I first met Jack in Aug 1973 when I reported to AFSC, they had put a name tag on my desk that read Sergeant Schultz and one on his desk that read Col Klink.  And that is how it was to be for  the next 41 years.  I saw below where others did he was a mentor to them,well he mentored me as well, he took me from Ssgt to CMSgt, more importantly he saved my life. There were things he would say to me that I carry with me today,"John not everybody is a 9",but he was--and that when he retired from AD the highest grade was TSgt.  I know he has been reunited with nis Beloved Rose.

John:  While I did not have the pleasure of knowing your Dad, my heart goes out to you and your family on your loss.  We are seeing the impact of Alzheimer's in our own family of late, and truly can sympathize.  Accordingly, and as per your guidance, a contribution to the Alzheimer's Assoc is being made in Jack's memory.  Deep condolences, Al Danza

It was an honor to serve with Jack and to call him a friend for over 25 years.  
We should all be so lucky to have the respect of so many as he did.  One of my best memories was officiating his retirement from civil service and highlighting his distinguished career.  Rest in peace my friend.

My sincere condolences to the family.  I worked with Jack at  AFSC, Andrews AFB for a number of years., but lost touch with him when  I  moved  and changed  jobs. A friend told  me he  was living in Odenton, not far from me, and in fact, within walking distance.  I  made contact with Jack and along with another co-worker and his wife, would get  together  and have lunch.  We would  sit afterwards just reminiscing about our lives. Jack was always smiling and would talk to everyone.  He was the  type  of  person that you could feel comfortable being around.  We will all miss him but I know all of us has that special rememberance of him.  Jack, your journey  has ended, rest in peace.  God Bless You.

Loretta (Rocky) Rocko

I am so very sorry for your loss Cheryl and John... My thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your families. May God bring you peace during this difficult time.

Working for Jack was a true honor and a highlight of my 30 years in the Air Force. He was a true friend and gentleman of honor and possessed such an immense knowledge of military personnel. He was my mentor and the world will miss him. I know I will. The world is less bright with his passing.
Chief Hank Calloway

Cheryl,
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We know what a wonderful man your dad was and what a wonderful daughter you were.
Blessings, Flo and Jim DePolo

I met Jack during the late 1970s while serving as the Superintendant of Social Actions, Air Force Systems Command, Andrews AFB, MD.  Jack's office was very near mine and he was a close friend and fellow golfer of my boss, Kevin Bergen.  As a result, I got to know and respect Jack in a way reserved for very special people.

Jack seemed to always be in a help mode no matter the circumstances or the race, sex, or ethnicity of a person.  He was a man's man and a true professional.  In 1980, I was honored when he took time from his busy schedule to attend my retirement from active duty.  

My sympathy and prayers go out to his family and loved ones!

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family of Jack. I had the pleasure of knowing Jack while he was at Charlestown. He shared many stories about his family and friends with us as well as his proud service while in the Air Force. He spoke of his love of gulf and listening to his favorite band, which I think was called, Hokey Joe and the (?) Fat Dutchman. His face lit up when talking about his family. When we would ask how he was doing, he would reply, "I'm the luckiest s-b on earth". I would think, "wow, what a great attitude". My sincere hope is that the pain and sorrow you now feel will soon be replaced by warm memories of happy times spent with Jack.

I was the one of many young Lieutenants in the Air Force who owe their success due to the mentorship and personal example of Jack Reckner.  During the late 70s and 80s, he never ceased to take the time to show me what was right, but also teach why it was right.  He was there when you needed guidance, a nonjudgmental ear, and to give that encouragement just when you needed that push.  I watched and learned as he engaged with people of all walks of life -- lessons from a master.  He truly made a difference in my life--and his laugh is one I still hear to this day.  With deep sorrow for this loss, but also with deep gratitude for having known him.

I served with Jack in our Air Force in the late 1970s and 1980s.  I was a young second lieutenant and Jack was my friend and greatest mentor.   He was always there with sound advice, strong support, and an unfailing friendship.  And, I was but one of scores of young officers and NCOs who were made much better because of Jack.  He steered us all around many of the pitfalls we faced as young professionals -- and he did it in a genuinely caring manner.  His smile and amazing sense of humor brought us all through some tough times; and even today I smile when I recall many of the fond memories I have of Jack. I am deeply saddened by his passing and I will cherish everything he taught me.  Jack was truly someone very, very special.

I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad, Cheryl.   Even at our age it makes you feel like an orphan after both of your parents have gone.  Remember all the good times and what a wonderful Dad he was.

Goodby kind sir; you were like my second Father, you taught me that golf was a gentleman's game. And you lived your life like a true Genleman.  So many fond memories I have of you & Rose, and I sit here I can't help but cry.  One story I can post here goes like this.  My first round of golf was at Andrews Air Force Base West Course; first tee Par 4 400 yards slight dog leg left, out of bounds all along the right side. I smash my 1st tee shot 250 yards to the right and my 2nd and my 3rd, and you guess it all Out of bounds. I took a 13!!!! On my very first hole of golf.  I remember Mr. Reckner saying in that comforting voice as we left the green..... "Don't worry Steve it will get better. You see golf is like life, you take the good with the bad then you move on. Look there is the 2nd hole!!" How true that statement is, and I've kept it in my heart all my life. You will be sadly missed here, but I'm sure God needs a 4th and he has called you to the Tee.  Rest in pease Pops Reckner.

OBITUARY

John Jack Henry Reckner

April 19, 1929 – January 15, 2015

Witzke Funeral Homes Inc.

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