Jack was a graduate of F. J. Reitz High School and North High School Mechanic Arts. He enlisted and served in the U.S. Air Force being stationed two years in Japan. He returned to the states and married his childhood neighbor and high school sweetheart, Linda Jones. The two immediately began a family. Jack was always a very hard worker even before his graduation and military service. He would bicycle several miles to work in a grocery store. Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Jack was employed by U.S. Sheet Metal. He later began work as a maintenance mechanic at the Aluminum Company of America in Newburgh, IN. Jack would often work 7 days a week to support his growing family. Even though he put in many hours at ALCOA, Jack always had time for family whether he was working on family cars, playing basketball and baseball with his children and grandchildren, building a high jump set, making homemade ice cream, grilling burgers or steaks, camping, fishing, or family vacations; he made time for fun too. After 29 years at ALCOA Jack retired and enjoyed his new leisure time tending his vegetable and flower gardens and caring for his aging parents. Jack was a talented woodworker making beautiful chiming clocks, lamps, wood inlay pictures, antique cars, furniture, toys, and desks for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jack was a quiet person but could surprise you with a comment or action that would have us laughing. Jack and his friend, Judy Knight, have glided gracefully across many a dance floor.
Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Hartig. He is survived by his children: Michele Vanhooser (David), Jacqueline Hickrod (Todd), Gary D. Hartig (Gina), grandchildren: Jennifer Scott (Ryan), Stephen Vanhooser (Laurel), Jordan Williams (Jake), Krista Kercher (John), Garrett Hartig (Monica), and three (soon to be four) great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the Deaconess physicians, nurses, techs, and support staff for their knowledge, skill, compassion, and care of Jack during his last several months.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 20, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Alexander Memorial Park, 2200 Mesker Park Dr., Evansville, IN with Rev. Terry Gamblin officiating, and entombment in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center, 3701 Bellemeade Avenue, Evansville, IN 47714 and the Vanderburgh Humane Society, P.O. Box 6711, Evansville, IN, 47719. Condolences may be made online at AlexanderNorthChapel.com.
