Jack Thomas Steenbarger

Jack Thomas Steenbarger was a world shaker. He started with precious little, and ended his life with more than even he could imagine. He was a husband, a father, a businessman, a political figure, an avid yachtsman and a spirited human being. He could be sharp and opinionated, and he could be tender and loving. He wore a suit or armor, never showing his weakness or sorrows.

His mother died when Jack was only was 15 years of age and at 17 he entered the military and witnessed the aftermath of WW2 in Berlin, Germany.

Jack met his first wife, Constance Rubinstein in Michigan and they married in 1953. They had two sons, Brett and Marc.

While his business ventures grew, so did his political presence in Canton, Ohio. He became the head of the Democratic Party in Stark, Ohio and helped to elect the first Democratic Mayor in over 20 years dethroning the political machine that had run for decades.

While many took notice of his business acumen and powerful personality many did notice his softer side. Jack had a wonderful sense of humor that delighted in telling and laughing at jokes.

Jack next turned his sights on radio stations and purchased an AM/FM station in Canton. He would go on to own other radio properties in Flint, Michigan and Binghamton, New York.

In 2007 Jack met Susan Benson-Molnar. They married two years later and moved to Lakewood Ranch, Florida and have both been very involved with local causes, charities and organizations.

Jack was a member of Temple Emanu-El, Temple Beth Sholom and Chabad of Lakewood Ranch. He was a Board Member for The Asolo Theater, Jewish Federation, Aviva and on the Board of The Glenridge as President Representative for the residents. He was a donor of the Sarasota Symphony, the Sarasota Ballet and the Harvest House, feeding the homeless which was very close to his heart.

Preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary, first wife, Constance, and siblings, Helen Field and Todd Steenbarger, Jack is survived by his wife, Susan Benson-Molnar; two sons, Brett and Marc, grandchildren, McCrae and Devon, daughter in law, Marjorie and former daughter in law, Lisa.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, March 31, 2023 at 11:30 am at Temple Emanu-El, 151 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota.

Memorial donations in Jack’s memory may be made to the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, Harvest House or charity of your choice.

Jack and his precious wife Susi lead a full and vibrant life together.

Condolences may be shared at www.rtsfunerals.com.