Ken Danter, which continues to this day.

Campfires, camping, canoeing, boating and hiking were experiences from his youth that he shared with his family and friends. Jack began a love affair with sailing when an acquaintance from church needed help crewing during sailing races at Alum Creek Reservoir. Eventually, Jack studied for and passed his Captain's license through the USCG. Jack and his boat, Glissé, sailed up and down the Intracoastal waterway, on Chesapeake Bay and on Lake Erie, with family and dear friends, Mark and Kay Heigh.

Jack is survived by his loving family - wife, Daryl, daughters, Darielle and Aimee, sons in law, Matthew Eberhard and Kevin Yania, grandsons, Lance Walker (Heather) and Connor Eberhard, nephew Jeff (Darcy) Kamer, and many dear friends.

Jack’s family will receive visitors from 4pm to 6pm Wednesday, Dec.13th at Schoedinger Midtown, 229 E. State St., 43215. A memorial service will take place from 11am to 12 noon Thursday, Dec.14th at Peace Lutheran Church, 455 Clark State Rd. 43230.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jack’s name may be made to BalletMet (www.balletmet.org) or to Kobacker House Hospice through ohiohealth.com.