Jack Vaccaro

Vaccaro, Jack of Cudahy, died unexpectedly on Monday, March 4 at his vacation home in Sun City West, AZ. He was 75. His beloved wife of more than 50 years, Sharon (nee Hayden), was at his side, as she always was, at the time of his passing. Jack was the father of two sons, Michael (Theresa) and Daniel (Dawn); proud grandfather of Anna Maria, Cecelia, Dominic, Carson, and Catherine; brother of Jacquelyn Hinkle; and brother-in-law of Don Hinkle. Jack is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Jack was born April 23, 1937 in Cudahy, Wisconsin, where he remained a lifelong resident. After graduating from Cudahy High School in 1955 and Marquette University in 1959, Jack began his career as a teacher for the Milwaukee Public Schools. He taught math and business education for more than 13 years, primarily at Walker Junior High School on Milwaukee’s south side. In 1966, with his life-long friend Fred Mueller of Bay View, Jack co-founded Jack Frederick’s Hairdressers, a chain of 12 hair salons throughout Milwaukee County. After 40 years of business, Jack retired and began a third career in public service in Cudahy as the city's Economic Development Coordinator. He served on the Library Board and volunteered with many community organizations. Jack was named Business Person of the Year in 1998 by the Cudahy Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Peoples Credit Union. Truly proud of his Italian heritage, Jack and his sister Jacquelyn, in honor of their parents Jasper and Josephine Vaccaro (nee Tomaro), also provided support to the establishment of Milwaukee’s Italian Community Center.

Jack enjoyed bowling, golf, fishing in International Falls, MN, Italian music, and working with his hands as an artist in clay in the sunshine of Arizona during the winter months. Most of all, Jack enjoyed spending time with family and friends celebrating life, while sipping a Brandy Manhattan and expressing strong opinions. He will be eternally remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend; for being generous, honorable and always bringing out the best in others.

Visitation will be 4 to 7 pm, Sunday, March 10 at the funeral home and Monday from 10 am until Mass at 11 a.m. at Nativity of the Lord Catholic Church, 3672 E. Plankinton Ave, Cudahy. Memorials to the Cudahy Historical Society or Cudahy charitable organization of your choosing. Entombment Holy Sepulcher Cemetery.